How do pollinators affect your life? Well, if you’ve ever eaten a blueberry, chocolate bar or tomato, then you owe a big thank you to a small pollinator. Pollinators are birds, bats, butterflies, moths, flies, beetles, wasps, small mammals, and most importantly, bees. They are responsible for pollinating one out of every three bites of food we eat. But these invaluable creatures are facing declines. That’s why USDA agencies, other federal departments and partners share knowledge and collaborate on efforts to help increase awareness and tackle challenges facing pollinators.
As part of National Pollinator Week, June 17 – 23, you and your family can learn how to support and protect pollinators of all kinds. Come celebrate during the fourth annual Pollinator Week Festival at USDA on Friday, June 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at USDA’s Farmers Market in Washington, DC along 12th Street between Jefferson Drive and Independence Avenue, SW. Buzz on over to learn from experts, watch live bees, participate in pollinator-friendly activities, and see what efforts, big and small, you can take in your own backyard to help pollinators.
USDA’s People’s Garden Initiative is pleased to host the Pollinator Week Festival with Pollinator Partnership. To celebrate, you can also find or register a Pollinator Week event happening in your local community. To share your pollinator stories or ask questions, connect with @PeoplesGarden on Twitter using #PollinatorWeek.