Pollinator Meadows

Problem Description: Globally, pollinators are in decline.  Both wild and managed populations face many obstacles such as parasites, pesticides, and loss of floral abundance/diversity as a result of increased land use and occupation.  In addition, habitat destruction has impacted nesting sites for the wild pollinators.

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Solution:  Under the direction of the Friends of Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge (FMNWR), the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club has restored 5 acres of agricultural fields to pollinator meadows.  This restoration project provides habitat for monarch butterflies, bees, and other pollinator insects.  Numerous member and non-member volunteers have worked this project since inception.  If you would like to help, please contact us.

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Benefits:  Established flowering meadows will bloom from spring to late fall, provide nectar, pollen and essential host plants for the migrating monarch butterfly and other native pollinators in the Falmouth / Mashpee area.  

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Cost:  The FMNWR received a grant of $10,000 from the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service.  The FRGC was required to match this grant with in-kind donations of an equal amount.  To date, the FRGC has provided in-kind services of more than $20,000.  In addition, the Club has provided and additional $5,000 to complete necessary work.  

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Timeframe:  The pollinator project work began in the Fall of 2016.

• Q1 2017 - Meadow 1 tree removal; branch trimming; fertilizing; and seeding.  Transplanted donated plants form Spohr Gardens.

• Q2 2017 - Planted 280 shrubs / bushes from Spohr Gardens.  Weeded and prepared 2nd meadow.  Transplanted 25 species of flowering perennials.  AmeriCorps planted meadows 3,4,and 5.

• Q3 2017 - Watered meadows to facilitate plant establishment and growth,  Cut undesirable brushes /   weeds.

• Q4 2017 - Planted flowering perennials, bushes and trees in meadows 3,4,5 and 7.