Pollinators need you. You need pollinators!
Birds, bats, bees, butterflies, beetles, and other small mammals that pollinate plants are responsible for bringing us one out of every three bites of food. They also sustain our ecosystems and produce our natural resources by helping plants reproduce.

Pollinating animals travel from plant to plant carrying pollen on their bodies in a vital interaction that allows the transfer of genetic material critical to the reproductive system of most flowering plants – the very plants that:

    a) bring us countless fruits, vegetables, and nuts,
    b) ½ of the world’s oils, fibers and raw materials;
    c) prevent soil erosion,
    d) and increase carbon sequestration

This nearly invisible ecosystem service is a precious resource that requires attention and support - - and in disturbing evidence found around the globe, is increasingly in jeopardy.

The City of West Palm Beach Office of Sustainability is celebrating National Pollinator Week (June 21-27) by mailing free native wildflower seed packets to City of West Palm Beach residents and businesses! Growing native plants adds beauty and important habitats for wildlife, especially for pollinators. Even a small backyard garden can make a big difference. Plant the seeds in your yard and watch pollinators come right to your doorstep.

National Pollinator Week is a time to celebrate pollinators and spread the word about what you can do to protect them. Fourteen years ago the U.S. Senate’s unanimous approval and designation of a week in June as “National Pollinator Week” marked a necessary step toward addressing the urgent issue of declining pollinator populations. Pollinator Week has now grown into an international celebration of the valuable ecosystem services provided by bees, birds, butterflies, bats and beetles.

Visit https://www.wpb.org/.../get.../celebrate-pollinator-week to request your free wildflower seeds today! *Free for City of West Palm Beach residents and businesses. Limit of 4 per person; one form per property.