Looking forward at the Pollinator Preserve

This small exhibit feels huge at times, especially when we realize how much is happening in the garden! We have more than 100 different species of native plants, each carefully selected to meet the needs of the wildlife that visits or lives here. We observe constantly, take notes, and make decisions as we learn from nature. Our 35 volunteers are involved in gardening tasks, guide visitors through the exhibit, assist with signage, support community science projects, and care for the exhibit’s day-to-day needs. I want to take this opportunity to update you on our 21st year in this space and give you a peek at the changes planned for 2025.

Engaging Visitors, Especially Children!

Our volunteers welcomed 6,947 visitors to the Pollinator Preserve this year. Having knowledgeable volunteers on-site has always been a priority for us. They are here to highlight the garden’s activity, answer questions, and engage visitors in meaningful conversations.

We also developed a special tour for the youth attending summer camp. Our experienced guides helped the kids understand insect life cycles and improve their observation skills as they noticed interactions between the plants and insects. Watching them discover garden activity — sometimes spotting insects we hadn’t noticed ourselves — was amazing. Being short in stature has its advantages in this garden!

Working Without a Net

2024 marked our second season without netting over the exhibit. With increased sunlight and freely wandering wildlife, our plants are healthier and insect visits have surged, including more than 40 species of butterflies and moths! Rabbits, frogs, and toads have also moved in. Some of this year’s new insect visitors included wheel bugs and the following caterpillars: wavy-lined emerald moth, red-spotted purple, ruby tiger, and yellow woolly bear.

Exciting improvements are coming for the 2025 season. This exhibit was originally planned as a one-season display to teach visitors about butterflies. Now, 20 years later, we’ll remove the poles that once supported the netting. The main entrance, initially designed to guide visitors in and out without letting the butterflies escape, will also be removed. Look for these changes over the winter.

More Improvements Fueled by Donations

And there’s more! Thanks to two generous donors, we now have funds to include some needed improvements. Plans include a new shelter for volunteers, storage for supplies, a small gathering space with seating for visitors and volunteers, and improvements to our pathways — now an annual need. Other ideas are flowing and under consideration. While not every change may be ready for the 2025 season, you’ll definitely notice improvements!