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What you can do AT HOME You want to drive change on behalf of pollinators, and we can help! Please keep reading to learn more about simple things you can do at home and in the garden to protect pollinators! Landscape with Native Plants You may be wondering what all the fuss around native plants is about. Aren't all flowers good for pollinators? As it turns out, not all flowers are created equally when it comes to pollinators! The bees, moths, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bats that are native to a particular region often specialize in flowering plants that are also native to the area. These pollinators and plants "grew up" together through evolutionary time, so native pollinators have adapted to use native flowers and may not even recognize some non-natives as a food source. In addition, European honeybees (the ones you see all over) are not native to North America! Of course, we love all bees, but it's still important to know that these honeybees have the potential to compete with native pollinators because of their large numbers, adaptability as generalists (able to use many species of flowers for food and pollen), and more extensive ranges. By using primarily native plants in your outdoor space, you are leveling the playing field and creating critical habitat for native pollinators! (Plus, native plants are often more pest, drought, and even fire-resistant, which means less work for you!) Native plants for your garden Pollinator-friendly nurseries Manage Your Space Organically Pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides are all toxic to pollinators (not to mention you!). Even if the packaging claims to be pollinator-safe or pollinator-friendly, the chemicals found in these treatments make their way into the plants they're applied to and are then consumed by pollinators through pollen, nectar, and surface oils. While the toxics may not kill pollinators outright, they can cause physiological and neurological issues that impact the pollinator's ability to navigate, reproduce, and fight off infection and disease. Managing your outdoor spaces organically (without the use of pesticides) is critical to keeping pollinators safe. Buy Organic Produce If it's important to manage your garden without the use of pesticides, it's even more critical that we manage our expansive agricultural spaces organically as well. By buying organic produce you are supporting farms that do not use pollinator-toxic chemicals. Maintain Your Garden (for pollinators!) One of the most valuable and easiest things you can do to support pollinators and other invertebrates is to provide them with the leaves and stems they need for winter cover and food. Leaving even small piles of dead plant material around your yard can be crucial for ne sting bees! And don't forget to leave some bare earth for ground nesting bees. Spread the word about the steps you've taken in your outdoor space by including a pollinator habitat yard sign in your garden! This is a super easy way to engage your neighbors in the conversation, too! Learn more about nesting materials Learn more about our habitat signs

Many pro-pollinator businesses support PPAN because their bottom line depends on the healthy environment and biodiversity that PPAN fights for every day. Pro-Pollinator Business Partners PPAN is proud to be a vetted Environmental Partner of the 1% for the Planet network! Both financial and in-kind donations to PPAN qualify for 1% for the Planet and B Corp Certification philanthropic goals. Many pro-pollinator businesses support PPAN because their bottom line depends on the healthy environment and biodiversity that PPAN fights for every day. A donation to PPAN is also a sound investment in your brand's mission, values, and visibility. Featured business partners receive profiles in our newsletter, which reaches more than 12,000 Coloradans, as well as on our website and social media accounts. Contact Emily KenCairn, Director of Development & Communications to discuss partnership opportunities . And please patronize these businesses to support pollinators! Thank You To PPAN's Current Business & Foundation Partners! One Hive Foundation One Hive Foundation logo. Clif Family Foundation Clif Family Foundation logo Justin's Nut Butters Justin's logo Natural Resources Defense Council NRDC logo Bee Squared Apiaries Bee Squared Apiaries logo The Sunnybug Farmette Bees & Trees Bees & Trees logo Rob's Native Plants Lyons Farmette Lyons Farmette logo The Apiarian Home The Apiarian Home Colorado Insurors Services, Inc. Colorado Insurors Services, Inc. logo Continuum Consulting Services Continuum Consulting Services logo Koelle Tiny Farms Koelle Tiny Farms logo Osborne Organics Osborne Organics logo Weirdo Swarm Weirdo Swarm Charity Logo Wild Birds Unlimited Wild Birds Unlimited Colorado Springs logo Thank You To Our Current In-Kind Donors! These pollinator champions make our work possible through their generosity ~ please support them with your dollars! We love to partner with pollinator-friendly businesses! Send us a message to inquire about partnering with PPAN. Also, check out this directory of pollinator-safe nurseries, seed companies, and landscaping service providers. View Directory First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thank you for your message!

