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Salute to pollinators

Posted 6/3/22

The insects buzzing around your head can sometimes be a source of annoyance, but It would be a mistake to overlook their significance.

U.S. National Pollinators Month in June brings attention to …

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Salute to pollinators

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The insects buzzing around your head can sometimes be a source of annoyance, but It would be a mistake to overlook their significance.

U.S. National Pollinators Month in June brings attention to the importance of the relationship between pollinators and plants.

These critical insects and animals transfer pollen from one plant to another, which leads to plants being able to produce fruits, vegetables and nuts.

The United States Forest Service says that pollination is a crucial method through which humans and wildlife get their food resources.

Research studies estimate that around 75 percent of the food sources in the world are dependent on pollination.

However, due to increased pollution and invasive non-native plantations, pollinators such as bees and wasps face unprecedented danger.

The conservation of pollinators through research, education, and awareness has become more important now than ever before. According to the National Wildlife Federation, every one in three bites of food you take comes from a pollinated source.

International events throughout the world such as the war in Ukraine are disrupting global food supplies. Last month the United Nations warned that a combination of war, climate change and rising inflation is pushing society toward a global food crisis.

Food shortage isn’t the only outcome that could result from a decline in pollinators. Due to increased deforestation in combination with increasing urban developments, pollinators are not only losing their natural habitats but humans and wildlife are also in danger of a rise in natural disasters like flooding. According to National Geographic, The danger of extinction of one or a few pollinators will also likely signal the extinction of other pollinators and plants. The destruction of complex ecosystems has countless repercussions in the short and long term if nothing is done to preserve nature.

With that in mind, bees and other pollinators are carrying a lot of weight on their fragile wings. But there is a lot we can do in our own communities to think globally while acting locally. Grow a variety of native plants in your yard or garden that provide continuous blooms from early spring to late fall. Reduce or eliminate the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Through the small actions of many individuals, we can ensure pollinators not only survive but thrive.

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