Pollinator Conservation: Agriculture
The diversity and abundance of native bees on a farm, and subsequently their ability to serve as crop pollinators, are strongly influenced by two factors: suitable habitat on the farm and in the surrounding landscape, and pesticide use on the farm. The basic habitat needs of native pollinators in any location are the same - nesting or egg-laying sites, flowers on which to forage, secure overwintering sites, and a refuge from pesticides. We engage in education, outreach, research, advocacy and policy to achieve pollinator conservation. This work is done on a national level, as well as in the targeted regions of California, the Upper Midwest, the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast.
How to Farm for Pollinators
Know the habitat on your farm
Look for areas on and around your farm, such as old snags, bare soil, fallow fields and weedy road edges, that can support native bees. Read more
Protect flowering plants and nest sites
Once you know where native bees are living and foraging, do what you can to protect these resources from disturbance and pesticides. Read more
Enhance habitat with flowering plants and additional nest sites
Adding native flowering plants that bloom throughout the growing season, leaving some areas of soil untilled, and providing nest sites can increase the number of native bees on your farm. Read more
Ways to manage habitat to protect pollinators
We provide recommendations on how to protect, enhance and attract pollinators to anyone managing large areas of farmland and other habitats. Read more