The Munising Hoop House project is trying to create a buzz by adding a new bee hive. The multi-tray hive box has already started, with the hive installed with honey and brood.

The hoop house already has some pollinator plants, so adding the bees will help the garden thrive. The hive comes from a local source, so the plants and the bees will both form a native, symbiotic relationship.

According to Hilary Ludecke, Munising Public Schools science teacher and organizer for the hoop house, the bees are just one step in creating a more stable growing environment.

“The plastic has been in for 10-plus years, so a strong wind will blow a hole in it. We have an overhead water system that can freeze easily, so it gets old and cracked,” she said. “We’re hoping that we can replace the plastic, replace the water system and have some seed money for composting and soil improvements.”

As part of the bee upgrades, the hoop house is running a donation drive to help with repairs. The Munising Rotary Club is matching up to $2,600.

The improvements can also help the hoop house join another established food supply program in Locally Integrated Food Teams of the U.P. (LIFT UP). The program allows schools to work with established agriculture specialists to grow a staple crop used in student meals. It’s been a successful program at Superior Central and Negaunee and could be financially beneficial to the school by qualifying for additional state and federal funding.

“The idea is to pair up with a local gardener or farmer who is already successful and grow food that will be healthier and available to the students,” Ludecke said. “If the kids eat fresher and healthier food, they will perform better in all aspects of life.”

Donations can be made to the school.

Workers moved a hive into the hoop house near Munising Middle/High School.