From the Ground Up: Who are pollinators and why are they important

The Linn County Master Gardeners have named 2016 the 'Planting for Pollinators' year. OK so what does this mean?

Who are the pollinators?

They are a rather varied group of mostly insects, some birds, but surprisingly a few mammals. Ninety percent are insects. Within that group it's mostly comprised of bees, both native and honey. Also in the largest group of pollinators are butterflies, moths, wasps, flies and beetles. Birds, particularly hummingbirds are also pollinators and surprisingly the bat, which is considered a mammal.

Pollinators are generally the smallest land species of the planet. Their job is to transport the pollen from the male to female plant, thus causing fertilization and the production of healthy seed. They are essential for the continuation of our food production, as well as the nutrition (food) for small animals. The decline of our pollinator population can be attributed, in part, to the destruction of habitat.

Here's a few general facts about the insect group: Their size ranges from a few millimeters (bees) to 5 inches (moths). Their life span can be from 1 month to 1 year. Their flying range is based upon their size and can vary from 300 yards to 2 miles. All have 4 life stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult.

Why are pollinators important?

Because without pollinators (one-third of our food must be pollinated to produce), it's estimated that humans would survive only four years. That sounds a little 'over the top' doesn't it? Well, the bottom line is that pollinators are a keystone species. If we lose them, all the ecological layers come tumbling down.

Data on the bee population since World War II shows we have lost 50 percent of its numbers. The decline in butterflies is even more dramatic, with Monarchs showing a decrease of 90 percent in 20 years. Other butterfly species are on our national endangered list.

The good news is that two of the main reasons for the decline — pesticides and lack of habitat, can be quickly addressed by each of us in our own backyards. And, even better news is that because our 'family' of pollinators will generally stay within our vicinity through generations (with the exception of migrating species), we can rebuild habitat, see and enjoy them as the population increases.

Throughout the coming year, the Linn County Master Gardeners will be offering lots of opportunities to learn more about pollinators and how to build habitat, so be sure to keep an eye on announcements, classes and seminars. And next month, I'll be writing about how to please the pollinator.

If you'd like to learn more about pollinators, the facts above, and further information, an excellent publication to start with is 'Attracting Native Pollinators,' the Xerces Society Guide.

• Becki Lynch is a Linn County Master Gardener. For gardening questions, call the Linn County Extension Master Gardener Hortline at (319) 447-0647.