Senator Steve Fenberg recently introduced our bill to restore control to local governments in regards to the use and application of pesticides. This bill empowers communities to respond in a timely manner to pesticide-related risks to public health or to the environment. PESTICIDE PREEMPTION REPEAL BILL PESTICIDE PREEMPTION REPEAL BILL Senator Steve Fenberg recently introduced our bill to restore control to local governments in regards to the use and application of pesticides. This bill empowers communities to respond in a timely manner to pesticide-related risks to public health or to the environment. Read the bill below:

We can only change the trajectory for pollinators (and our planet!) by making sure that people are aware of their importance and how we can protect them. RESOURCES FOR THE SEED & BEE SEED SWAP AND GIVEAWAY RESOURCES Colorado Native Seed Starting Guide Germination Information for Seeds Native Perennial Bloom Season Easy-to-grow Xeric Plants for Pollinators Bee Basics How to Make Bee Houses Bee Block Recipe Other Pollinator Resources

SUPPORT OUR WORK Your support makes all the difference in our ability to protect pollinators and public health in Colorado — thank you! OTHER WAYS TO GIVE Order Protect Pollinator License Plates Mail a check to PO Box 355 Niwot, CO 80544 Become a business sponsor Buy Books! 10% of Your Purchase Goes Directly to PPAN. Ask your employer to match your gift through Benevity, NPO Connect, or other matching gift platform. Gift stock or other assets Planned, DAF, or IRA Giving Questions? emily@peopleandpollinators.org

Find out what People and Pollinators Action Network has been accomplishing in our news blog. NEWS STAY UP-TO-DATE ON PPAN HAPPENINGS HERE & ON SOCIAL MEDIA No Tricks, Just Treats: Why Spiders Belong in Your Garden Webinar Recording and Resources Spiders get top billing every Halloween as creepy decorations, but there's much more to them than cobwebs and scares. View the recording and resources below to explore the role spiders play in our gardens and their connections to pollinators and the wider ecosystem. You'll come away with simple ways to support spiders in your everyday life, and you might just start seeing these eight-legged neighbors in a whole new light! Learn more on Daniel's YouTube Channel, Arachnorion! T Healthy Schoolyards Initiative Please join PPAN as we launch our Healthy Schoolyards Initiative! Check out our Healthy Schoolyards Initiative Webinar to learn about the glaring hole in Colorado's pesticide safety regulations, why it matters, and what you can do about it. Plus, browse the resources below and get involved! Healthy Schoolyards Initiative Resources Healthy Schoolyards Initiative Webpage Advocacy Action Checklist Regulatory Landscape of Pesticides Join the Coalition! Thank You to Our Speakers! Colorado Takes Executive Action to Protect Pollinators! Signing of the Executive Order Directing Directing the Protection of Colorado's Pollinators. After nearly 8 years of advocacy and partnership working with the Governor's Office towards this Order, we are thrilled to announce that today, September 16, 2026, Governor Polis signed a new Executive Order, directing Colorado state agencies to take coordinated action to protect and support Colorado's pollinators. PPAN's Executive Director Joyce Kennedy, co-founder Rella Abernathy, a Meet the Pollinators You've Been Swatting Away Webinar When we talk about pollinators, bees and butterflies typically come to mind– but they're far from the whole story. Join PPAN and the Butterfly Pavilion for a closer look at one of nature's most under appreciated pollinators: flies! Across gardens, farms, and wild edges, flies are moving pollen; and in higher elevations, they are some of our most important pollinators. In this webinar, you'll explore the ecology and life history of the order Diptera, their role in pollination Planting Party for Pollinators Hey Neighbor, a 2025 Habitat Fund Grantee, is 5 planting parties in, and the Stratton Meadows neighborhood is starting to transform into an edible, beautiful, and water-wise oasis. On May 30th, 20 volunteers, including Hey Neighbor staff, Stratton Meadows neighbors, Colorado College students, and Fountain Creek Watershed staff spent six hours transforming the front yard of neighbor Joel Adams. Together, they planted 60 shrubs and perennials, including fruit trees, berry bushe Understanding and Protecting Fireflies in Colorado with Dr. Orit Peleg In this webinar with CU Boulder's Dr. Orit Peleg of The Peleg Lab, we dive into the fascinating world of fireflies—their biology, their language of light, the threats putting them at