Operation Pollinator:

Helping native pollinators thrive on farmland

Operation Pollinator restores native pollinators in agricultural, golf and other landscapes by creating essential habitats. The program uses practical, cost-effective conservation practices that directly address pollination needs at a local level. Based on scientific research and participants’ experience, Operation Pollinator has proven to successfully establish and manage nectar- and pollen-rich habitats in key landscapes, with dramatic recovery in the number of pollinating insects.

The science-based, sustainable program solutions are done through collaboration with key stakeholders for region-specific seed mixtures. Through Operation Pollinator, farmers, golf course superintendents and land managers strengthen the environment through a sustainable approach to biodiversity on various landscapes.

What is Operation Pollinator?

Why do we need Operation Pollinator?

Decreasing populationsPollinating insects are critical to sustain yields and crop quality; in fact, more than 100 food crops depend on pollination. Experts estimate one in every three bites consumed is a result of insect pollination. Unfortunately, numbers of native pollinators have declined dramatically in the last 40 years, mainly due to loss of habitat. To date, food security has not been impacted. But as an ever-growing population becomes more dependent on efficient agriculture, maintaining safe and healthy pollinator populations is increasingly important.

Preserving healthy bee populations is critical to crop production. An abundance of pollinating insects is a highly visible indicator of healthy ecosystems. Managing habitats for bees and other pollinators significantly increases biodiversity and brings about real environmental benefits. This addresses one of Syngenta’s six commitments highlighted in The Good Growth Plan—helping biodiversity flourish.

Farmer benefitsNot only does Operation Pollinator provide an answer for restoring vital populations of pollinating insects, but with careful site planning and management, it can also play an important role in reducing soil erosion and helping protect valuable water resources. Operation Pollinator also creates habitats for small mammals and farmland birds.

Increasing bee populations also results in a positive effect on the bottom line, as they enhance yield and crop quality, and boost profitability by reducing pollination costs. With the environmental benefits of increased natural habitats, farmers are able to continue to farm efficiently on the most productive parts of the land.

Operation Pollinator sends a powerful message that can increase positive public and industry perception. Participating in programs like Operation Pollinator shows that farmers and other land managers not only provide the world with necessary feed, food and fuel, but are leaders in preserving the environment.

Making a difference through collaborationSyngenta leading the waySyngenta is committed to furthering sustainable agriculture while helping growers increase productivity. We engage in many global initiatives aimed at maximizing production and restoration of our natural resources. We strive to be an agriculture leader through presence, collaboration and commitment to research and development. Syngenta provides crop protection products and seed for more than 100 horticulture crops that require insect pollination. Now, we are taking our commitment one step further by working to ensure pollinators have the habitat they need to thrive.

Operation Pollinator networkThough we are proud to spearhead this innovative initiative, we are not in this alone. We recognize it is through strategic collaborations and marketplace presence that we are able to address this growing agricultural need.

Syngenta collaborates with an extensive network of farmers, land managers, NGOs and government agencies. These trusted relationships allow us to find practical solutions that can benefit pollinators and farmers. We work with ecology and entomology experts at the University of California-Davis, Michigan State University and the University of Florida and other partners such as Delta F.A.R.M. and Trees Forever, among others.

Your role in pollinator healthResearch shows establishing native plant gardens with a variety of simple wild flowers has a big effect on pollinator health. In addition to creating habitats on your farm, you can create your own pollinator-friendly garden or window box using native plants. Sponsoring local projects to plant wild flowers on road sides, in parks and other bare areas can provide pollinators greater access to diverse pollen throughout the summer and increase resistance to disease and other stresses.

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