If You Build It in New Jersey, They Will Come — Pollinators, That Is
In the spirit of the iconic movie "Field of Dreams," New Jersey is heeding the call to create something desperately needed — habitats for pollinators. Just as the film’s protagonist transformed a cornfield into a baseball diamond to fulfill a vision, conservation groups and park commissions across the state are establishing native wildflower meadows to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential to our food web and ecosystem.
Pollinators play a crucial role in the reproduction of 80% of the plants that produce fruits and vegetables worldwide, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. While some plants are wind-pollinated, most rely on insects to carry pollen from flower to flower. This intricate dance is vital for both natural ecosystems and human agriculture.
However, the environment has become increasingly hostile to these tiny workers. Climate change, the spread of non-native plants, and pesticide use are all significant threats. Honeybees, often trucked from farm to farm to pollinate crops, are not native to New Jersey and can outcompete native pollinators for resources, exacerbating the problem.
The Xerces Society, dedicated to invertebrate conservation, highlights that North America has over 3,600 native bee species, many of which are in decline. They report that 28% of bumble bee species are threatened, and over 40% of invertebrate pollinator species, particularly bees and butterflies, may face extinction in the coming decades.
The solution proposed by conservationists is straightforward: create and restore pollinator habitats. This can be done almost anywhere, from backyards and community gardens to rooftops and office landscapes. These habitats should prioritize native plants, which are essential for the survival of many specialist pollinators. For example, monarch butterfly caterpillars only feed on native milkweed leaves.
New Jersey’s pollinator meadows are typically planted with a variety of native wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs. Popular species include bee balm, yarrow, coneflower, black-eyed Susan, and various types of milkweed and asters. These plants provide the necessary resources for pollinators to thrive.
Another critical aspect of supporting pollinators is reducing or eliminating pesticide use. Neonicotinoids, or "neonics," are particularly harmful, affecting insects' nervous systems and leading to paralysis and death. Studies also suggest that neonics contribute to the decline of farmland and grassland birds, including those found in New Jersey.
In response, Governor Phil Murphy signed the “Save the Bees” bill in January 2022, limiting neonic use in non-agricultural settings. However, neonics are still prevalent in agriculture, particularly in corn and soybean production. New York recently enacted the "Birds and Bees Protection Act," the strongest neonic ban in the nation, which will prohibit the sale of neonic-coated seeds by 2029.
Following New York’s lead, New Jersey should consider similar measures to protect its pollinators. Such actions would not only benefit insect populations but also support the state’s birds, waterways, and food supply.
E.O. Wilson, a renowned biologist, emphasized the importance of insects, calling them “the little things that rule the world.” Without them, he warned, much of life on land would disappear within months. By banning harmful pesticides and creating more pollinator habitats, we can help ensure a sustainable future for our bees, butterflies, and birds — and ourselves.
FAQs
Why are pollinators important?
- Pollinators are essential for the reproduction of 80% of plants that produce fruits and vegetables, playing a crucial role in human food production and ecosystems.
What challenges do pollinators face?
- Pollinators are struggling due to non-native plants, pesticide use, and habitat loss.
How do honeybees impact native pollinators?
- Introduced honeybees can cause food shortages for native pollinators by competing for the same resources.
What are some native plants that support pollinators in New Jersey?
- Plants like milkweed, bee balm, yarrow, coneflower, black-eyed Susan, and goldenrod are beneficial for pollinators.
What is the impact of neonicotinoid pesticides?
- Neonicotinoids harm pollinators' nervous systems and are linked to declining populations of birds and beneficial insects.
#PollinatorConservation #SaveTheBees #NativePlants #NeonicotinoidBan #Biodiversity
