Pollinator Habitat Certification

The Nebraska Pollinator Habitat Certification Program began in 2016 and currently provides educational information on plant selection and how to protect pollinators throughout Nebraska.

This program is meant to increase the number of habitat fragments accessible to pollinators. The goal is to return as much available space to the native prairie that local and migratory pollinators evolved with over millions of years. By providing season-long, high-quality food and nesting resources, the program aims to stabilize regional ecosystems and boost pollination success of locally grown foods.

What is Pollination?

Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the flower’s male reproductive organs or structures to the flower’s female reproductive organs or structures, resulting in seed production. More than 150 crops in the U.S. require pollination for seed production! Most pollination services are provided by insects, wind, and other animals like birds.

Who are our pollinators?

Most insect pollination is done by bees, flies, moths, butterflies, and beetles. There has been much attention given to the decline of our pollinators. The causes of their decline are numerous; loss of habitat, improper use of pesticides, poor nutrition, and disease.

Why pollinator habitat?

By creating habitat for pollinators, you are supplying them with their necessary food resources, nesting habitats, water, and pesticide-free environment they need! By certifying your space, you are ensuring all the necessary pieces are in place! Also, it can help spread the word in your neighborhood about the importance of pollinators, and how others can help.