Did you know that one out of every three bites of food we eat is the direct result of a pollinator’s work? Those are the findings of researchers at Cornell University who say this contributes $29 billion to America’s food production. But pollinator declines in recent years have continued due to habitat loss, parasites and other threats.
“One thing is clear, Americans love pollinators and their efforts are paying off. Research in recent articles, such as the Journal of Applied Ecology, have shown that even small gardens can make a difference for pollinators by increasing diversity of bee species across urban and suburban landscapes,” says Mary Phillips, senior director at the National Wildlife Federation, one of the founders of the network.
Growers and garden centers are encouraged to participate in the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge … and to help educate their customers on the benefits of pollinators. And it looks like it is paying off.
You can get involved or learn more about NPGN by visiting http://millionpollinatorgardens.org.