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Photo: David Phipps / Oregon State University
Photo: David Phipps / Oregon State University

Overview

As urban and suburban areas expand, greenspaces such as parks, golf courses, and landscaped campuses are increasingly precious. Healthy parks foster healthy human and animal communities alike. Pollinator conservation is perfectly suited for urban greenspaces. The basic habitat needs for pollinator insects are simple to provide and can be integrated into the current maintenance of any green infrastucture.

The Basics

While different pollinators may have specific needs to support each stage of their lifecycle, they all need high-quality habitat that provides an abundance of flowers, shelter and nesting sites, and protection from pesticides.

Food in the form of abundant flowering plants that provide access to pollen and nectar throughout the growing season

Access to shelter and nesting sites including host plants for butterflies, pithy-stems and dead wood for cavity-nesting bees, and bare earth for ground-nesting bees

A stylized image of a pesticide spray can.

Protection from pesticides which kill non-target insects and degrade habitat by removing or contaminating flowering plants 

Advocates who are willing to make changes in their own landscape, but also teach others and spread the word to encourage pollinator- friendly practices in their community.

Let's Get Going!

Create, Restore, and Manage Habitat

From expansive meadows to backyard butterfly gardens and everywhere in between - every landscape can be optimized to support pollinators.

Provide Access to Nesting Sites

Like us, pollinators need a place to call home. Nesting resources can take many forms - from natural to man-made.

Managing Pests While Protecting Pollinators

Whether conventional or organic, all pesticides can pose a risk to pollinators if not used properly. Learn about the risks pesticides pose to pollinators, what measures can be used to reduce harm, and the many alternatives available to foster alternative methods of pest control.

Pick the Right Plants

We’ve prepared research-based, regionally appropriate plant lists and guides to help you pick the very best plants for pollinators.

Bee-Safe Nursery Plants

Creating a welcoming home for pollinators is reason enough to choose plants free from harmful pesticide residues. But how do you figure out if the plant you want is safe?

Become a Bee City or Bee Campus

Bee City USA is now an initiative of the Xerces Society. Join a growing number of communities and campuses who have made a commitment to pollinator conservation.