Syngenta Turf & Landscape initially ran a pilot project with three golf courses, in partnership with Kate Torgersen from Environmental Golf Solutions. Working with them to establish and manage pollen and nectar rich wildflower areas that will provide essential food resources and nesting habitat for pollinators.
When mentioning pollinators, people often think of the European honeybee and are apprehensive about encouraging bee activity due to potential safety issues. However, Australia has more than 1,700 native bee species, and out of that, only 2% can sting. Most are too small to deliver an effective sting, and Australian native bees are not aggressive. And it is important to remember bees are not the only pollinators. Birds and many other pollinators, including butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, and native insects, also contribute to pollination; these beneficial insects are a key part of the natural food chain and often feed on pest insects.
The next round of Operation Pollinator will be opened to Production Nurseries and a wider scope of sites.