The Erie County Department of Parks, Recreation & Forestry and the Buffalo Women of Environmental Learning and Leadership will host a Pollinator Festival for the second consecutive year.
This year’s event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 3 from 11am to 4pm at the Emery Park Ski Lodge, located at 2084 Emery Road in South Wales. The goal is to educate people about native plants, how to create pollinator-friendly habitats, and how to support and protect native pollinators.
Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and birds, play a crucial role in keeping our natural landscapes healthy. They are responsible for fertilizing many of the plants that produce the fruits, vegetables, and seeds we rely on every day. However, pollinator populations are declining due to habitat loss, climate impacts, and the spread of invasive species. Native plants are essential in reversing this trend because they provide the specific food and shelter local pollinators need to survive and thrive. By choosing native plants and creating pollinator-friendly spaces, residents can make a meaningful impact on the health of local ecosystems.
The free, family-friendly event will take place rain or shine, with both indoor and outdoor offerings, including wildflower walks, pollinator workshops, native plant sale, live animals, face painting, food vendors, a bookmobile, and a vendor and education fair.
“Pollinators are essential to the health of our parks, our food systems, and our entire region’s environmental future,” said Troy P. Schinzel, Erie County Commissioner of Parks, Recreation & Forestry. “The Pollinator Festival is a wonderful opportunity for families to learn how simple actions like planting native species can make a real difference. We encourage residents of all ages to join us at Emery Park to explore, learn, and take part in protecting the natural systems that sustain us.”
For more information:
About accessibility needs, call the Erie County Office of People with Disabilities at 716-858-6215
To see a list of vendors and a full event schedule, visit https://www3.erie.gov/parks/pollinator-festival
