Indiana University designated Bee Campus USA Certification for pollinator conservation efforts

Indiana University’s campuses have become affiliates of the Bee Campus USA program, recognizing IU's commitment to creating a sustainable environment for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. This certification, administered by the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, highlights IU’s efforts to support pollinators by providing them with healthy habitats, rich in a variety of native plants. 

Spring 2025 marks IU Bloomington’s inaugural Bee Campus USA designation, while IU Indianapolis renewed its annual certification that was first designated in 2017. Additionally, IU Kokomo received its inaugural certification in 2022. Key initiatives that contributed to the certification include the planting of pollinator-friendly native species, the reduction of pesticide use, and the integration of pollinator education into campus life, workshops, and student engagement programs. 

Native plantings, apiaries, and rain gardens all contribute to the habitats that support pollinators. IU Bloomington’s submission was led by Sustainable Landscapes intern, Rayan Duffy. About her experience, Rayan says: “Working on the Bee Campus USA certification was a truly meaningful experience. It gave me the chance to contribute to a tangible, campus-wide initiative that supports pollinator health and biodiversity. As a student, it was empowering to be part of something that not only benefits the environment but also brings the campus community together around sustainability.” 

According to Bee Campus USA coordinator Laura Rost, “How each campus completes the steps to conserve pollinators is up to them,” said Rost. “Affiliates play to their own strengths, designing pesticide reduction plans, improving habitats, and holding events ranging from garden tours to native plant giveaways to bee trivia nights. Each campus must renew their affiliation each year and report on accomplishments from the previous year.” A required element of the Bee Campus affiliation is convening a committee that plans and implements initiatives that support the Bee Campus goals. To follow the progress of the IU Bee Campus committees, subscribe to the monthly sustainability newsletters. 

For information about four simple ways to help pollinators, visit https://xerces.org/bringbackthepollinators/