Protecting Pollinators, Preserving Trees, and Supporting Our Kansas City Community
At Cartwright Tree Care, we’ve always believed that caring for trees means caring for everything that depends on them — from the birds that nest in their branches to the bees that pollinate the world around them.
That’s why we started our Bees in Trees Program, a unique partnership with local Kansas City beekeepers that helps safely relocate bee colonies found inside trees instead of destroying them.
It’s our way of giving back to both nature and the community — one hive at a time.
The Problem: When Bees Move Into Trees
Every spring and summer, our crews respond to calls about bees nesting in hollow trees or inside tree cavities. For many homeowners, that sight can feel a little alarming — and we get it. No one wants a swarm of bees near their home or family gatherings.
But here’s the thing: bees aren’t pests. They’re pollinators, and they’re absolutely vital to our ecosystem. In fact, nearly one-third of the food we eat depends on pollination from honeybees and native bees.
Unfortunately, traditional tree service companies often handle these situations by removing or exterminating the bees altogether. We decided years ago there had to be a better way.
The Solution: Partnering with Local Beekeepers
Instead of harming the bees, our team partners with certified local beekeepers across the Kansas City metro who specialize in live bee removal and relocation.
Here’s how it works:
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We assess the situation. When our arborists find bees living inside a tree, we carefully evaluate whether removal is necessary or if the bees can safely stay.
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We call our beekeeping partners. These experts arrive with specialized equipment to gently extract and relocate the colony — usually to a managed hive where they can continue to pollinate and produce honey safely.
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We preserve the tree. Once the bees are relocated, our team evaluates the cavity or damage inside the tree and performs any needed trimming, sealing, or structural support to keep the tree healthy.
The result? The bees get a new home, the tree stays intact, and the property owner can breathe easy knowing nature — and safety — have both been protected.
Why It Matters
Kansas City is home to thousands of tree species — and just as many pollinators. By working hand-in-hand with local beekeepers, we’re helping to:
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Protect local pollinators that support our parks, gardens, and farms.
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Prevent unnecessary pesticide use that can harm trees, soil, and beneficial insects.
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Educate the community about coexistence and eco-friendly tree care.
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Support local beekeepers and small businesses that strengthen our region’s environmental health.
Our Bees in Trees Program is proof that when tree care and pollinator care work together, everyone wins — from the bees to the trees to the people who call Kansas City home.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Tree Care
Caring for Kansas City’s trees means thinking beyond the chainsaw. It means honoring the ecosystems that depend on them — and taking a thoughtful, responsible approach to every job.
That’s why our entire team is trained to recognize and protect wildlife habitats during trimming, pruning, and removals. Whether it’s relocating bees, preserving nesting birds, or safeguarding native species, we believe good tree care should always include good stewardship.
Because nature isn’t just part of our work — it’s the reason we do it.
Partnering with the People Who Care as Much as We Do
We’re proud to collaborate with Kansas City’s beekeeping community — hardworking, passionate individuals who share our mission of keeping local ecosystems healthy.
These partnerships make our Bees in Trees Program possible and reflect our company values:
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Integrity: Always choosing the ethical path, even when it takes extra effort.
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Community: Supporting other local businesses and environmental initiatives.
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Sustainability: Protecting what we have today so future generations can enjoy it tomorrow.
Every bee saved is a small victory for biodiversity — and a big reminder that our actions matter.
What to Do If You Find Bees in a Tree
If you spot bees living inside a tree on your property, don’t panic — and don’t reach for the spray. Give us a call!
Our team will assess the situation and, if needed, coordinate a safe removal and relocation with our beekeeper partners. You’ll protect your family, your trees, and a critical part of our ecosystem — all at once.
📍 Proudly serving the Kansas City metro area, including Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Raymore, Blue Springs, and Liberty.
Together, we can keep Kansas City’s trees — and bees — thriving.