Parkland Garden Club members and guests attended a meeting to listen to an instructional presentation on creating pollinator houses on Sept. 14 at St. John’s UCC, Fogelsville.

The presenter for the program was Leonard Reed, an eighth grade science teacher and a member of the Emmaus Rotary Club.

He is currently a member of the Rotary District Environmental Sustainability Committee focusing on local, state and international programs and grants.

The program began with information on why pollinators matter to our environment.

They are essential for food security, biodiversity, economic impact and contribute to the life cycle of flowers for beauty and inspiration.

Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, and hummingbirds.

Reed explained that pollinators today face many challenges such as loss of habitat, pesticides, disease and climate change.

So what are pollinator houses?

Reed showed examples of several pollinator houses that he created.

The houses are made from blocks of untreated wood with many holes of various sizes to attract different species.

Other natural materials can be added and secured with wire mesh.

These houses can provide a safe place for pollinators to nest year round.

The placement of the houses is important.

They should be located where they receive morning sun and should be near water and a food source (flowers) and away from any pesticide use.

Reed shared the steps that everyone can take to help protect pollinators.

These include installing pollinator houses, planting native flowers, providing shelter and water and avoiding pesticides,

For more information about the Parkland Garden Club, visit www.parklandgardenclub.com.