Pollinator Pathways in Ontario

Preserve biodiversity and healthy ecosystems

"Insects are in deep trouble, but there is hope" (David Suzuki). Over 30 of Ontario’s economically important crops use pollinators, such as bees, to support successful yield. Without them, the food chain as we know it would not exist. Professor Laurence Packer of York University highlights that many of the bumblebee species found in Canada have substantially declined both in abundance and geographic range. Additionally, he indicates "...declines in important pollinators are going to have cascading impacts throughout the entire ecosystem." These statements outline the dire consequences and impacts if pollinator species are not protected. As the population of Peterborough County grows and housing developments follow the importance of creating pollinator pathways and maintaining the biodiversity of pollinators and native plants in the area is increasingly urgent. Even small steps, like planting native plants in small planters, can help combat our insect decline.

Background

As the population of Peterborough County is predicted to grow between 15-30% over the next 30 years (Ministry of Finance of Ontario, 2019), the natural landscape will likely be disrupted to account for the growth in infrastructure. In many newer developments, non-native species are often more broadly planted (including invasive and/or decorative non-native plant species), which local pollinators may not be able to use for pollination thus not thriving in the area (Barker & Sargent, 2020). This results in native flora being fragmented, consequentially impacting native pollinators' foraging areas. This decline in the health and prevalence of pollinators is not just a local issue; the issue spans the globe (Marshman et al., 2019). Given pollinators pollinate an estimated 35% of global crop volume (making this a food security issue) and 90% of the Earth's flora, it is essential we create habitats within our urban settings that can sustain these critical insects (Marshman et al., 2019). An additional factor that impacts pollinators' health is the common use of pesticides for non-native plants in urban gardens (The David Suzuki Foundation, 2021). Generally speaking, native plant species do not require pesticides to thrive, creating a more hospitable habitat. New developments with native plants and community members with increased knowledge can combat fragmented habitats and provide enough density of native plants for pollinators to have pathways in urban environments.

The good deed

With each donation, LCS will purchase native pollinator seeds. LCS students will be educated about the importance of pollinators and native plants. Students will then package and deliver seeds to community members, prioritizing those living in newly developed areas. Promoting conversation, the growth and appreciation of native pollinator plants, and sharing the opportunity for community members to visit the LCS campus will allow the community to focus on local regenerative gardening practices. Additionally, these seeds will be strategically planted, resulting in less fragmented habitats for local pollinators, and an increase in native pollinator-friendly plants. This will support and encourage local wild pollinators to stay in the area. The direct impacts will be improved biodiversity in the area and the prioritization of planting native seeds to best support our local environment and promote a healthy diverse ecosystem.