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How do Fruitvale residents envision a pollinator-friendly neighborhood?
How do Fruitvale residents envision a pollinator-friendly neighborhood?
To inform what should go into a pollinator-friendly neighborhood/district certification, we started off with gathering community feedback. Our goal was to understand residents’ opinions on pollinators and how willing or able folks would be to incorporate pollinator-friendly plants into their yard space. To do this, we created a survey aimed for Fruitvale residents, and distributed it at in-person events at the park and through email distribution lists. We facilitated a few focus group discussions to gather more in-depth thoughts.
Of 60 survey respondents, 76% shared they were interested in supporting pollinators in some way in their neighborhood. Many believed that pollinators are ecologically important animals and we should support their conservation, and that pollinators should be treated with kindness and respect.
When asked what resources would help residents establish pollinator plantings, 44% shared they already have plants that attract pollinators growing outside their home. A great number of respondents are already in the practice of pollinator conservation, and as one Fruitvale resident shares: “We have been planting pollinator-friendly plants in our yard and in the community for 20+ years now.” In fact, Iu Mien elders have been growing food for humans and pollinators at the park since 2003!
For existing gardeners or not, nearly half of all respondents shared that receiving pollinator-friendly seeds and care instructions would be most beneficial to start or continue pollinator plantings outside their home. 37% of respondents wished to have a community space where they could plant, and 31% would like access to outdoor space at their homes to plant. Finally, many emphasized they would like to support local organizations’ ongoing work with pollinator conservation in their neighborhood--especially involving schools that already have pollinator-related programs.
Student art by Esme
“I have grandkids in the neighborhood I'd like to see involved with the program. Making poster art and signs would be another good way for them to help out.”
Student art by Willy
“I think people would feel proud to be a pollinator corridor certified by Peralta Hacienda Historical Park.”
To make a pollinator-friendly neighborhood certification a reality, it will involve tapping into Fruitvale residents' enthusiasm and vision for a beautiful and equitable landscape.
Student art by Mirla
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