Gov. Mark Dayton has issued an executive order restricting uses of neonicotinoid pesticides to reverse the decline of bee and other pollinator populations.
A United Nations report released earlier this month says many species of bees, butterflies and other pollinators are shrinking towards extinction. Pollinator populations are also struggling across the state, including the forested areas of Central Minnesota.
Minnesota's plant seed industry is beginning to produce more wildflower seeds and a wider variety overall to address concerns over diminishing honey bee populations.