Durham’s project focused on creating a pollinator-friendly garden on campus.
The Bee Campus USA Program
The Bee Campus USA program is a national initiative that aims to create bee-friendly environments across the United States.
Pollinators under threat, USI steps up to save them.
The Importance of Pollinator Conservation
Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, play a vital role in maintaining the health of our ecosystem. Without them, many plants would be unable to reproduce, leading to a decline in plant diversity and potentially even extinctions. In fact, it’s estimated that one-third of the food we eat is directly or indirectly dependent on pollinators.
The Challenges Facing Pollinators
Pollinators are facing numerous challenges, including habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and disease. Habitat loss and fragmentation can make it difficult for pollinators to find the resources they need to survive, while pesticide use can harm or kill them. Climate change is also affecting pollinators, as changing weather patterns and temperatures can disrupt their habitats and make it harder for them to find food. Finally, disease can spread quickly among pollinator populations, leading to significant declines.
The Role of USI in Pollinator Conservation
The University of Southern Indiana (USI) is taking steps to address the challenges facing pollinators. The university has joined a national movement to improve the landscapes of cities and campuses across the country, with a focus on creating pollinator-friendly habitats.
The university will also need to develop a comprehensive plan for managing and reducing the use of these chemicals.
Establishing a Committee
The first step in addressing the issue of pesticide and herbicide usage is to establish a committee that includes representatives from various groups within the university.
Native plants have been added to the garden, including coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and bee balm. The garden is designed to be a model for other campuses to follow.
Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Campus
The University has taken a significant step towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious campus by establishing a pollinator-friendly garden.
These organizations aim to promote the health and well-being of bees and other pollinators.
The Importance of Pollinators
Pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, play a vital role in maintaining the health of our ecosystem.
