Summer 2017 LOCALadk Magazine 67
LOCALadk
Buy local and organic food. Buy local and organic produce
whenever possible. Conventionally-grown crops often rely on
mono-cropping, which is highly destructive to pollinator habi-
tat. Become a patron of your local farmers market and natural
food stores, and look for the USDA organic label when shop-
ping.
Say no to harmful pesticides and herbicides. Pick weeds by
hand instead of spraying toxic chemicals. Practice sustainable
agriculture. Choose crops that are labeled non-GMO and plant
a diverse group of species throughout your property. Choose
natural pest management over the use of pesticides and in-
secticides. Encourage the development of healthy soils and
a wider variety of crops by planting cover crops, addressing
erosion issues, and limiting tillage.
Beekeeping. Reach out to local beekeepers and associations
to find out if keeping bees is right for you and your property.
Regionally, Local Living Ventures in Canton has a monthly bee
group and the Southern Adirondack Beekeepers Association
has activities in the Albany-Saratoga region.
While pollinators face difficult challenges, there are many
opportunities to create a place for pollinators in the Adiron-
dacks. If you are interested in learning more about the Ad-
irondack Pollinator Project and seeing a full list of events this
summer, please visit www.adkaction.org/pollinators
