The buzz is building as the Pollinator Tournament Finals are officially underway. On Thursday, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Yates County announced the two finalists in this year’s bracket-style competition: Nason’s Miner Bee, known as the “Pollination Powerhouse,” and the Violet Miner Bee, nicknamed the “Spring Swing.”
The 4th Annual Yates County Pollinator Tournament, which launched on June 4th in celebration of National Pollinator Month, invites the public to vote for their favorite native bee. Modeled after March Madness and inspired by the National Park Service’s popular “Fat Bear Week,” the event highlights the essential role of pollinators in agriculture and ecosystems.
This year’s tournament features bees exclusively from the Andrena genus, also known as mining bees—solitary pollinators critical to the health of wildflowers, shrubs, and trees throughout New York and North America.
“These bees may be small, but they’re mighty when it comes to pollination,” said organizers. “Through this fun, competitive format, we hope to engage the community and spread awareness about the vital role pollinators play in our environment and food systems.”
The champion will be crowned Yates County’s Pollinator of the Year, but only one can take the title. Community members are encouraged to cast their final votes online.
To learn more about the finalists and vote in the tournament, click here.
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