A pollinator is any animal that visits flowering plants, moving pollen from flower to flower, supporting plant fruiting and reproduction. In North America, insect pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, flower flies, beetles and wasps. The worlds natural systems rely heavily on pollinators to ensure ecosystem functioning and ensure future horticulture crops. According to the USDA, about 35% of the worlds food crops depend on animal pollinators (USDA, n.d.).
Wisconsin, like many other regions, face challenges due to pollinator decline (DATCP, 2016). Proper plant selection can provide habitat for native pollinators and potentially could increase their populations (UGA, 2020; Stewart, 2012). The UW-Madison, Division of Extension, Horticulture Program and the Wisconsin Master Gardener Program are well-positioned to support consumers and commercial audiences in adopting plant health care practices that protect current pollinator populations, while also increasing pollinator habitat through recommending pollinator supporting plants.
Source: National Impacts Database
Read the full impact statement.
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