Taylorsville —The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) is announcing the launch of the Utah Pollinator Habitat Program as part of a statewide effort to boost Utah pollinator populations by helping to establish and enhance pollinator habitats. Pollinators play a vital role in our agriculture industry, local economies, and overall health of our ecosystems. Unfortunately, many pollinator populations have experienced drastic declines in recent years.

“It is important now, more than ever, to support our pollinator populations in Utah as they provide essential benefits to our natural habitats,” says Jim Bowcutt, Director of Conservation.

Over the next three years, UDAF will work with partners and grant recipients to increase habitat across the state by putting approximately 90,000 resource plants in the ground. Native seed mixes will also be distributed to ensure local pollinators thrive. Ready-to-plant habitat kits and seed mixes will be available for qualified projects through our application process; both will be awarded based on regional needs and potential for project success. Applications will be accepted from July 1 – July 31, 2022.

The goals of the Utah Pollinator Habitat Program are to:

·         Increase the amount of available pollinator habitat throughout Utah

·         Enhance and expand existing landscapes to improve pollen and nectar resources available for pollinators

·         Provide better connectivity between habitats to support beneficial species

·         Increase access to native seed resources across the state

·         Increase public awareness and involvement to improve pollinator habitat state-wide

For more information and to access the online application, visit https://www.ag.utah.gov/farmers/conservation-division/pollinator-program/