The Easttown Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) has established two pollinator gardens as part of an initiative to create a Pollinator Pathway along Route 30. The effort, which began last fall, aims to support pollinators such as bees and butterflies by providing connected habitats throughout Easttown Township and neighboring areas in Chester County.
A pollinator pathway consists of gardens spaced closely enough for pollinators to travel between them. These gardens are planted with species that offer pollen and nectar from May through October, supporting not only insects but also birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
Pollinator populations have been declining nationwide due to factors like habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and disease. Urban development and the introduction of non-native plants contribute significantly to this loss. By establishing pathways of native plant gardens, the EAC hopes to help increase the survival rates of pollinators and other wildlife. Pollinators play a key role in food production systems.
The newly planted gardens are located at the intersection of Route 30 and Leopard Road and at 105 West Lancaster Avenue in Devon. Over the past two years, the EAC has also added native plants to downspout planters and rain gardens across the township.
To further educate residents about pollinator pathways, the EAC will host a webinar with the Chester County Planning Commission as part of the Keep Chester County Beautiful initiative. Registration for this event is available online at https://chesco-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0ztkWyHzQHellAX2k2hK9w#/registration.
Community members interested in helping can participate in planting additional gardens this spring or assist with monitoring efforts. Before planting began last year, few pollinators were observed at garden sites. Starting in April, volunteers will monitor each site weekly for 15 minutes to count visiting pollinators. Those wishing to volunteer can sign up at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F094DADA923A0F58-62533274-pollinator#/. Training materials and monitoring forms will be provided.
