OUR MISSION

As the Pollinator Protectors our goal is to better support a diverse group of pollinators at the GVSU Sustainable Agriculture Project (SAP).

WHERE WE STARTED

We started this project at first with the simple interest in pollinators. After further investigation and through our stakeholders we were able to identify that the SAP was in need of a more diverse system to support non-bee pollinators. While supporting bees is a major step for pollinators, there are many others that need the support as well. By supporting a diverse group of pollinators the SAP will also support biodiversity on the land.

Programs

Diverse Pollinator Garden

A pollinator garden at the SAP would Increase forage and habitat for all kinds of pollinators.

Components:

• Educational workshops

  • These workshops would teach others how to plant their own gardens, help lower pollinator stigma, and spread awareness.

• Plant fruit trees

  • Fruit trees are great forage for pollinators, and would be a long term asset for the SAP.

• Hire Intern for maintenance

  • Internships can be created In order to keep up maintenance for the garden. It would give the opportunity for students to fulfill their credits and help sustain the SAP's pollinator garden.

Pollinator Hotel/Condo

A pollinator hotel could offer a safe habitat for pollinators who do not belong to a hive or larger collective. These pollinators typically look for hollowed out spaces to build a home.

Components:

• Starting a Pollinator club

  • This club would focus on non-bee pollinators who could meet at the SAP and maintain the hotels that require cleaning, check-ups, and treatments.

• Building the hotels

  • Building the hotels could be a club activity

• Signage

  • These signs can Inform people what the hotels are and what they provide offering an educational component.

Children's Enrichment Center Partnership

Components:

• Requesting Volunteers

  • Students who are looking to go into educational or other youth-based majors could join as an opportunity to hone their skills.

• Scheduling/Hiring a tour guide

  • Someone who is good with children and can adjust topic material based on age groups.

• Hosting a Field trip at the SAP

  • Gives children the opportunity to learn about the importance of pollinators.

    • Children could receive pollinator-friendly plants to take home.

  • Gives children the chance to spend time outside and have fun.

    • Activities may include arts and crafts.