risk, and how to protect them at home and in your community. Business Sponsor Spotlight: The Apiarian Home The Apiarian Home is a beeswax fragrance and apitherapy business based in Fort Collins. Their five fragrances are inspired by the intelligence of a honeybee colony. Each scent is drawn from a role and place within the colony. Like the hive itself, they are designed to collectively support your daily rhythms and rituals. Together, they form a holistic collection to bring the essence of nature into your home. Buy some of Apiarian Home products! A portion of every sale goes dir Happy Colorado Pollinator Month! Governor Polis has designated June as Colorado Pollinator Month to celebrate and raise awareness about the important roles that pollinators play in preserving biodiversity; agricultural productivity; and in sustaining the health of ourselves and our ecosystems! Join us in June each year for educational programs, community events, and conservation efforts throughout the state! AND, bring a friend to help spread awareness about how to ensure the health of these essential specie Mosquito Control: Science, Risks, and Solutions Webinar With a flier in the mail or a door-to-door sales visit, you’ll notice many mosquito control companies offering to spray your yard this time of year. Though this may seem like a quick and easy way to deal with mosquitoes, it’s often an ineffective control strategy. Worse, these insecticides are toxic to pollinators and other beneficial insects and may pose a risk to people, too. Check out the webinar recording below to learn about the risks residential mosquito sprays pose to Beat the Bite: 6 Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away This Season Mosquitoes are annoying at best and a real health concern at worst— even though they are technically pollinators. But you don't have to just put up with them. A few targeted changes around your home and yard can dramatically cut down on bites with no chemicals required. Create a biodiverse landscape with native plants to encourage beneficial wildlife and natural mosquito predators, such as birds, bats and dragonflies . Eliminate standing water regularly from your property whe HB26-1132: Practices to Support Pollinators Approved by the Legislature! The legislative body has demonstrated a meaningful commitment to the conservation and restoration of our scenic landscapes– making Colorado even more colorful by passing, HB26-1332 Practices to Support Pollinators. What the Law Will Mean The 2024 Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Health Study made something clear: habitat loss and non-native plants are some of the primary drivers of pollinator decline in Colorado. It also pointed to what the state should do about it– priori How Flowers Made Our World Webinar Flowers are revolutionaries. When flowering plants evolved, they swiftly transformed the planet, and their productivity sustains much of life today. From rainforests to prairies to seagrass meadows, much of the Earth’s diversity is now directly dependent on flowering plants. Without flowers, primates would not have evolved and our ancestors would never have ventured beyond the forest in grasslands. Using examples from his latest book, How Flowers Made Our World, David Haskell What’s on Your Plate? A Quick Guide to the Dirty Dozen Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) puts out its Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce , highlighting what’s known as the “ Dirty Dozen ”, a list of fruits and veggies that tend to carry the highest levels of pesticide residues. Photo from EWG. And it’s not just obscure items—it’s some of our everyday staples. Strawberries, spinach, kale, grapes, apples… foods many of us toss into our carts without a second thought. To be clear, this isn’t about scaring anyon Say NO 🚨 to PFAS on CO public lands and YES to growing, eating, growing and legislating native plants! Happy spring, pollinator people! As the equinox approaches, we hope you're finding that elusive balance between care for the earth and concern for our fellow earthlings. If you do find yourself wavering, we invite you to go outside and say hello to an emerging plant, look for the first buzzing insects (who will definitely be out and about with this week's high temps), and support pollinators in whatever ways you can—through loving , learning , and supporting policies that pr Safer, Not Sicker: Why Strong Protections from Toxic Chemicals Matter Under the Trump administration, the office that approves pesticides remains fully staffed and moving faster than ever. The office that fact-checked those approvals is gone. The EPA has eliminated its Office of Research and Development — the division responsible for the independent science used to evaluate industry-submitted safety claims — while accelerating pesticide approvals , renewing approval of the drift-prone herbicide dicamba , and invoking the Defense Production Ac Tell Food Companies to Reject GMO Wheat! Post written by Friends of the Earth . What if you found out the wheat in your bread, pasta, and cereal was genetically engineered and sprayed with a TOXIC herbicide? This could soon become our reality if we don’t act. A new kind of genetically engineered (GMO) wheat was just approved in the U.S., and we need to stop it before it enters our food system. This new GMO wheat – called HB4 – is engineered to tolerate glufosinate, a highly toxic herbicide banned in the European Un Edible Native Plants of Colorado Webinar Discover how Colorado’s native plants can nourish both people and pollinators! In this webinar, we’ll dive into Colorado-native plants you can eat, why they matter for local ecosystems, and how to grow vegetables in ways that actively support pollinators. Participants will gain region-specific guidance, garden design tips, and actionable steps to create productive gardens that give back to wildlife. View Idelle's Slides | View Rob's Slides Thank you to our speakers! Idelle F Bee Survival Struggles: The Role of Neonics Webinar Check out this webinar from the Seed We Need Coalition, NRDC, the Pueblo County Beekeepers Association, and PPAN on Bee Survival Struggles: The Role of Neonics . This webinar features Judy Wu-Smart from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Judy Wu-Smart has degrees in Zoology and Entomology, and she has researched the effects of pesticide residue accumulation in brood comb on honey bee health. Her PhD research examined the effects of systemic neonicotinoid insecticides on hon Today is the day to Save the SEED Act ☎️ + Pollinator News & Events Hi there, changemakers. The "Strengthening Economic and Environmental Decisions" (SEED) Act—SB26-065—needs your help today. The CO Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee will vote this Thursday (2/26) on whether to kill the bill in Committee or send it on for a full debate on the Senate floor. Now is the time to call the members of the 'Ag Committee' and tell them why you want them to advance SB26-065 (sponsored by Senators Wallace and Kipp and Representatives Brow Inside the Colorado Legislature: Pollinator Protection in the 2026 Session Webinar & Resources Colorado’s 2026 legislative session is underway– and several important bills could have lasting impacts on pollinators, wildlife, and native habitats. The webinar will feature: An overview of the legislative process and the legislative outlook A closer look at three of PPAN’s Legislative Priorities: Native Plant Bill, HB26-1132 : expanding state access to and use of native plants Rodenticide Bill, SB26-062 : prohibiting toxic rodenticides The SEED Act, SB26-065 : limiting us From vegetables to a community by Becky Dickson By Rebecca Dickson, PPAN board chair and vice chair of the Sierra Club-Indian Peaks Group Our city and our nation face many challenges right now: concerns about the environment, locally, nationally, internationally; issues with the quality of our food, from pesticide toxins to forever chemicals to microplastics. And nutritious food is more expensive than ever. On top of this, the national turmoil just does not stop. It can leave us all feeling alienated and alone and powerle Time to call your legislators for pollinators & environmental health ☎️ Through the Colorado Environmental Health Coalition, PPAN is supporting 9 important bills—from pesticides to plastic pollution to wildlife to energy systems. Read on for ways to get involved and more pollinator news! 🐝 📰 😊 Read our February 10th Newsletter below: Hi there, Colorado ~ During last November's Pollinator Summit, the audience was polled, and only 17% of those present expressed interest in advocacy, but almost 70% were interested in habitat work. You can't have International Women’s Beekeeping Day: Following What We Love, Building What’s Possible International Women’s Beekeeping Day is a chance to celebrate the women who care for bees, steward land, and show up every day for pollinators — often simply by following what they love. Photo from Loveland Reporter-Herald. For many women in beekeeping, the work has never been about breaking barriers for the sake of it. It’s been about curiosity, care, and commitment. As PPAN board member and longtime beekeeper Beth Conrey shared, “I just did what I loved — [it] had nothing Glyphosate Safety Study Retracted Due to Ethics Problems Photo from U.S. Right to Know A new piece from U.S. Right to Know just revealed that a major scientific study used to justify glyphosate’s safety has been retracted over serious ethics issues. It turns out the “independent” authors were actually Monsanto employees, quietly advancing the pesticide industry’s agenda. If you want the full story, you can check out the article here . READ THE ARTICLE! Save Beer! 