By Andi Anderson
A major environmental effort is underway in the Tri State region to support declining pollinator populations. The Ohio River Foundation has announced the launch of the 1,000 Acres Pollinator Habitat Project, described as the largest pollinator habitat project ever in the region. The goal is to create or restore more than one thousand acres of native habitat that supports butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Pollinators face serious challenges due to habitat loss and chemical use. “Monarch butterflies, rusty patched bumble bees and other pollinators are in decline,” said Rich Cogen, executive director of the Ohio River Foundation. “Whether they are recognized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as being an endangered species or not, pollinators are having difficulty due to loss of habitat, herbicide, pesticide, you name it.”
The foundation is working with seven partner organizations across Ohio and Indiana. These partners include regional park systems, conservation groups, and land trusts. Together, they have identified 25 project locations where native plants will be grown to feed and shelter pollinators. Two sites are located at Timberman Ridge MetroPark and Forest Run MetroPark in Butler County.
“Our intent is to improve 61 acres of existing prairie habitat by removing non-native invasive woody plants and adding forbs (broadleaf plants) that benefit monarch butterflies and other pollinators that are threatened, protected, or in decline due to habitat loss,” said Joe Dumyahn, Director of Natural Resources and Conservation for MetroParks of Butler County.
Great Parks of Hamilton County has committed nearly 451 acres to the project. “Preserving pollinator habitat directly aligns with Great Parks’ mission to protect nature and inspire communities to explore, learn and care for the outdoors,” said Jason Rahe, Chief of Conservation & Parks. He noted the project helps protect prairies and wildlife across Southwest Ohio.
Early preparation work may include invasive plant removal and prescribed burns. Sites will be connected over time to form habitat corridors. The project also plans to involve private and suburban landowners. “People who have backyards are interested in what they can do to support pollinator habitat,” Cogen said.
The project strongly supports Eastern monarch butterflies while benefiting many species. “Pollinators are important [not just] for ecosystem benefit, but also because a third of the food that we eat is pollinated by these different species,” Cogen explained.
The initiative is currently funded by the Kettering Family Foundation and The Elevar Fund, with additional support opportunities open as the project grows.
Photo Credit: istock-kerem-hanci
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle