[audio:http://wamcradio.org/EarthWise/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/EW-02-24-14-Growing-Insects-on-the-Farm.mp3|titles=EW 02-24-14 Growing Insects on the Farm]
The precipitous decline in pollinating insects – particularly bees – has become an issue of great concern around the world. Insects pollinate 75% of the crops that we rely on for food worldwide, and bee populations have declined by as much as 96% over the past century.
While there is continuing research on the causes of this decline, there are also increasing efforts to try to counteract the loss through proactive programs that increase pollinator numbers. Part of this is a new movement to get farmers to nurture beneficial insects as though they were a crop.
A study by Michigan State University looked into the effects of such action. Wildflower patches were planted alongside blueberry plants on a farm. Not only did the wildflowers attract bees and other pollinators, but also the insects that attack pests that damage blueberries. The farmer involved was able to cut back on spraying insecticides thanks to the new beneficial insect populations.
Other techniques for enhancing pollinator numbers include the use of hedgerows of native shrubs and wildflowers and, in general, the use of polyculture as opposed to the planting of just a single crop.
Farming plants specifically to attract pollinators is in its infancy, but there is some resistance due to the costs involved. But as the effects of the pollinator loss continue to be felt, we can expect to see government programs and initiatives sponsored by food producers to protect this vital part of the agriculture industry.
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Web Links
Growing Insects: Farmers Can Help to Bring Back Pollinators
http://e360.yale.edu/feature/growing_insects_farmers_can_help_to_bring_back_pollinators/2735/
Photo, taken on August 23, 2009, courtesy of Stuart Richards via Flickr.
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