Protect our food supply by reversing the decline in our critical pollinators through Public Education, Pesticide

Reduction, and pollinator Habitat Creation

 

The purpose of this act is to promote public education through initiatives such as high school PSA competitions and

social media outreach, while protecting pollinators by reducing harmful pesticide and herbicide use and supporting the

creation of pollinator-friendly habitats. This act aims to engage the community—especially youth—safeguard pollinators,

and ensure the long-term health of Minnesota’s ecosystems and food supply.

 

Pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects, play a vital role in Minnesota’s ecosystems and

agricultural production. However, their populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and lack of

public awareness about their importance.

This act is justified because:

1.Education is critical: Engaging youth and the community through high school PSA competitions, social media campaigns,

and other outreach programs raises awareness, inspires action, and fosters long-term stewardship of pollinators.

2.Habitat creation supports learning: Establishing pollinator-friendly habitats provides hands-on educational

opportunities and encourages community involvement while directly benefiting pollinator populations.

3.Pesticide reduction reinforces education: Limiting the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides demonstrates practical

steps that individuals and communities can take to protect pollinators, supporting the educational messages of the

campaign.

4.By combining education with actionable measures, this act empowers Minnesotans to actively participate in pollinator

conservation, ensuring healthier ecosystems, sustainable agriculture, and a more informed public.

 

 

1. Pollinator – Any animal that helps plants reproduce by transferring pollen, including but not limited to bees,

butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, and bats.

2. Pollinator-Friendly Habitat – Areas planted with native flowers, shrubs, or other vegetation that provide food,

shelter, or nesting sites for pollinators.

3. Pesticide – Any chemical substance used to kill, repel, or control pests, including insecticides, herbicides,

fungicides, and rodenticides.

4. Public Education and Outreach – Activities designed to raise awareness and engage and motivate the public, especially

youth, in understanding pollinators’ roles and conservation, including high school PSA competitions, social media

campaigns, workshops, and community programs.

5. Community Engagement – Participation of individuals, schools, or organizations in activities that support pollinator

conservation, including habitat creation, educational events, and awareness campaigns.

 

 

These programs will be funded by 3 sources. The After-School Community Learning Grant (funded by the Minnesota

Department of Education), Minnesota Statutes 2023, section 124D.2211. The Pollinator Pathways grant (funded by the

Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR). And the Lawns to Legumes grant which is also ( funded by the

Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources). The estimated plan costs $142,000 to $282,000 a year.

 

 

Enforcement Authority – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in coordination with local education and

environmental agencies, will be in charge of overseeing the implementation of this act.

Education First Approach – Individuals, schools, and organizations found not following the guidelines for

pollinator-friendly habitats or pesticide use shall first be offered educational resources, training, and technical

assistance to bring them up to compliance.

Penalties – If non-compliance continues after reasonable educational corrections, the following penalties may apply:

A written warning for first-time offenses;

A fine up to $250 for repeated non-compliance;

Additional corrective measures, such as required participation in community pollinator education programs.

Reporting and Monitoring – The DNR shall maintain records of compliance, provide annual reports on habitat creation and

public education initiatives, and recommend improvements to ensure the objectives of this act are met.

 

 

This bill will be effective in the year 2027-2028