Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment
Green Living Challenge Update (Volume 2, Issue 8)


June 22, 2009

Protecting Pollinators

mason bees
 
Pollinators are essential in maintaining the balance in a healthy backyard ecosystem as they aid in the reproduction of many plants. To protect these fundamental creatures, there are several steps that can be taken in one's own garden or yard:
  • Plan a garden so that bee friendly plants are grouped together in small patches, which will help attract pollinators.
  • Provide places for bees to nest. Leave dead tree branches, retain direct access to soil in well-drained areas, and protect dense grass from mowing.
  • Avoid or regulate the use of pesticides. If some form of pesticide must be used, it's preferable to use fast-acting, short- residual options and applying them at dusk when bees are less likely to be active.
For more information on protecting pollinators' habitats, please refer to the following resources:

 
Welcome to 
ACE's Green Living E-Newletter
Through this newsletter, we'll provide regular updates about our Green Living Challenge, local events and workshops related to green living, and tips to green your lifestyle.
Dear ,
Please join us for a National Pollinators Week Celebration on Saturday, June 27 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The event will take place at Arlington Central Library, 1015 N. Quincy Street.
 
Come celebrate the birds, bees, bats, butterflies, moths, beetles, and other animals that pollinate our plants. This free event will include workshops and exhibits on how to attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
 
Due to biodiversity threats such as land development, pollution, and pesticide poisoning, we are losing pollinators around the world at an alarming rate. The U.S. Senate declared National Pollinator Week so we can learn more about the vital process of pollination and how we can help keep pollinators healthy.
 
Some of the activities and exhibits will include:
  • Exhibits and resources about bees and other pollinators and how to attract them to your yard.
  • A bee bundling activity to make habitat for bees out of bamboo stalks. Bring 5" to 8" bamboo stalks if you have them (and rid your yard of an invasive plant!) 
  • Materials on how to certify your backyard as a wildlife habitat providing food, water, shelter and places to raise young.
  • Blooming examples of great plants that attract pollinators.

Participants will include the Arlington County Nature Centers and Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment.  Free and suitable for all ages. No registration required. More information: 703-228-6535.

See ACE's
web site for more details and additional events.

Arlington County's Green It workshop series has ongoing events for homeowners and businesses.

Sincerely,
Elenor Hodges
Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment
703-228-6427 
 
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Attention Organizations/Civic Associations: Invite ACE to your next meeting for a presentation on green living. Contact us at [email protected] or 703-228-6427.