by Trey Lamkins, Landscape Operations, Kimmel Education and Research Center
This summer, three pollinator species listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™, the Southern Plains Bumble Bee (Bombus fraternus), American Bumble Bee (Bombus pensylvanicus), and the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) were documented among the blooms at Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard in Nebraska City. Their presence is more than a lucky sighting. It’s a testament to what’s possible when habitat restoration and native plantings come together with care and intention.
What Is the IUCN Red List?
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global leader in assessing the health of our planet’s biodiversity. One of its key tools is the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™, which categorizes species based on their risk of extinction, from Least Concern to Critically Endangered.
These classifications inform conservation priorities and inspire action across the globe. Recognizing which species are at risk helps land managers, scientists, educators, and community members take meaningful steps to protect them.
Why This Matters
Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard is doing more than just growing produce. Its pollinator habitat, certified through the Nebraska Pollinator Habitat Program, is nurturing biodiversity, providing vital resources for at-risk species, and sharing a tangible conservation story with every visitor.
Whether you’re here for fruit, donuts, or an educational tour, keep and eye out as you might just spot a rare bumble bee or migrating monarch flying through the landscape. These moments remind us of the powerful intersection between agriculture, ecology, and stewardship.
Southern Plains Bumble Bee: A Glimpse of the Endangered
Status: Endangered
One of the most exciting discoveries so far this summer has been the Southern Plains Bumble Bee (Bombus fraternus), currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Native to the central and eastern U.S., including Nebraska, this bee now occupies just 27% of its former range, with abundance levels down to 14.4% of what they once were.
The main driver of its decline? Habitat loss, especially from widespread land and pesticide use. But at Kimmel, this species has found refuge. Native plant species such as Monarda, Echinacea, Asclepias, and Solidago which provide essential nectar and nesting sites. Their presence speaks to the success of Kimmel’s intentional land stewardship.
American Bumble Bee: A Disappearing Icon of the Prairie
Status: Vulnerable
Once the most common bumble bee across the U.S., the American Bumble Bee (Bombus pensylvanicus) has seen extreme population declines, especially in the Midwest and southern Great Plains. Today, it is considered Vulnerable, with conservationists closely monitoring its remaining population.
The bee’s appearance at Kimmel is a hopeful sign. It prefers open habitats and grasslands, and thrive where native wildflowers like goldenrod (Solidago) and bee balm (Monarda) are abundant. Kimmel’s plant diversity creates a supportive environment for this struggling species.
Want to help? Report your sightings to Bumble Bee Watch or take part in Nebraska’s Bumble Bee Atlas.
Your photos can contribute to national conservation efforts!
Monarch Butterfly: The Icon of Migration
Status: Steep Population Decline in North America but classified as Least Concern globally
Also documented here so far this summer is the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus). Though listed as Least Concern globally, North America’s migratory monarch butterfly populations have dropped more than 80% in recent decades. At Kimmel, we’ve been thrilled to spot monarchs fluttering across the property and in our double certified Nebraska Pollinator Habitat and Monarch Waystation.
Monarchs lay their eggs exclusively on milkweed, and their caterpillars depend on it to survive. Our efforts, including intentional milkweed plantings, pollinator supporting native plants, and limited pesticide use, support this majestic species as it migrates between Mexico and Canada.
Want to help track migration and population? Submit your sightings through Journey North or plant your own Monarch Waystation.
Click Here to read more about Monarchs at Kimmel!
Get Involved: Join Us This July!
Pollinator Workshop | July 16th | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard
Join us to learn how to support pollinators, select native plants, and create thriving habitat in your own backyard. The workshop will feature educational sessions, youth activities, and a UNL Bee tour. Perfect for families, educators, gardeners, and anyone who care about conservation.
Register here: Pollinator Workshop RSVP
Together, we can make a difference, one monarch, one bumble bee, one native plant at a time, we reaffirm our role as caretakers of this place. In the words of Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer: “Action on behalf of life transforms…As we work to heal the earth, the earth heals us.”
Key Sources
- Bumble Bee Atlas
- Bumble Bee Watch
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
- Journey North
- Monarch Watch
- Nebraska's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources - Nebraska Pollinator Habitat Certification
- The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation