In 2017 the Franklin County Beekeepers Association inaugurated its annual “Bee Space” award as a way of both identifying and celebrating pollinator gardens around Franklin county. This award annually honors Lorenzo Langstroth, considered to be the founder of modern beekeeping, and who in the mid-1840s was pastor of the Second Congregational Church in Greenfield.

"The glory of gardening: hands in the soil, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul."
adapted from Alfred Austin

FCBA welcomes your entry in our Bee Spaces Pollinator Garden contest. The application process is now open for next spring. Gardens should be in either Franklin or Hampshire counties. Judging will go on throughout the spring and summer months so submit your application now and include the best time for our judges to review your pollinator garden. We will contact you and arrange a convenient time to visit.

The Bee Space award is a beautiful ceramic and wood plaque that is meant to be displayed on the front of your home or business showing that you care about our pollinators.

Hungry Ghost Bakery Hungry Ghost Bakery in Northampton is a winner of the 2025 Pollinator Garden Awards. Owners Cheryl and Jonathan are deeply committed to environmental issues, using both their business and home spaces to create pollinator-friendly gardens. They advocate for better food practices, sustainable agriculture, and the protection of nature.

Greenfield Savings Bank, located in Greenfield, is also a winner of the 2025 Pollinator Garden Awards. Garden Facilities Manager Jack Chase oversees eight locations across Franklin County, which are recognized and appreciated by both residents and visitors. This award honors the bank’s ongoing efforts to create pollinator habitats within its corporate greenspace. The beautiful variety of plants and the impressive number of pollinators attracted to these gardens have made a significant impact.

 Franklin County Beekeepers cannot think of better examples to honor with our Bee Space award.

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