Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center

by

Environment

Restoring vital habitat for the unsung heroes of pollination 

A bee flies through a garden, buzzing rhythmically as it visits a flower to drink nectar or feed on pollen. As it continues on its journey, the bee carries pollen grains on its body and transfers them from plant to plant during a process known as pollination, which is critical to the reproduction of flowering plants. A vital—yet often overlooked—ecosystem service, many people are unaware of the significance of pollination. 

So, when the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC) partnered with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) to create a 1.2-acre pollinator meadow, the restoration project not only helped raise awareness but also underscored the importance of protecting native pollinator species, including bees, butterflies, birds, bats, moths, flies, beetles, wasps, and small mammals. Launched in 2016, the meadow provides vital habitat and mitigates threats to pollinators, such as climate change, habitat fragmentation, and the overuse of pesticides, which have caused their populations to decline. 

The pollinator meadow showcases more than 22 species of native grasses and wildflowers, including black-eyed Susan, common milkweed, partridge pea, oxeye sunflower, and little bluestem. Every spring, colorful wildflowers bloom among the grasses—not only providing habitat for pollinators but also attracting deer, foxes, rabbits, and other local wildlife. 

In addition to the meadow, the pollinator habitat at CBEC also features the Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden, a popular site for visitors to observe the activities of pollinators, and the Little Sprouts Garden, a garden designed for children ages two to five. All three components are within close proximity to each other. 

Nearly 10 years after the creation of the pollinator meadow, CBEC is excited to implement new initiatives in July 2025—building upon the nonprofit organization’s ongoing effort to restore natural pollinator habitat. 

“We need to do more for pollinators,” says Vicki Paulas, executive director, CBEC. “The meadow has been successful in supporting pollinators and providing essential habitat for declining populations. So, we are excited to set these initiatives in motion. CBEC offers an immersive experience for visitors. We encourage everyone to use all of their senses to explore the natural world through ‘hands-on,’ ‘feet-wet’ educational experiences. The pollinator meadow offers a great opportunity for people of all ages to learn and interact with nature.” 

“Pollinators play such a critical role in nature,” adds Judy Wink, executive director emeritus, CBEC. “Many people don’t realize the impact pollinators have on food production, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. In fact, one out of every three bites of food we eat is the result of pollination. Pollinators support plant reproduction and the health of ecosystems, and we need to protect them.”

Pollinator Meadow Initiatives

This summer, CBEC will implement initiatives that benefit pollinators and promote biodiversity across the region. These initiatives include raising monarch butterflies onsite, installing feeding stations, and building bee hotels. The following is a snapshot of each of these actions and their intended impact. 

To ensure a population of monarch butterflies, the species will be reared from egg to adult onsite. As part of Monarch Watch (monarchwatch.org), CBEC participates in a tagging program, which offers opportunities for members of the community to tag and release monarchs to help track their annual migration. The organization also participates in Monarch Watch’s Monarch Waystation Program and is a certified Monarch Waystation, providing milkweed and nectar-rich plants that are critical for the survival of the species.

Like all organisms, pollinators need food (nectar and pollen) and water. To address this essential need, CBEC will install feeding stations in the pollinator meadow. The baited stations attract bees and butterflies and provide a supplemental food supply. 

“Weather conditions can affect the availability of food,” Wink says. “Storms and strong winds can damage plants, while temperature changes can alter the time when plants bloom and affect pollinator activity. Since these factors can greatly impact pollinators’ foraging behavior and their ability to survive, a supplemental food supply is critical.” 

Pollinators need to be within close proximity to their habitat. Traveling long distances can increase their vulnerability to predators, weather, and other environmental conditions. CBEC will build bee hotels for solitary bees and beneficial wasps to provide safe habitat, shelter, and nesting sites. 

Focusing on Habitat Restoration and Education

A 510-acre wildlife preserve located in Grasonville, CBEC boasts abundant wildlife and historic landscapes that embody Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Guided by its mission of “creating healthier communities by connecting people to nature through adventure-based learning that contributes to the conservation of the Chesapeake Bay,” the organization focuses on four mission cores: conservation (fisheries, migratory birds, pollinators, and climate change), recreation, education, and stewardship.

To find out about volunteer and learning opportunities at CBEC, visit bayrestoration.org.

“We want CBEC to be the first stop people make when they cross the bridge,” Paulas says. “And we encourage everyone to explore all we have to offer with a sense of wonder. At CBEC, we strive to inspire a love of nature and a sense of stewardship through our educational programming and volunteer engagement—now and for future generations.”