U.S. Department of Agriculture recognizes National Pollinator Week June 19-25.
This week is designed to raise awareness about crucial role pollinators, like bees, birds and bats, who play a vital role in producing more than 100 crops in the U.S., according to a June 16 news release. The value added by honey bee pollination alone amounts to more than $18 billion annually.
“Our world's ecosystem and food supply greatly rely on pollinators – without them, many of our nation's crops wouldn't be able to produce as many fruits, nuts or vegetables resulting in lower supplies and higher prices," USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said in the release. "This week and every week, it is critically important that we continue to encourage the protection of pollinators and their habitats."
The USDA acknowledges the significance of pollinators in agriculture and provides support through various means such as research, data collection, diagnostic services, monitoring, pollinator habitat enhancement programs and investments in pollinator health, the release reported.
Later this year, the USDA will release the 2023 Annual Strategic Pollinator Priorities Report, which will outline the agency's research and programmatic priorities related to both managed and wild pollinators, the release said. Additionally, the Science and Research Strategy published last month included information on pollinator health research, education and priorities.
"Fewer pollinators harm both farm income and nutrition security for many Americans," Vilsack added, according to the release. "Healthy pollinator populations are essential to the continued success and well-being of agricultural producers, rural America and the entire U.S. economy.”
As part of the National Pollinator Week celebrations, the USDA hosted pollinator exhibits exposition June 23 on the Jaime L. Whitten lawn on Jefferson Drive, next to the Smithsonian Metro Station. The exposition was held in conjunction with the USDA's Farmers Market, offering the public an opportunity to explore and learn about pollinator health and their crucial role in feeding the world, the release said.
