Pollinator Health
We need pollinators…and they need us!
Pollinators play a keystone role in most ecosystems and are essential for almost a third of our food production. A healthy abundance of pollinators not only supports the surrounding ecosystem but provides benefits for us as well. Globally, up to 75% of all flowering plant species and 35% of all food crops rely on a pollinator for reproduction.
Despite their importance, pollinators are facing serious declines worldwide due to threats such as pesticides, climate change, habitat loss, invasive diseases, and pests. Bees, one of our most important pollinators, are among the many pollinators that are struggling. In the United States there are around 4,000 native bee species, at least 23% of which are in decline.
We can help pollinators by creating and restoring pollinator habitat areas. Ideally, a pollinator habitat is located in a pesticide-free area and near a water source, that includes shelter structures, nesting materials, host plants, and a mix of blooming and nectar plants that are available year-round.
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If you have questions about pollinators or would like to get involved with any of our programs, email us at: pollinators@rcdsandiego.org.
Pollinator Week is an annual celebration in support of pollinator health that was initiated and is managed by Pollinator Partnership. It is a time to raise awareness for pollinators and spread the word about what we can do to protect them. Popular events include planting for pollinators, hosting garden tours, participating in online bee and butterfly ID workshops, and so much more.
Over 300 community members attended events at the inaugural San Diego Pollinator Week! See here for the full list of activities offered.
