Governor Dayton Proclaims “Pollinator Week” in Minnesota

Proclamation highlights vital role pollinator species play in Minnesota ecosystems

ST. PAUL, MN – Today, Governor Mark Dayton has proclaimed the week of June 18, 2018 as “Minnesota Pollinator Week” in the State of Minnesota. Pollinators play an important role in the health of various Minnesota environments, providing significant environmental benefits that are necessary for maintaining strong, biodiverse ecosystems.

“Pollination plays a vital role in the health of our forests and grasslands,” reads Governor Dayton’s proclamation. “The State of Minnesota has managed wildlife habitats and public lands for decades, and provides conservation assistance to promote wise conservation stewardship, including the protection and maintenance of pollinators and their habitats on working lands and wildlands.”

In Minnesota’s $90 billion agriculture sector, a pollinator’s role has major impacts on local economies. Pollinator species, including bees and butterflies, are essential partners for farmers and ranchers in producing the state’s food supply and trading exports.

Governor Dayton encourages Minnesotans across the state to celebrate and engage in conservation efforts, such as planting more pollinator-attracting flowers or reducing pesticide usage. More information on how to help stabilize these important species can be found here.

A copy of the Governor’s official proclamation can be found here.