Habitat Creation for Native Beneficial Insects
Henrico Public Library - Glen Allen, 10501 Staples Mill Rd, Glen Allen, VA, 23060 Map
Public Welcome Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains
Insects are an essential, yet often underappreciated, part of our ecosystem. They provide numerous ecological and economic services that influence and benefit our daily lives. Despite their crucial importance, their populations are declining rapidly, which could lead to serious consequences. Stream scientist Leah Purdy discusses the services insects provide and the factors contributing to their declining populations. Her presentation emphasizes gardening and land management practices that can enhance insect habitat in the context of ecological restoration and residential landscapes, including the principles of integrated pest management, seasonal garden maintenance, and insect hotels. She also highlights a short list of plants that can offer good insect habitat and nectar resources while serving as vital hosts for insect pollinator species.