Cost: Free
Imagine a world without vibrant blooms, flourishing crops, or thriving wildlife. That’s the reality we face without pollinators—the tiny but mighty creatures essential to life on Earth. On Saturday, February 15, you’re invited to the Mule at Devil’s Foot Brewery in Asheville to celebrate these unsung heroes and explore how we can all play a part in their conservation.
From the moment you step through the doors, you’ll be immersed in a community united by a passion for biodiversity, native plants, and protecting pollinators. Whether you’re a seasoned environmentalist or just beginning to appreciate the beauty of bees, butterflies, and beyond, this event offers something for everyone.
Come early to explore exhibitor tables filled with resources, tips, and tools to make your garden, neighborhood, or community a haven for pollinators. Grab a bite or a beverage, connect with like-minded attendees, and soak up the buzz of excitement.
Pollinators are more than just insects; they’re the foundation of ecosystems and essential to our survival. Yet, nearly half of them are at risk of extinction. That’s why Bee City USA, founded here in Asheville, has grown to a nationwide movement of 431 affiliates, all dedicated to safeguarding these vital creatures.
This isn’t just another event—it’s a call to action, a chance to learn, connect, and make a tangible impact on the future of our planet.
THE SCHEDULE—60 MINUTES: 6 PRESENTATIONS
12:00 PM Doors open for networking and visiting exhibitors. Relax and grab a beverage or lunch from the food truck!
1:00 PM. The formal program of 10-minute presentations begins:
1.Bill Jones, Owner, Carolina Native Nursery—How the Southeast's Largest Supplier of Native Shrubs Is Recovering From Helene
2. Ruth Gonzalez, Member, Bee City USA-Asheville Leadership Committee—The Asheville Butterfly Trail Is Taking Flight!
3. Dr. Jennifer Geib, Associate Professor, Biology Department, Appalachian State University— Pollinators in Peril: How Climate Change Is Shifting the Buzz
4. Emily Sampson, Owner, Patchwork Meadows—Landscaping Tips Post-Helene
5. Hannah Coats, Land Resources Manager & Elijah Charette, Stewardship Coordinator, RiverLink—Best Natives for Replanting Streambanks & Floodplains
6. Keith Aitken, Urban Forester, City of Asheville—A Brighter Future for Asheville’s Tree Canopy
2:00—3:00 pm Visit speakers and other exhibitors at their tables.
Whether you’re passionate about gardening, fascinated by biodiversity, or simply curious about how to help, this is your opportunity to join the movement. Together, let’s create a world where pollinators—and all life—can thrive. We can’t wait to see you there!
Enjoy the video of the 2024 Great Buzz Gathering.
Photo of bumble bee by Courtland White
