Putnam Pollinator Pathway

Join the Putnam Pollinator Pathway!

REGISTER HERE AND TAKE THE PLEDGE TODAY!

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County has launched the Putnam Pollinator Pathway initiative to inspire, encourage and support the establishment of connected pollinator habitat throughout Putnam County. By working collaboratively with partner organizations including municipalities, parks, schools, libraries, land trusts and other conservation organizations, commercial and retail entities, garden clubs and individual property owners, the Putnam Pollinator Pathway initiative will build on regional efforts to create a network of pollinator gardens. Together they will form the Pathway—a connected corridor of pollinator-friendly spaces spanning Putnam County and linking with Pollinator Pathways in Westchester and Fairfield Counties and beyond.

Insects form a critical link in the food web that sustains all life; nearly all the food we eat is directly or indirectly the result of insect pollination but we are losing insects at a perilous rate, which threatens our own existence. At the root of the problem is loss of critical pollinator habitat caused by fragmentation of the landscape, improper pesticide use, climate change, and the decline in the native plant population.

The Putnam Pollinator Pathway initiative seeks to address these causes through education about native plants, best ecological landscaping practices, and planting strategies that benefit pollinators, birds and other wildlife. Connecting the fragmented landscape by creating a pesticide-free corridor of public and private properties will forge linkages between communities, provide the diversity of plant species that native pollinators need to survive, and offer environmental and ecological benefits to Putnam County.

By taking the pledge to avoid pesticides, use native plants when possible, and rethink your lawn, Putnam residents can add their property to the pathway.

REGISTER HERE AND TAKE THE PLEDGE TODAY!

Not ready to take the pledge but want more information? Contact mastergardener.putnam@gmail.com or call (845) 278-6738 ext. 220.

Last updated December 4, 2020