Pollinators are an essential part of the environment.  There has been a decline in pollinators due to lack of habitat, use of pesticides, and diseases. To help promote pollinators the Henry County 4-H Natural Resource Club designed, cleared land, and installed two large pollinator gardens this past year at the extension office.

Each month club members would focus on a different aspect of pollinators and their habitats.  The group decided to use all Kentucky native species in the gardens and to develop structures that would be inviting to pollinators.  They also planned for areas that would retain water to encourage them to visit longer in the gardens.

By the time the installation of planting materials were ready to put in the ground it was late March and due to Covid-19 restrictions members had to sign up to work in shifts to put in plants and then mulch the gardens.  It was very hard work and parents volunteered to help with some of the heavy lifting.   It did not take long for members to enjoy the fruit of their labor and by May the gardens were beginning to show off their blooms and foliage.

The club leader started posting photos of insects that were attracted to the gardens for everyone to enjoy on social media.  Each plant was tagged with a marker so that those that drove by to check out the progress could see the name of each plant.  

During a difficult time of dealing with so many restrictions of activities and limitations placed on members and residents the gardens became a bright spot of peace, tranquility, and beauty that all could enjoy.  The interest from those that have admired the gardens has started more conversations on the plant materials used as well as the need for more pollinator gardens around the county.