Wildlife and Pollinator Program

In March 2021, Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin signed the National Wildlife Federation's Mayors' Monarch Pledge joining hundreds of other U.S. communities committed to creating habitat for the monarch butterfly and pollinators, and educating residents about how they can make a difference at home and in their community. 

What are some examples of pollinators?

Some examples of pollinators are birds, bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, and other animals. Pollination occurs when pollen is moved or carried from one plant (or part of a plant) to another. 

Why are pollinators important?

Pollinators are critical to creating and maintaining the habitats and ecosystems that many animals rely on for food and shelter. One-third of the food crops humans eat depend on pollinators.

How to Attract Pollinators

There are some things you can do to attract pollinators in our own backyard:

• Plant some fun things in your garden that attract pollinators. Concentrate on plants native to our area that are host plants (plants that butterflies and moths require for their caterpillars) and can produce nectar (food) for pollinators. 
• Leave the weeds. These can be helpful for pollinators. 
• Consider a less frequent mowing cycle. This allows things like white clover to bloom and help the pollinators. 
• A shallow dish with pebbles and water will attract bees, butterflies, and moths, without being a drowning hazard. 
• Minimize the use of insecticides in gardens for pollinators and avoid buying plants pre-treated with insecticides – these can be harmful to pollinators, most of which are insects.