Managing Global Resources for a Secure Future

Pollinators are crucial for many plant species ranging from flowers commonly found in gardens to crops grown in production. The most widely known pollinators are bees. Bees are responsible for pollinating approximately 35% of America’s crops with forty-three crops highly dependent on them. Up to 90% of natural flora relies on pollinators as well. Due to various factors affecting the environment on a global scale, bee populations are being put under pressure. Declining numbers of pollinators will be detrimental to natural and human-managed plants. The results of such stress are starting to become evident. The Rusty-patched bumble bee, a key pollinator, was listed as an endangered species in 2017. The Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences Club set out to teach children why promoting pollinators is so important. Members created educational posters that were presented at local parks and events held in the Washington County area to provide information about the impact of pollinators. Biodegradable seed packets were prepared beforehand containing native plant seeds that attract pollinators, such as flowers in the Asteraceae family. Seed packets were distributed at each event in an effort to promote environmentally friendly gardening and the importance of pollinators.