Here at NCAP, we’re committed to expanding the use of ecologically sound pest management techniques. On July 18, 2017, we facilitated Bee Conscious, a Pollinator and Beneficial Insect Habitat Field Day. In 2016, NCAP and the Xerces Society partnered with St. John’s Organic Farm in Emmett, ID to solarize a grassy meadow and sow it with wildflower seed. At the field day, we observed this established habitat and shared information on how to create new pollinator habitats. Information including site assessment, funding, site preparation, native plant selection, and insect monitoring and identification was covered. Below you’ll find pictures from the event and additional resources to get you fostering a thriving ecosystem in your own backyard or farm! 

Steps to Establishing your own pollinator habitat:

• Conduct a Habitat Assessment. Get the document here!
• Get funded! If you grow and sell produce on your land, you may be eligible for funding to help you establish a habitat. Find out more from your local NRCS office!
• Get ready for planting by preparing your site. Get our habitat establishment document here!
• Choose your plants! Check out this flashcard sheet of native plants we used for the site toured during the field day. Or check out this list of Diane Jones’ top native plant choices for planting in a pollinator habitat. Diane Jones is the owner of Draggin’ Wing Farm, which sells native plants in Boise, ID.
• Once the habitat has been established, it’s time to monitor for bugs! Click here to see the insects we found during the field day.