ASTA Celebrates Pollinator Week

June 19: The American Seed Trade Association supports the importance of National Pollinator Week and the efforts to raise the awareness of the vital role that our nation’s pollinators play in agriculture production and the health of our world. Bees, insects and other pollinators provide the very foundation for plant agriculture.

“The American Seed Trade Association is pleased to see recognition from the Obama Administration, the U.S. Senate and a broad array of National Pollinator Week supporters who understand the importance of pollinators to the agriculture industry,” ASTA President and CEO Andy LaVigne said. “The seed industry is committed to partnering with the USDA to increase research on various issues impacting honey bee health.”

ASTA members are at the forefront of increasing pollinator habitat and forage by supplying seeds to grow a wide range of native and pollinator friendly plants on many types of public and private lands. ASTA also supports the Highways BEE Act, H.R. 4790, introduced by Representatives Alcee Hastings (D-FL) and Jeff Denham (R-CA), which encourages state highway transportation agencies to use land management practices that increase pollinator habitat.

In addition, ASTA is a member of the Honey Bee Health Coalition and a supporter of the Pollinator Partnership in order to be part of larger efforts to raise awareness of the importance of pollinators.

“Our broad membership, including our vegetable and flower companies, depends on pollinators to produce high quality seed for America’s farmers, ranchers and gardeners,” LaVigne said. “We will continue to be strong advocates for ensuring America’s pollinators have what they need to thrive.”