![The decline of the number of bees is a great concern that can potentially pose a great risk to California. [Source: Andy Duback/Associated Press]](http://www.jstudentboard.com/reporter/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/8-23-beedecline.jpg)
[Source: Andy Duback/Associated Press]
As bees are crucial to the production of the fruits and vegetables that we eat, this rapid decline poses a great risk to the human species. According to University of California Davis, bees pollinate about a third of all of the food that people eat. Wildlife is also affected by the decline because bees are responsible for pollinating wild plants that provide habitat and food for other animals.
There are many different factors contributing to the decline of the bee populations, such as climate change and diseases. However, multiple studies have confirmed that there exists a strong correlation between the use of herbicide and the death of bees.
Tomasz Kiljanek, lead author from the National Veterinary Research Institute in Poland, explained the how herbicides can affect bee populations in a press statement: “Even at very low levels, pesticides can weaken bees’ defense systems, allowing parasites or viruses to kill the colony,” said Kiljanek.
Although herbicides remain a large concern to the survival of bee populations, there are ways in which people can help by making their gardens bee-friendly. Leaving seed balls of clay, wildflower seeds, chili powder, and compost can help to attract bees to gardens. Avoiding treatments on grass and flowers can also help to encourage honey bees to thrive.
