Learn to raise Mason Bees

On February 6, Billie Bevers, Washington State University Master Gardener, will discuss the skills needed for raising Mason Bees. Orchard Mason Bees are highly effective pollinators that are very non-aggressive. They become active in early spring when apple and pear trees begin flowering.

The class will be offered at 9 a.m., and repeated at 1 p.m. The 2-hour class covers equipment, seasonal management, bee biology and management of pests. Cost for the course is $30 per person. Participants will receive a Mason Bee house and cocoons of hibernating Mason Bees.

The program, sponsored by Washington State University Extension, will be held at the Cowlitz County Training Center, 1942 First Avenue in Longview.

Class registration is due by February 3. Each class registration is limited to 30 people. For more information or to register, contact Gary Fredricks at 577-3014 Ext 3 or garyf@wsu.edu.