Pollinators, such as bees, birds, butterflies, bats and insects play a crucial role in the production of most fruits and vegetables. They also support healthy ecosystems that clean the air, stabilize soils and support wildlife. Studies show that pollinator populations are in decline because of a loss of feeding and nesting habitats, pollution and the misuse of pesticides. In this 6-week course, learn how to protect our agricultural economy and food supply with the Master Pollinator Steward program.

Session topics include an insect overview, plant-pollinator relationships, honey bees, native bees and other pollinators, and pollinators in nature and agriculture. This course qualifies as Advanced Training for Extension Master Gardeners and Missouri Master Naturalists.

When: Thursdays, 10-noon starting April 6

Where: Lecture presentations are via Zoom with other sites in Missouri, field trips/lab sessions are local and in-person. If more than one person from a site is registered, I would encourage you to meet at your county MU Extension center to participate in the classes. We will meet in the basement meeting room of the Extension office in Kirksville for anyone wanting to watch the classes with others, and have discussion afterwards. 

Schedule:

• April 6 - Insects overview

• April 13 - Plant-pollinator interactions

• April 20 - Honey bees 

• April 27 - Native bees and other pollinators

• May 4 - Pollinators in nature and agriculture, part 1 

• May 11 - Pollinators in nature and agriculture, part 2

In-person lab classes will be held in Kirksville on the following dates: September 7, 14, 21, 28

We will visit a prairie and gardens during these classes. You are strongly encouraged to participate in all classes.

Registration is online. A Zoom link will be sent at a later date to those who are registered for the course. 

Cost: $100

Contact: Jennifer Schutter, schutterjl@missouri.edu(opens in new window), 660-665-9866

Sessions (10 AM - 12 PM)