The Metro: Nonprofit Detroit Hives turning vacant lots into an oasis for pollinators, residents

By: Jack Filbrandt

5 May 2025 at 20:54

Bees’ pollinating presence helps to ensure the vitality of our food systems.

The work of bees isn’t just happening in fields of wildflowers or quiet suburban gardens. Bees in urban neighborhoods also have an important role to play.

The nonprofit Detroit Hives has turned vacant lots into thriving pollinator habitats and community green spaces. That work includes planting pollinator-friendly trees in neighborhoods that need canopy, beauty and biodiversity. One of the group’s recent projects was at the Finney Community Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which they hope to transform into a thriving community space for pollinators and residents alike.

Detroit Hives Co-founders Tim Paule Jackson and Nicole Lindsey joined The Metro on Monday to discuss their work.

–Segment produced by WDET’s Amanda Le Claire.

Use the media player above to hear the full conversation.

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