Pollinators

About Pollinators

Pollinators play an essential role in the life cycle of almost 90% of our earth’s plant species. Whether it is a hovering hummingbird, lumbering beetle, or one of over 400 Minnesota bee species visiting a flower in our own backyard, these animals and many others contribute to a process called pollination.

Pollination occurs when the pollen from one plant reaches the stigma of another, usually when carried there by a pollinator. This initiates the formation of seeds, fruits, and nuts that will later be disbursed. Bees have proven to be some of the most effective pollinators, and as a result are the focus of many pollination efforts.  

Concerns

Recent years have seen a dramatic decline in pollinator species. 

Many foods consumed by humans and wildlife rely on pollinators. Without pollinators there is no seed formation, which means future generations of plants and the creatures that rely on them are at risk of decline.

Pesticides, pests and pathogens, loss of habitat, and lack of available nutrition are part of an unfortunately long list of factors which have led to depressed immune systems, a decrease in genetic diversity, and ultimately the decline of pollinator populations.

Maplewood's Pollinator Resolution

The City of Maplewood has adopted practices to make our city a place where pollinators can thrive. In January 2016, The City Council passed a pollinator resolution. This commits the City to developing even stronger policies and practices to help protect pollinators. Maplewood provides habitat for pollinators through preservation of acres of natural vegetation, enhancement of natural habitats, and promotes pollinator education and outreach.     

What You Can Do

  • Eliminate or Minimize Pesticide Use: Research suggests a strong link between pollinator population declines and a group of insecticides known as neonicotinoids.
  • Get Friends and Family Involved: Planting a garden, participating in monitoring projects, or simply visiting a natural area are great ways to spend time with loved ones while making a difference for the future generations of all living things.
  • Participate in Community Science: Submit sightings of bumble bees to bumblebeewatch.org and participate in other projects.
  • Plant a Variety of Native Flowering Plants: A variety of plant heights, bloom time, flower color & shape will support more pollinator species through the growing season. For one-stop native plant shopping, attend the St. Paul Audubon's Landscape Revival Native Plant Sale and Expo. Several native plant nurseries gather to offer a large selection of perennials, trees and shrubs. This event is held the first two Saturdays in June at Oakdale and Shoreview locations.  
  • Provide Native Habitat: Native plants not only give the best possible nutrition to pollinators, but also help preserve a part of Minnesota's natural history, hold soil in place and help water infiltrate into the soil. Leave some natural areas of bare soil, standing dead stems and leaves for over wintering and nesting areas.
  • Adopt a Rain or Pollinator Garden: Have a green thumb? Help maintain a pollinator-supporting garden near you! For more information, contact the Parks and Natural resources Department at (651) 249-2111.

Resources

General Information

Get Involved Community Science

Creating Habitats

For Educators