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Pollinators & Beneficial InsectsNative bees, flies, beetles, moths, and butterflies are important pollinators of native plants and agricultural crops, while wasps, beetles, flies, true bugs, and lacewings are natural enemies of the pests that can plague our food and garden plants. Many of these groups are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, pesticide use, climate change impacts, and competition from non-native species. Sustaining these beneficial insects not only aids in their conservation but also creates healthier ecosystems where plant-pollinator interactions are supported and pesticide use is reduced. I design sampling plans and conduct surveys to assess pollinator and beneficial insect populations, investigate diversity, assess floral visitation and resource use, and provide recommendations for habitat elements and management practices that provide nesting, food, and overwintering resources.
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EXPERIENCE
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Surveys
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Active and passive sampling techniques and identification to genus or species to assess abundance and diversity and investigate plant-pollinator interactions.
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Habitat recommendations
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Plant and nesting resources and other habitat elements to include in restoration planning to support pollinators and natural enemies; site management methods to reduce negative impacts on beneficial insects.
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