CCE Dutchess Pollinator Corner

What is it

According to Pollinator Pathway, a pollinator pathway is a “pesticide-free corridor of native plants that provide nutrition and habitat for pollinating insects and birds.” The corridor consists of committed individuals and organizations that pledge to take specific actions that may improve pollinator habitats and health. Habitats can be large, such as parks or natural lands, but even small spaces, like backyards and flower boxes, can be a part of a pollinator pathway. Because pollinators can only travel a certain distance, it’s important to develop a cohesive network of pollinator habitats in the area.

Why

Insects form a critical link in the food web that sustains all life. A whopping 80-90 percent of all flowering plants depend on insect pollination, and insect pollination accounts for one in three bites of the food we eat. Yet native insect populations are in peril due to declining native plant populations, improper pesticide use, and climate change. The pollinators need help!

How

People on the Pathway are planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers to provide pollinators with healthy habitat (food, water, shelter) throughout the growing season and nesting places through the winter. They are also eliminating pesticides that harm pollinators, birds, other wildlife, and even our own water supplies.

Launched to encourage and support habitat for native pollinators, Pollinator Corner in Millbrook is an initiative of Cornell Cooperative Extension, Dutchess County. Pollinators are critical for growing our food crops and supporting natural ecosystems. By connecting people with nature and safeguarding local food supplies, we also aim to support the health and well-being of people throughout our communities.

For more information on the Pollinator Pathway: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/

Visit Millbrook's Pollinator Pathway page: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/towns/millbrook 

Native pollinator plants: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/plants

Plants Recommended by the Pollinator Pathway NE: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/plant-list

Native Plant Resources: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/native-plant-resources

Plants for specific regions: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/plants-for-specific-regions

Eco-regions: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/ecotypes

How to convert your lawn to a meadow: https://www.pollinator-pathway.org/rethink-your-lawn

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Last updated April 23, 2025