SAVANNAH, Ga. () — The city of Savannah has officially joined the national network of “Bee City USA” communities. This designation reflects Savannah’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, urban biodiversity and environmental stewardship.  

To celebrate the designation, Bee City Savannah will host its inaugural Pollinator Palooza, a citywide celebration, during National Pollinator Week which runs June 16 through 22. The week will conclude with a free community festival on Saturday, June 21, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Daffin Park.  

Pollinator Palooza will feature educational workshops, garden installations, pollinator-inspired menus at local restaurants, youth activities, public art and a community science initiative, all highlighting the critical role pollinators play in local ecosystems.  

Savannah has partnered with the Foster Beelief Foundation and BEEnevolent, led by community advocate Sade Shofidiya. Other community partners include Savannah Bee Company, Fruitful Futures, Common Thread, Flora & Fauna, Freedom Fellowship Church, The Beach Institute, Keevy’s Beevies and Good Clean Fun.  

The Savannah Pollinator Preservation Committee has been designated as the facilitating body for Bee City Savannah. You are encouraged to get involved by attending meetings, volunteering and supporting pollinator-friendly efforts across the city.  

What is Bee City USA?

Bee City USA is an initiative of the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. The program provides a framework for municipalities to improve pollinator habitat through native plantings, pesticide reduction and community engagement. In 2023 alone, U.S. beekeepers reported nearly a 48% loss of managed honeybee colonies, underscoring the need for coordinated action to protect these critical species.