SR-189, As Adopted by Senate, June 8, 2016

            Senator Shirkey offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 189.

A resolution recognizing June 20-26, 2016, as Pollinator Week.

Whereas, Pollinator Week will present opportunities to highlight the importance of pollinators; stress the negative ramifications of continued pollinator loss; and encourage the awareness and use of pollinator best practices; and

Whereas, Pollinating animals are essential parts of our ecosystem and a critical component to our planet's food security; and

Whereas, Farmers depend on pollinator species, such as honey bees, butterflies, birds, and bats to successfully produce approximately one-third of all agricultural output in the United States and 50 percent of Michigan’s agricultural output; and

Whereas, Pollinator loss poses a significant threat to United States agriculture and the ability of farmers and rural gardeners to feed both themselves and a growing world population; and

Whereas, Urban and rural beekeepers play an important role in state and federal agricultural production and the preservation of honey bees, which have seen their natural numbers decline to near crisis levels in recent years due to a combination of factors; and

Whereas, Michigan is a leader in honey production and many pollinator-dependent crops, including apples, cranberries, blueberries, and cherries. Agriculture is a key driver of not just Michigan’s agriculture, agritourism, and farm-to-table industries, but also rural economies across the United States; and

Whereas, The state of Michigan recognizes the serious threats posed by pollinator loss and the key role state stakeholders play in providing guidance on best apiary management and stewardship practices, proper use of pesticide products, and technical assistance to farmers and other private landowners; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body recognize June 20-26, 2016, as Pollinator Week in the state of Michigan; and be it further

Resolved, That we encourage the people of the great state of Michigan to build support for protecting and sustaining pollinators through increased awareness and the implementation of pollinator-friendly best practices that enhance their habitat and strengthen our food supply.