🍻 Why removing toxic pesticides matters — even for your favorite pint Photo from Green America. Here in Colorado, beer isn’t just a drink -- it’s part of our culture. From local taprooms and festivals to mountain hikes capped off with a cold one, beer brings people together. But behind every brew is an agricultural system that can either help or harm our environment. That’s why PPAN, along with other aligned organizations, is proud to partner with Green America's “Save Beer!” c The Pollinators of the Night: Why Bats Matter & How To Support Them Webinar and Resources From sustaining desert ecosystems to supporting agricultural economies, bats are essential pollinators and pest managers. Yet, their contributions are often overlooked, and many species face growing threats. Join PPAN by checking out the webinar below with Dr. Kristen Lear, Director of Bat Conservation International’s (BCI) Agave Restoration Initiative. Dr. Lear will highlight the ways bats support biodiversity and human well-being, share updates on BCI’s conservation work, a Growing Climate Leaders: Pollinators at the DPS Fall Garden Festival Last week, we had the joy of joining the Denver Public Schools (DPS) Sustainability Team at their Fall Garden Festival—a celebration of... Celebrating a Decade of Pollinator Progress at the 10th Annual Colorado Pollinator Summit: Empowered for Pollinators We are thrilled to announce the 10th Annual Colorado Pollinator Summit , taking place November 13–14, 2025 , at Williams Village, CU... PPAN's Annual Bumblebee Bash Thank you all for a great 2025 Bumble Bee Bash! We surpassed our fundraising goal and had so much fun celebrating with you all! 🥂🐝🥂... Back to School: Kids and Pollinators–Creating a Statewide Movement Webinar & Resources School’s almost back in session, which is a great time to talk about how we can make schoolyards safer and healthier for both kids and... Pollinators Meet Grasshopper & Mormon Cricket Management Webinar & Resources You might be repelled by grasshoppers or Mormon crickets, but can you take a moment to learn about their surprising ecological value... Community Science in Action: Exploring Nature with iNaturalist Webinar Check out PPAN's June 2025 webinar below to discover how community science supports biodiversity and pollinators. PPAN Board Member and... June is Colorado Pollinator Month – Let’s Celebrate! Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and bats keep our ecosystems—and our food systems—thriving. Every June, Colorado takes time to celebrate our pollinators and the many ways we can help protect them. View our main Colorado Pollinator Month page for all of the upcoming events this year: Thanks to years of advocacy and partnership, June has officially been recognized as Colorado Pollinator Month since 2017. People and Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) worked with Governor Joh Pollinators After Dark: How Light Pollution Impacts the Night Shift Webinar Recording & Resources When we think of pollinators, bees and butterflies usually come to mind—but there's a whole other crew that works the night shift. Moths,... Cultivating Change: How Gardening In Your Place Grows the World Better Webinar Takeaways How is gardening a tool for social and political change? What does it mean to say "gardening is for everyone" in this time and place?... Gardening for Reptiles & Amphibians Webinar Recording Are snakes cute? Cameron Young from My Nature Lab seems to think so! Ecosystems are full of complex, layered interactions - even... Native Plants in Permaculture Webinar Recording & Resources Just as Amy Scanes-Wolfe mentioned in PPAN's Native Plants in Permaculture webinar on February 27th, there is no such thing as "leave no... PPAN's Legislative Breakfast On January 24th, 2025, PPAN had the honor of hosting a Legislative Breakfast for Colorado state legislators, bringing together a room... Propagation in Practice: Expert Panel Perspectives Webinar Resources Watch the recording and access resources shared during this popular webinar on native plant propagation at home. We have work to do, together. As Robin Wall Kimmerer reminds us in The Serviceberry, “The practice for