TurfMutt Promotes Power of Parks for Pollinators

As National Pollinator Month unfolds in June, the TurfMutt Foundation urges everyone to support vital pollinator populations, such as birds, bees, butterflies and bats, in their family yards, parks, community gardens, greenways, municipal golf courses and other community green areas. These living landscapes can provide essential shelter and food for important pollinators.

“Pollinators are the unsung heroes of the natural world, and are essential in growing fruits, vegetables and flowers,” says Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of managed green space. “By creating and maintaining healthy green spaces in our communities and backyards, we can directly support their survival and contribute to a healthier planet.”

A recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll for the TurfMutt Foundation revealed that connecting with nature (60 percent) and observing wildlife (51 percent) are among the most enjoyed activities in public green spaces, like public parks, underscoring the shared value these areas provide for both people, pets and pollinators.

The TurfMutt Foundation offers four ways communities can tap into the power of green space for pollinators:

• Prioritize plants for your climate zone: Plant, tree and shrub species that naturally occur in your region are more beneficial to local pollinators than invasive species that can disrupt the ecosystem. Milkweed, for instance, is particularly valuable for monarch butterflies – a fantastic addition to any public green space.
• Plant for continuous blooms: Selecting a variety of nectar-rich, flowering plants and shrubs that bloom at different times during the year ensures continuous support for pollinators.
• Empower young pollinator advocates: Create programs to engage children in becoming pollinator champions. TurfMutt’s free STEM-based lesson plans include an activity called Protecting Pollinators to help students learn how to design a green space where pollinators will thrive.
• Foster community stewardship: Foster community engagement to support pollinators through volunteer opportunities and pollinator-specific events. Encourage your community to plan for and protect parks, community gardens, green school yards and other community green space. For inspiration, consult the National Recreation & Park Association’s Parks & Pollinators resource.

To learn more about how to create pollinator-friendly green spaces, explore the TurfMutt Foundation’s International Backyarding Fact Book and sign up for Mutt Mail here. Follow the adventures of Mulligan the TurfMutt on the CBS Lucky Dog television and Mission Unstoppable shows on Saturday mornings.