Pollinators in agriculture: Identification and Conservation

Bumblebees are one of our most important native pollinators of food crops, including wild blueberries. (Photo courtesy
of Xerces Society)

There is a lot of buzz about pollinators these days, especially for farmers. Join farmers Brady Hatch and Brendan Quillen at Morning Dew Farm, in Damariscotta, on Wednesday, August 1, from 5-7 p.m., for a free walk and talk, “Pollinators in Agriculture: Who’s Who and How to Conserve Them.” Eric Venturini, Farm Bill Pollinator Conservationist and NRCS Partner Biologist will lead this program to ID pollinators on the farm, learn about their ecology, and discuss steps to getting involved in pollinator conservation efforts, including how to successfully establish wildflower plantings for pollinators.

In addition, Joe DeStefano, NRCS technical service provider and owner Posto Bello Apiaries, will be on hand to talk about building successful, beneficial partnerships between farmers and beekeepers. For those who wish to stay for a potluck following the program, please bring utensils, etc, and a dish to share.

This free program is part of the 2018 Farmer & Gardener Workshop Series sponsored by Knox-Lincoln Soil & Water Conservation District, Maine Coast Heritage Trust and Midcoast Farmers Alliance; Maine Organic Farmers & Gardeners Association is a co-sponsor of this event. For more information: www.knox-lincoln.org/beginning-farmer, hildy@knox-lincoln.org or 596-2040.