Some scientists estimate that one out of every three bites of food is made possible by pollinators like bees, butterflies, moths, birds, bats, beetles, and other insects. Scientists also estimate that about 75% of the world’s flowering plants and about 35% of the world’s food crops depend on pollinators for production. Additionally, pollinators play a key role in contributing to soil health and clean water by fostering robust plant communities. All things considered, the ecological services pollinators provide are valued at $200 billion a year. Unfortunately, pollinator populations are decreasing at alarming rates. The decline in the pollinator population is primarily attributed to a combination of factors, including habitat loss, the spread of diseases and parasites, and exposure to environmental contaminants.
That’s why programs like NC Seed Stewards play an important role. This project is focused on producing NC ecotype wildflowers on the farms of several members of RAFI’s Farmers of Color Network and harvesting that seed for selling to others interested in increasing pollinator habitat. This project was started after an advertising campaign for Burt’s Bees, in which RAFI was contracted to purchase and plant 1,000 wildflower seeds for every customer who bought a container of lip balm. Although it is possible to purchase wildflower seed mixes specialized for the Southeast U.S., not all the seeds in the mixes are NC ecotypes. Because of this, RAFI decided to partner with the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill to determine which native North Carolina species needed to be increased. We currently have three species of NC ecotype wildflowers planted on two farms in North Carolina. Because these plots are strictly for grow out, 100% of the seed they produce can be harvested. When harvesting seed from natural areas, only 20% of seed can be collected to allow for the natural areas to repopulate and expand. Having these grow-out plots also allows farmers participating to attract native pollinators to their farms, add diversity to agroecosystems, and provide new market pathways, which in turn could increase their dollar-per-acre output.
In September of 2024, RAFI, the North Carolina Botanical Garden, and the participating farmers harvested the first seeds from these plots. This harvest was the latest step in the ongoing effort to develop a new seed mix of wildflowers ideally suited to North Carolina’s unique environment. The harvested varieties were wild bergamot, eastern bearded tongue, and mountain mint. In time, RAFI hopes to work with more North Carolina farmers and add additional wildflower species to the project.
The seeds collected during this initial harvest are not only a testament to the collaborative efforts of the farmers and conservationists but also a crucial step in preserving North Carolina’s natural heritage. With each planting season, the project aims to increase biodiversity and create a more sustainable environment for both pollinators and the agricultural community.
As the project expands, RAFI and its partners are looking to engage with local communities through educational workshops and events that highlight the importance of pollinators and the role of native plants in ecosystem health. These initiatives will provide valuable knowledge and resources to those interested in supporting pollinator habitats and will foster a sense of stewardship among participants.
The project also hopes to spark interest among young people, inspiring the next generation of environmentalists and farmers to actively participate in conservation work. Through these efforts, the NC Seed Stewards project not only contributes to the preservation of native species and the enhancement of agricultural lands but also strengthens the bond between people and the environment, ensuring a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.