Celebrating Nature's Firsts: Fairfield Resident Wins Prestigious First-Bumble-Bee-of-the-Year Contest
In a delightful start to the new year, Nancy Hansen, a resident of Fairfield, clinched victory in the 4th annual Robbin Thorp Memorial First-Bumble-Bee-of-the-Year Contest. The competition, held in honor of the late Robbin Thorp, a distinguished expert on bees, encourages participants to capture the first bumblebee sighting of the year. Hansen's video featuring a black-tailed bumblebee secured her place as the earliest recipient of this esteemed recognition.
A Winning Moment Captured: Black-Tailed Bumblebee Graces Madrone Tree
Hansen's winning video, showcasing a black-tailed bumblebee, Bombus melanopygus, was submitted to the Bohart Museum of Entomology. Filmed at 10:57 a.m. in her backyard near a madrone tree (Arbutus menziesii), the footage captures a moment of natural beauty and biodiversity.
Contest coordinator Lynn Kimsey, UC Davis distinguished professor of entomology, expressed her appreciation for Hansen's achievement. Hansen not only claimed the title of the earliest-ever recipient but also marked the first winner from Solano County.
Commemorating a Legacy: Robbin Thorp's Advocacy for Bees
The annual contest serves as a tribute to Robbin Thorp, a UC Davis distinguished emeritus professor and a passionate advocate for pollinator species protection and conservation. Thorp's extensive contributions included monitoring the endangered Franklin's bumblebee, a species now feared extinct. The winner of the contest receives a coffee cup adorned with the image of the Franklin's bumblebee, symbolizing Thorp's lifelong dedication.
A Glimpse into Nature's Wonders: Hansen's Reflections
Sharing her enthusiasm, Hansen, a longtime gardener and nature enthusiast, reflected on her connection to the environment. "I've lived in Fairfield since 1970, and I'm a flower-aholic! I'm very interested in soil health, pollinators, and soil microbes," she stated. The winning moment was captured near her madrone tree, providing essential food for pollinators throughout the year.
Preserving Nature's Treasures: Robbin Thorp's Legacy Lives On
Robbin Thorp, who passed away in 2019, co-authored impactful books during his retirement, contributing significantly to bee identification and conservation. The First-Bumble-Bee-of-the-Year Contest stands as a testament to Thorp's passion for understanding and protecting pollinators. Thorp's legacy lives on through initiatives like these, encouraging communities to appreciate and safeguard the delicate balance of nature.
FAQ Additions:
Q: What is the significance of the Robbin Thorp Memorial First-Bumble-Bee-of-the-Year Contest? A: The contest, held annually, celebrates the first bumblebee sighting of the year and honors the legacy of Robbin Thorp, a distinguished expert on bees. Participants capture and submit photographs, with the winner receiving a coffee cup featuring the endangered Franklin's bumblebee, a species Thorp dedicated decades to monitoring.
Q: How does the contest contribute to environmental awareness and appreciation of biodiversity? A: The contest promotes environmental awareness by encouraging participants to observe and appreciate the first signs of bee activity each year. It highlights the importance of pollinators and biodiversity, fostering a connection between community members and the natural world.
Q: Why is Robbin Thorp remembered as a notable figure in bee conservation? A: Robbin Thorp, a UC Davis distinguished emeritus professor, was a tireless advocate for pollinator species protection and conservation. He monitored the endangered Franklin's bumblebee for decades, contributing significantly to bee identification and conservation. The contest serves as a tribute to his lasting legacy.
Q: What is the symbolism behind the coffee cup featuring the Franklin's bumblebee? A: The coffee cup awarded to the contest winner features the endangered Franklin's bumblebee, symbolizing Thorp's dedication to monitoring and protecting this species. It serves as a tangible reminder of the importance of preserving and appreciating the diversity of pollinators in our ecosystems.
Q: How can community members get involved in similar initiatives promoting nature appreciation? A: Community members interested in similar initiatives can explore local environmental organizations, nature clubs, or participate in citizen science programs. Initiatives like the First-Bumble-Bee-of-the-Year Contest provide opportunities for individuals to contribute to nature conservation and foster a sense of environmental stewardship.
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