Somerville Releases Groundbreaking Pollinator Action Plan

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Division of Public Space and Urban Forestry (PSUF) are proud to announce the release of the City’s comprehensive Pollinator Action Plan, a community-driven initiative aimed at supporting pollinator species within the city’s urban environment. This first-of-its-kind plan for a densely populated city not only sets a new precedent for urban pollinator conservation, but also reflects Somerville’s commitment to addressing the environmental challenges of our time.

“Our pollinators are in crisis,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “Bees, butterflies, beetles, flies, wasps, and other insects that play a crucial role in our ecosystem are facing significant threats. But cities and individuals can make a difference, and this plan gives us the roadmap to do just that. I am inspired by the dedication of our community to take meaningful action in protecting these vital species.”

The Pollinator Action Plan is a unique effort that takes a hyper-local approach to enhancing habitats in Somerville’s landscape. Collaboration between City staff, the consultant team at Offshoots, Inc., entomologist Dr. Nicholas Dorian, and the Pollinator Action Plan Advisory Committee,collaborated to develop a science-based framework for creating pollinator-friendly urban environments. The project team’s meticulous analysis of years of local data grounds the plan in a uniquely robust and specific data set. The plan identifies nearly 300 species currently residing in the city and another 250 that could be supported with improved habitat conditions. Planting recommendations are tailored to provide these species with the plants they need to live and reproduce. “Recipe cards” (garden designs and plant lists) offer a wide range of options for site conditions and desired aesthetics. There is something for everyone.

“The goal is to create habitat, and this plan is useful for the individual porch or yard gardener as well as those creating large public parks,” said Luisa Olivera, Director of Public Space and Urban Forestry. “It offers not only valuable planting recommendations for novices to professionals, but also landscape practices we can all follow to help pollinators. I believe it will be an important resource to increase biodiversity in Somerville and in the region.” 

The Pollinator Action Plan is rooted in Somerville’s ongoing environmental efforts, building on the City’s Native Species Ordinance, Tree Preservation Ordinance, and broader initiatives like Somerville Climate Forward and SomerVision 2040. It outlines strategies to foster pollinator-friendly habitats on both public and private lands. Just as with all environmental efforts in a city as densely developed as Somerville, success will depend on the participation of both city officials and residents.

The plan is designed to be accessible to a wide audience. Whether you’re a backyard gardener or a municipal planner, the Pollinator Action Plan offers clear steps to help pollinators. This includes a myriad of scales from planting a single pot of native plants to converting larger green spaces into pollinator-friendly habitat.

“Our goal is to extend this knowledge beyond our city’s borders,” added Mayor Ballantyne. “The plan is open source, allowing other municipalities to adopt and adapt it to help protect pollinators across the region.”

Somerville’s Pollinator Action Plan is now available to the public and can be viewed on the SomerVoice page: voice.somervillema.gov/somerville-pollinator-action-plan. The City encourages residents to get involved and learn how they can contribute to creating a healthier environment for pollinators in Somerville and beyond. 

A selection of photos is available here. 

Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication, written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures, in order to access the programs and activities of the City of Somerville or to attend meetings, should contact the City’s ADA Coordinator, Adrienne Pomeroy, at 617-625-6600 x2059 or apomeroy@somervillema.gov 

The City of Somerville can provide you with an interpreter in your language for free. To request an interpreter, please contact us at somerviva@somervillema.gov or call 311 (617-666-3311) at least 7 days in advance of this event.