Taking action to protect pollinators at the Logan Square Farmers Market

The treasures on the tables were mouthwatering. Laden with juicy red raspberries, crunchy zucchini, bundles of green onions and herbs, fresh leafy greens, and more, the vendors at the farmers market laughed and chatted with hundreds of people under the warm summer morning sun. What better place is there to talk about the importance of pollinators than amid such an extensive variety of delicious fruits and vegetables?

Environment Illinois staff were at the Logan Square Farmers Market on Sunday, July 23 to talk to members of the Chicago community about how important pollinators are and the threats these critical species face. The main topic of conversation was the Monarch and Pollinators Highway Program. This program could create an incredibly valuable system of wildlife corridors for pollinators nationwide. However, we need Congress to increase the program’s funding to its full intended amount. If they do, we have the opportunity to develop 250,000 acres of pollinator habitat every year. At the farmers market, members of the Chicago community used their political power to urge their government representatives to prioritize funding the program

We had a great time getting to know people who are also passionate about saving bees and other pollinators.  The market-goers that we met included beekeepers, gardeners, community leaders and educators and it was inspiring to hear about actions they are already taking to make their homes and communities more bee-friendly. It was also great to see so many people stop to take action in support of the Monarch and Pollinator Highway Program — all while toting around bags of fresh, delicious food. 

We hope you can join us next time!