dealing with abundance is to give it away.” Organic Turf Park Transitions As we close out the summer season, PPAN is excited to announce new wins for organic turf transitions at the municipal level. The cities... Help Us Prove That Pesticides Are Overused in Ag — Tell Your Farmer Friends! What’s bad for bugs is bad for birds, as our partner organization, the American Bird Conservancy (ABC), well knows! ABC is launching its... A Full Fall for Pollinator Conservation Greetings PPAN Community, Between this week’s Harvest Moon, the chickadees and goldfinches going crazy over the sunflowers, and the... Ways to Support PPAN! Reading and Roadtripping to Support Pollinators We are thrilled to be launching PPAN’s online bookshop , where 10% of every purchase you... A Celebration of Community & Biodiversity Despite the record heat and drought we’re experiencing, we have so much to celebrate this month (July)! Reflecting on a very successful... Northglenn's Fox Run Natural Area Check out the demonstration garden at Fox Run Natural Area in Northglenn. This demo garden was installed in partnership with the City of... 2024 Habitat Fund Grantees We're excited to announce our 2024 pool of Habitat Fund grantees! This second round of grant-making was a difficult one as we were... Your Favorite New Tee! Now through June 30 th you can purchase this soft, sustainable, Allmade , heavyweight tee—with a trendy unisex fit—sure to become a... Local Control Bill, Dead We heard your voices clearer than ever this year—and we thank you! We thank all of you who contacted your legislators and local leaders,... Invertebrates & Rare Plants Bill Passes! We are thrilled to inform you that House Bill 24-1117 — the bill that adds rare plants and invertebrates to the species that may be... 1 2 3

Tbhank you for signing the pollinator pledge with People and Pollinators! Thanks for signing the Pollinator Pledge and helping save our pollinators! We will be adding you to our Pollinator Pledge Map in about 24 hours. Learn more about how to create a Pollinator-Safe Property and find lists of suitable plants to support pollinators at: More Play, Less Spray Tips VIEW THE MAP » CO Native Plant Society XERCES.org Here is a printable Certificate you can print and sign and share:

NATIVE PLANTS OF COLORADO Native Plants of Colorado Colorado is home to an incredible diversity of native plants. These plants evolved here, which means they're built for Colorado's climate, soil, and wildlife (and they don't need much help from us once they're established). Native plants help us: Save water : deep root systems allow native plants to thrive on natural rainfall, making them a smart choice in our drought-prone state. Feed pollinators : bees, butterflies, and other pollinators have co-evolved with these plants and depend on them for food and survival. Support wildlife habitat : native plants provide food and shelter for birds, beneficial insects, and other critters that keep our ecosystems in balance. Build healthier soils : their root systems improve soil structure and help capture carbon over time. What Should You Plant? The best native plants for your yard depend on where in Colorado you live– elevation, sun exposure, and soil type all matter. Use the map below to explore plant recommendations and find native plant nurseries in your region. Bee icons mark any native and pesticide-free plant nurseries that PPAN is currently aware of, and the regions can help you find your growing region within the state of Colorado. Use the buttons below the map to explore some suggested native plants for each location. Explore the Western Slope Explore Mountains (7,500ft+) Explore the Southeast Explore the Front Range Explore Plains & Prairie Front Range Native Plants Native plants that call the Front Range home are uniquely adapted to a mix of prairie and mountainous landscapes. Plants here are well adapted to high elevation, semi-arid and very sunny climates. Common Name Scientific Name Mature Size Water Exposure Wildlife Value Common Yarrow (perennial) Achillea millefolium (A.lanatum) 18”x18” low-medium sun/part shade Native pollinators, bees, and butterflies Rabbitbrush (perennial) Ericameria nauseosa (Chrysothamus nauseosus) 4’x3’ low Plains and Prairie Native Plant List The Colorado Prairie is dominated by shortgrass prairie and wildflower. Taller grasses appear in swathes, and big cottonwood trees cast their shade over rivers and creeks that run through the plains. The majority of plants here have co-evolved with range animals, they send roots deep down into the soil and are able to survive low water availability and intense grazing. When conditions are