Seeds for Bees
Promoting pollinator-friendly plantings across Madera County for a healthier ecosystem.
Cover Crops for Pollinator Health
Seeds for Bees encourages the use of cover crops to increase the density, diversity, and duration of bee forage in California orchards, farms, and vineyards, while improving soil health.
The program provides financial incentives, technical guidance, and support for establishing cover crops that benefit both pollinators and agricultural operations. Enrollment is open from June 15 through November 15 each year.
Program Features
- Enhanced bee nutrition during forage-scarce seasons
- Improved soil health and water infiltration
- Reduced erosion and natural weed control
- Stronger hives and better pollination
- Financial incentives for seed purchases
- Free shipping for all enrollees
Benefits of Pollinator Habitat
Pollinator-friendly plantings deliver environmental, agricultural, and community benefits across Madera County.
Pollinator Support
Establish habitats that provide food and shelter for bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators throughout the growing season.
Biodiversity
Diverse plantings enhance local biodiversity, creating resilient ecosystems that benefit agriculture and natural landscapes alike.
Crop Productivity
Healthy pollinator populations directly boost crop yields and quality for farmers across the San Joaquin Valley.
Community Health
Pollinator-friendly plantings improve environmental health, beautify communities, and create educational opportunities.
Enrollment & Financial Incentives
Join Seeds for Bees and receive discounts on cover crop seed purchases plus free shipping.
Eligibility
- Reside in California
- Grow bee-pollinated crops (nuts, fruits, seed production)
- Wind-pollinated crop growers may qualify with additional information
- Complete online application
- Submit 2 photos annually and complete a short survey
- Complete phone consultation with program manager
Financial Incentives
$2,000
Discount on seed purchases for 1st year enrollees
$1,000
Discount on seed purchases for 2nd year enrollees
Free shipping for all enrollees
Enrollment Period
June 15 — November 15
Annual enrollment window
Contact program manager Billy Synk to learn more about enrollment and how cover crops can benefit your operation.
Apply to EnrollProgram in Action
See the impact of pollinator-friendly plantings across Madera County.
Planting Guidelines
Follow these guidelines to establish successful pollinator habitats on your property.
Site Selection
Choose sunny, well-drained locations near agricultural fields or gardens where pollinators can easily access blooming plants.
Plant Selection
Select native and adapted plant species that provide continuous bloom throughout the growing season for diverse pollinator needs.
Habitat Maintenance
Maintain plantings with minimal chemical inputs, allowing natural processes to support a thriving pollinator community.
Record Keeping
Track plantings, species, and pollinator activity to measure success and contribute to regional conservation data.
Help Pollinators Thrive in Madera County
Join the Seeds for Bees program and be part of the solution for pollinator conservation. Establish cover crops that support bee health, improve soil quality, and boost your crop yields—all with financial incentives. Our WCB Pollinator Program complements this effort with native habitat restoration.
$2,000
1st year seed discount
June–Nov
Annual enrollment window
Soil Health
Improved water infiltration
Stronger Hives
Better crop pollination
Plant Seeds for a Better Future
Support pollinator conservation in Madera County through the Seeds for Bees program.