SANTA FE – For the love of bees, New Mexico is now offering motorists a chance to help the pollinators through the purchase of a special license plate.

The state Transportation Department said Friday that proceeds from the new plates will help fund planting projects along state roads. The pollinator project also will create educational gardens and reduce mowing and spraying of herbicides along roads as a way to improve habitat for bees and other pollinators.

“When we build roads, we disturb the natural environment. That’s why it’s essential the Transportation Department invest in preserving and nurturing the plant, water and animal habitat around our infrastructure,” said Transportation Secretary Mike Sandoval.

The plate features the artwork of Jazlyn Smith, a sixth-grade student from the Albuquerque Sign Language Academy. Smith’s depiction of a blanketflower and a sweat bee was chosen by a panel of judges.

The plate costs $25 for the initial purchase and $15 for yearly renewal.