The EAC planted two pollinator gardens last fall as part of what we hope will become the beginning of a larger Pollinator Pathway along route 30. In addition to planting gardens in Easttown township, we are working with Chester County to increase the number of gardens along Rt 30 in Chester County. 
What is a Pollinator Pathway?
A pollinator pathway is a series of gardens designed to be close enough together to allow pollinators (bees, butterflies, ants, etc.) to move freely between them. Plants are selected to provide pollen and nectar through the season from May to October. Plants also provide habitat for these insects and for birds, reptiles and small mammals.
Why are Pollinator Pathways Important?
Pollinator numbers are declining throughout the country due to habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change and disease. Habitat loss is often man made and includes buildings, parking lots, driveways and other surfaces. It also occurs due to the use of non-native plants in our landscapes. A pollinator pathway can increase survival of pollinators and other wildlife. Pollinators are important for food production.
Where Can I See Pollinator Gardens?
The two pollinator gardens planted, one at the intersection of Rt 30 and Leopard Road and the other at 105 West Lancaster Ave. in Devon, a small garden at the East edge of Easttown Township. The EAC has also planted native plants in downspout planters and rain gardens throughout the township over the past two years.
How Can I Learn More About Pollinator Pathways?
The EAC will present as webinar in conjunction with the Chester County Planning Commission Keep Chester County Beautiful initiative. Use this link to sign up.
https://chesco-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0ztkWyHzQHellAX2k2hK9w#/registration
How Can I Get Involved to Help Pollinators?
EAC members will be planning and planting additional pollinator gardens this spring. We welcome help with this effort. To determine if our efforts attract pollinators are successful, prior to planting, we observed the garden sites to determine if pollinators were present. Not surprisingly, we found very few pollinators visiting the sites. This year starting in April, we will again monitor the sites weekly to see if we have an increase in pollinators. The plan is to monitor each garden for 15 minutes each week and count pollinators. If you are interested, please use this link to sign up on the sign-up genius. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F094DADA923A0F58-62533274-pollinator#/
Training and monitoring forms will be provided.