DETROIT – Detroit is full of vacant lots or empty parcels that many residents see as blight. But for one local nonprofit, those lots are opportunities: blank canvases that can become thriving spaces for people and pollinators.
Timothy and Nicole Lindsey Jackson, lifelong Detroiters and co-founders of Detroit Hives, are among a group leading a push to transform vacant land across the city into urban bee farms and community green spaces.
“A vacant lot is a blank canvas for what you want to imagine in that site with support for the community,” Timothy said.
Detroit Hives works with neighbors to convert underused parcels into places that bring ecological and social benefits. The group says adding pollinators — including bees — helps nearby gardens and food crops.
“Whenever you have beehives or pollinators nearby, you’re guaranteed to see an increase in your yield. So, if you’re growing certain crops of vegetation, having those pollinators, they pollinate fruit trees, nut trees, and many vegetables and herbs,” Timothy explained.
The latest project is at 9336 East Warren, where Detroit Hives is partnering with EarthDay.org to prepare the space for the proposed East Warren Community Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The plan calls for a diverse selection of Michigan native trees and a mix of seasonal perennials to support pollinators throughout the year.
“So, this is going to be a great spot for both people and pollinators,” Nicole added.
Organizers also plan walking paths so children and families can enjoy the space, creating a neighborhood asset out of a once-vacant lot.
Volunteers are needed to help complete the transformation.
“We’re seeking volunteers with no skills required. All ages. Just give us a helping hand. Pick up some trash here and there. And just help us clean up the sites,” Timothy said.
If you can help, show up at 9336 East Warren Avenue on Saturday, November 15th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers will help strip back old soil, clear trash, plant flowers, install bee homes and take part in other projects to ready the lot for planting.
For more information about the organizers, visit Detroit Hives at https://detroithives.org/about-us and www.earthday.org.,