Dave Hunter, founder of Crown Bees, is a leading advocate for solitary bee conservation and sustainable pollination. With nearly two decades of expertise in mason and leafcutter bee management, he has revolutionized how gardeners and farmers approach pollination, emphasizing the critical role of solitary bees in food production and biodiversity.
Recognizing that honey bees alone cannot meet increasing agricultural demands, Dave promotes solitary bees as an efficient, low-maintenance alternative. He shares his research-backed insights through national articles, educational programs, and his book Mason Bee Revolution: How the Hardest Working Bee Can Save the World—One Backyard at a Time, which provides practical guidance on raising and protecting these essential pollinators.
To further solitary bee adoption in agriculture, he founded the Orchard Bee Association, connecting researchers, industry leaders, and conservationists to advance pollinator science. Through Crown Bees, Dave has developed bee-safe nesting materials, regional bee programs, and educational resources that empower individuals and communities to sustain healthy bee populations.
His work has led to breakthroughs in bee management, raised awareness about pollinator decline, and promoted sustainable solutions that benefit food production. Collaborating with universities, government agencies, and environmental organizations, Dave actively supports pollinator research and has become a respected voice in conservation.
Through his dedication, Dave continues to inspire individuals and institutions to think beyond honey bees and embrace a more resilient future for pollinators and the planet.