Pollinator Conservation

What is a Pollinator? 

A pollinator is anything that helps to transfer pollen from the male structures of flowers (anthers) to the female structure (stigma) of the same flower species. While some plants are wind or water pollinated, others depend on insects and animals to transfer their pollen. The main animal pollinators in Pennsylvania are bees, flies, butterflies, beetles, and hummingbirds. 

Pollination enables fertilization and the production of seeds, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Pollinators are responsible for approximately 1 in every 3 bites of food that people eat, as 85% of all plants depend on pollination for fertilization. The fruit that the seeds and nuts produce feeds abundant wildlife beyond our own kitchens, as many of these invertebrates themselves are key nutrition for birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and more. 

Threats to Pollinators 

The primary threats to pollinator species are habitat loss, pesticide and insecticide exposure, climate change, and disease. Habitat loss due to environmental degradation and climate change reduces the abundance of available food and nesting sites for pollinators. In addition, urbanization and development can result in habitat fragmentation, isolation, and local extinction. Pesticides and insecticides harm pollinators through direct poisoning and other sub-lethal effects including impaired learning, impaired foraging, and reduced immune response. You can reduce these risks by using integrated pest management on your property. 

The State of Pollinators in North America

Creating Pollinator Friendly Zones on Your Property

To support an abundance and diversity of native bees, butterflies, birds and other wildlife, the ideal lawn could consist of native flowers, native flowering trees and shrubs, and meadows. The Borough cannot provide assistance with landscaping needs at this point in time. Residents are encouraged to utilize the resources listed below to help plan their yard plantings. 

Selecting Native Plants to Support Pollinators 

• Pollinator Plants Arranged by Bloom Time  
• Native Plants for Pollinators and Beneficial Insects— Mid-Atlantic Region 
• Monarch Nectar Plants— Mid-Atlantic Region 
• USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map— Confirm which planting zone you are in to select species that thrive in your area
• DCNR Pennsylvania Invasive Species List 
• USDA Federal Noxious Weed List

Planning and Planting Checklists and Resources 

• Nesting and Overwintering Habitat for Pollinators and Other Beneficial Insects 
• Checklist of Actions to Promote Pollinators in Yards, Gardens & Parks

Pollinator & Wildlife Friendly Lawn Certifications and Supporting Programs 

• Penn State Extension Master Gardener —Pollinator Friendly Garden Certification 
• Pollinator Pathway Program 
• North America Butterfly Association —Butterfly Garden Certification Program 
• The Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania —Certified Backyard Habitat Program 
• The Pollinator Partnership —Bee Friendly Gardening 
• National Wildlife Federation —Certified Wildlife Habitat 
• The Monarch Watch 
• Xerces Society —Pollinator Protection Pledge

Borough of State College residents are required to follow Chapter IX, Part C, Grass & Weeds, of the Codification of the Borough of State College for plantings on private property. Please visit the State College Borough Tree Lawn Planting page for information and regulations for planting in the Right of Way.