parasites carried by "commercial" bumble bees

A report from the National Academies on the Status of Pollinators
in North America says:

"One possible cause of decline in native bumble bees appears to be introduced parasites carried by bumble bees imported from Europe for greenhouse pollination. These bees frequently harbor disease organisms and their escape from greenhouses can lead to pathogen spillover into native species."

Read a summary here.

This is especially relevant in SE Michigan, because one of the world's largest commercial bee producers has a large operation in Romulus.

Koppert Biological, Inc. is a subsidiary of Koppert Biological Systems BV.

Rain Garden planted on May 10

Volunteers and NAP staff built a rain garden at the Mary Beth Doyle Park and Wetland Preserve on May 10, 2008.

The new new rain garden is near the Packard entrance. It will capture storm water that runs off the small parking lot, and channel it to a basin that contains native plants with deep roots.

The new plants will increase diversity and attract birds and butterflies.

This sunny area is a pleasant contrast to the woods south of Mallets Creek where shade-loving flowers are thriving.