Dear Aggie

What is a Pollinator’s Role in Supporting a Season of Growth?

As spring begins to bloom here in the North Country, one of nature’s most important and delicate processes also begins to stir—pollination. This essential cycle plays a vital role in supporting not just ecosystems, but also the food systems we rely on every day.

So, what is pollination? At its core, pollination is the transfer of genetic materials. Specifically, transmitting pollen from one plant to another enables seed production. When pollen from the male part of a flower is transferred to the female structure, fertilization can occur, resulting in seeds and eventually, new plants. This process can occur through a variety of methods, including wind, water, and self-pollination. However, in many cases, it’s carried out by animals we call pollinators.

Up to 90% of flowering plants and over 1,200 agricultural crops depend entirely on pollinators. Here in the North Country, crops like apples, berries, and cherries rely heavily on this natural service, making pollinators essential partners in our agricultural landscape.

When we think of pollinators, honeybees are usually the first to come to mind. While they are well-known and widely used in agriculture, they are just one piece of a much bigger picture. North America is home to over 4,000 species of native bees, with more than 426 native species found right here in New York State. In addition to bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, beetles, moths, flies, and even bats all contribute to the pollination process.

Spring is a critical time for these important creatures. Many pollinators are just emerging from hibernation or returning from migration and need food sources to sustain themselves and continue their life cycles. There are several simple ways you can support them as they get to work:

• Plant native flowers- early blossoming native flowers and ones that bloom throughout the season to ensure a consistent food source.
• Avoid using pesticides- avoiding pesticides especially during early spring and bloom periods when pollinators are most active can prevent accidental exposure.
• Provide accessible water sources- providing shallow dishes or bird baths with stones or pebbles can help pollinators access water without drowning.
• Delay garden and yard clean-up- Leaf litter and plant debris left from the previous year often offer shelter and protection against late spring frosts.
• Participate in “No Mow May”- By refraining from mowing your lawn in May, you give flowering plants a chance to bloom and provide vital nectar and pollen as an early food source.
• Create a pollinator garden. If a full lawn delay isn’t possible, consider setting aside a small area filled with native, pollinator-friendly plants and reduce mowing frequency overall.

As you look out over the blooming fields and gardens this season, take a moment to appreciate the quiet, vital work of pollinators. Their presence makes our beautiful landscapes and bountiful harvests possible. Let’s do our part to help protect and celebrate these amazing creatures as they are the key to healthy ecosystems and resilient food systems. For further questions about agriculture or if you want to learn more about honeybees and beekeeping, please contact the CCE Jefferson Ag and Natural Resources Team!

By: Mike Myers, Food Systems & Taste NY Program Manager

Last updated April 29, 2025