Pollinator Conservation
Pollinators are essential to our environment. The ecological service they provide is necessary for the reproduction of nearly 70 percent of the world’s flowering plants, including more than two-thirds of the world’s crop species. The United States alone grows more than one hundred crops that either need or benefit from pollinators, and the economic value of these native pollinators is estimated at $3 billion per year in the U.S. Beyond agriculture, pollinators are keystone species in most terrestrial ecosystems. Fruits and seeds derived from insect pollination are a major part of the diet of approximately 25 percent of all birds, and of mammals ranging from red-backed voles to grizzly bears. In many places, the essential service of pollination is at risk from habitat loss, pesticide use, and introduced diseases.
Program Features
Agriculture
Native bees are valuable crop pollinators. These wild bees help increase crop yields, and may serve as important insurance when honey bees are hard to come by.
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Managing Habitat for Native Pollinators
Learn how to manage natural areas and other landscapes in a way that benefits native bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
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Gardens
Around your home, growing patches of native flowers that provide abundant nectar and pollen can improve the environment for pollinators.
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Parks and Golf Courses
Parks, golf courses and other greenspaces are increasingly important to the vitality of our communities. At the core of a healthy environment are pollinators.
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Bumble Bees in Decline
Many formerly common North American bumble bees are now in decline. We are reaching out to scientists and citizen monitors across the country to document their status.
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Red List of Bees
An online list of species profiles for approximately 100 bees, butterflies and moths that are at-risk of extinction.
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Native Bee Biology
Information on the biology and natural history of native bees, including solitary bees, bumble bees and cuckoo bees.
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