This is a pilot of hopefully a larger project spearheaded by Megan Wannarka, an independent researcher and beekeeper based in Minnesota, United States. Her past work as a Peace Corps volunteer in West Africa and the Carribbean allowed her to work first hand with farmers there to better understand their needs for appropriate technologies. For example, a simple plant identification manual for beekeepers, farmers and stake holders to understand which plants are beneficial for honey bees in the region.
Hawaiian language is decreasing on the islands; capturing local common names of plants that are useful for honeybees and creating a small hand held spiral bound laminated identification manual showing with examples of the bloom, seeds and fruit along with symbols identifying if the plant is a nectar, pollen or propolis source.
This guide is to be used by partners on the ground in Hawaii to capture local names of plants. Capturing the local common names in as many languages as possible increases the usage of a printed document in the hands of locals.
Background of plant list: Through literature review and research documenting nectar, pollen, and propolis sources from world sources (i.e. Eva Crane) to location specific plants, trees and shrubs. If given bloom calendar information was provided also documented. Ongoing research into this topic of plant sources of honey, pollen, propolis, and honeydew for bees is important to educate public, farmers, and government in conserve, create and increase honey bee habitat. Through identification, seeds can be saved, cuttings taken and education on how to best propagate for location specific uses. Partnering with INaturalist allows local common names and bloom calendar to be captured and will vary based on region, usage and language needs to be taken into consideration.
Sources:
Ley, E., Buchman, S., Kauffman, G., Jacobsen, O., Rager, M., Kwong, L., & Wojcik, V. (2007). Selecting Plants for Pollinators: A Regional Guide for Farmers, Land Managers and Gardeners in the Hawaiin Island Province. San Francisco, CA: North American Pollinator Protection Campaign and The Pollinator Partnership.
Kuck, L. E., & Tongg, R. C. (1965). Hawaiian flowers & flowering trees
Department of Agriculture. (2018). “Hawaii” State Search Results | USDA PLANTS. Retrieved January 8, 2018, from https://plants.usda.gov/java/stateSearch
Further questions can be sent to Megan Wannarka at m.wannarka@gmail.com
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