Movie Night: The Pollinators

Movie night at the park generated BUZZ with the screening of "The Pollinators," a 2019 documentary that showcases the long journeys and hard work undertaken year-round by beekeepers and their hundreds of thousands of honeybees. Criss-crossing the United States in tractor trailers, honeybees pollinate crops starting with early season almonds in California, moving then north and east to pollinate cherries, peaches, apples, blueberries and any other flowering crop. Topics ranged from the impact of industrial farming, use of pesticides and herbicides, and the harm that many bees come to throughout their lives. "Bees are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat," and the fact that these vital pollinators are under threat was made clear during the film.

Community members from South Orange and surrounding communities discussed how the film was both distressing and hopeful. While Federal entities like the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Agriculture often work at cross-purposes, individuals can make impacts both small and large to safeguard the well-being of the bees, our food supply and environment. Plant native plants, demand organic produce from large retailers, write your state and federal legislators in support of increased oversite and regulation of harmful pesticides, buy directly from a local farm, and most important buy US made honey. The pollinators will thank you!