Pickering Pollinator Project all the buzz with local butterflies and their fans

A City of Pickering-Elexicon Energy Pollinator Project that resulted in the planting of 380 nectar-producing plants and the creation of an educational exhibit at the City’s Central Library was a “great success,” say organizers.

The project, funded by Elexicon’s Corporate Giving Program, brought staff, volunteers, and businesses together to help protect local pollinators. Community groups and volunteers helped plant more than 380 nectar-producing plants in many of Pickering’s pollinator gardens, including the upper and lower gardens at Ernie L. Stroud Park, Rick Hull Memorial Park, Valley Plentiful garden, and Autumn Crescent garden.

Pollinator gardens add diversity to the City’s landscape, provide a food source, and enhance the natural habitat for pollinators.

“Pollinators play an important role in maintaining a healthy environment and sustainable food system,” said Mayor Dave Ryan. “As part of the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge, the City commits to completing a series of actions each year to support pollinator populations. I am incredibly proud of the actions Pickering and its partners have taken to help protect pollinators. By continuing to collaborate and take action, we can make a meaningful difference in our community.”

Elexicon also funded an educational exhibit at the Pickering Central Library where visitors could watch and learn about the lifecycle of Painted Lady butterflies firsthand. Last month, staff from the City and Elexicon released the newly emerged Painted Lady butterflies into the pollinator garden at Esplanade Park, which is cared for by the Pickering Horticultural Society.

“As a core value, Elexicon believes in community health and addressing the effects of climate change on our environment,” said Indrani Butany-DeSouza, President and CEO, Elexicon Energy. “Pollinators play a critical role in preventing biodiversity loss which can pose a major risk to human survival and sustainable development. No action is too small to save our planet.”

Visit pickering.ca/PollinatorAction to learn more.

Painted Lady butterfly