Wisconsin Pollinators — About Us

How did this project start? As I read about pollinators like bees and butterflies are in decline and their losses threaten Wisconsin wildflowers, ecosystems, agricultural crops, and natural areas, I felt that public awareness needed to be increased to raise concern about these issues. We depend on pollinators to transfer pollen and help plants produce fruits and seeds. Many native plants, as well as many food crops, rely on pollinators.

Flower gardening increased my interest. I began gardening for the first time and took great pleasure in designing the garden and found it an outlet for the energy I had once dedicated to other environmental causes. I read and learned from neighbors how to use organic methods to foster a garden that welcomed birds, butterflies and bees. Gradually I became more and more enthusiastic about the project. I submitted a proposed ordinance to the City of Appleton a few years ago to allow residential beekeeping, similar to what is being encouraged in major cities around the US. Working with the City by educating its board, the ordinance was approved!

This web site is dedicated to those like me that desire information on supporting native pollinators. Even a small yard like mine can make a difference. I do hope you find information that will help you on your efforts to support native pollinators.

Eventually I will build into the web site a process for you to add content to help improve the quality of the information that can be shared. Please be patient during this development process and occasionally check back to see the progress.

Regards,
~Wisconsin Pollinators