Pollinators, including bees, butterflies, birds, flies, beetles and bats, play an essential role in natural and developed landscapes. Approximately 90 percent of flowering plants and 70 percent of the world’s major crops are estimated to benefit from animal-mediated pollination. However, multiple studies have documented significant declines in populations of pollinators in California and abroad. 

This online course is designed for practitioners interested in managing lands for native pollinators and incorporating pollinator-friendly practices into restoration design. Through lecture videos and a live instructor-led virtual discussion session, you’ll learn the importance of native pollinators and how to identify, build and enhance pollinator landscapes. You’ll also learn fundamental techniques to monitor the performance of habitats designed to promote native pollinators. Principles taught in this course will be applicable to a variety of landscapes, including private and public gardens, rangelands and agricultural areas, managed open space, and renewable energy installations. 

Learning Outcomes 

• Understand native pollinator importance and diversity 
• Understand native pollinator habitat requirements 
• Learn basic principles to plan and manage landscapes to create and improve native pollinator habitat 
• Monitor the performance of habitats designed to promote native pollinators 

Skills You'll Gain 

• Pollinator identification 
• Habitat design and performance monitoring and evaluation