right, they become vibrant with beauty. Common Name Scientific Name Mature Size Water Ex Mountains 7,500'+ Native Plants Colorado’s mountainous region is home to immense beauty, but can be quite limited. The summer season is short and life in the rockies is harsh. Plants are exposed to cool nights, harsh sunlight, and high winds. The soils they in are nutritionally low, well draining, and get more precipitation than other Colorado plants. These plants, while their season is short, can be remarkably beautiful. Common Name Scientific Name Mature Size Water Exposure Wildlife Value Black Eyed Susan Western Slope Native Plants Classified as a semi-arid desert shrubland, gardening and farming in the Western Slope poses unique challenges. The region has low humidity, and low precipitation as well as alkaline soils that drain poorly. Summers are hot and nights are cold. Plants here are well adapted to these conditions and can thrive in the harsh climate characteristic of the Western Slope, and planting native allows for the beautiful blooming and greening that happens around monsoon season. Common Nam Southeast CO Native Plants This region of Colorado is the hottest and driest region in the state. Experiencing over 60 days above 90 degrees, and very little precipitation, only select plants can thrive well here. The use of native plants in this region enhances natural beauty, and provides for the 400+ species birds that utilize this region as a migratory layover and conserves precious water resources. Common Name Scientific Name Mature Size Water Exposure Wildlife Value Crested Prickly Poppy Argemone You can find additional plant lists from these organizations: Colorado Native Plant Society Pollinator Safe Habitat Guide Wild Ones Landscaping with Native Plants PPAN Plant List XERCES.org Sources Drought Planting Guide for the Colorado Front Range. (2026, February 17). Finding Nectar. https://findingnectar.com/blogs/news/drought-planting-guide-for-the-colorado-front-range Sherman, P. (2026a, January 14). Top Pollinator Plants for CO Front Range Mountain Home Gardens and Landscapes. Mountain Resilience Substack. https://mountainresilience.substack.com/p/top-pollinator-plants-for-co-front Sherman, P. (2026b, January 22). Pollinator Habitat Assessment for Mountain and other Rural Homes. Mountain Resilience Substack. https://mountainresilience.substack.com/p/pollinator-habitat-assessment-for

In response to CO Senate Bill 22-199, the CO Department of Natural Resources has commissioned a study on native pollinating insects. COLORADO NATIVE POLLINATING INSECTS HEALTH STUDY Learn more about Colorado insects on this interactive map. Roll over or click on the insects to learn more and also view the Pollinator Study and the state bill that made it possible. Insects, often underestimated, play a remarkable role in our state's landscapes. Not only are they cool, but they are also vital contributors to essential ecosystem services. From pollination to waste decomposition, insects support Colorado's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers. Join us as we delve into the world of this fascinating wildlife and learn about the Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Study (2024) report! Margined Calligrapher Syrphid Flies (Toxomerus marginatus) are widely distributed across North America, from Canada to Mexico. LEARN MORE Rollover the insects above to learn about them Illustrations by Faith Williams Dyrsten The Colorado Hairstreak butterfly (Hypaurotis crysalus) became our official state insect in 1996, thanks to a campaign led by Colorado 4th graders! LEARN MORE Tegeticula yuccasella , a species of Yucca Moth , shares an important mutualistic relationship with Soapweed Yucca. LEARN MORE Bombus occidentalis, the Western Bumblebee , inhabits a wide array of environments in western North America—from lowland agricultural areas to high alpine meadows. LEARN MORE The Pueblo Digger Bee (Anthophora pueblo) is named in honor of the ancestral Pueblo peoples, who built cliff dwellings in the Four Corners region more than 700 years ago. LEARN MORE The Blue Orchard Bee (Osmia lignaria) stands out with its eye-catching metallic blue-black color LEARN MORE American Rubyspot damselflies (Hetaerina americana) add a splash of color to stream and river habitats across North America. LEARN MORE Dufourea maura (Black Short-faced Bees) are specialists on one of Colorado’s most eye-catching wildflowers – the Harebell (Campanula sp. )! LEARN MORE Agapostemon coloradinus (the Colorado Striped Sweat Bee ) is a colorful creature named after a colorful state! LEARN MORE Great Sand Dunes Tiger Beetles (Cicindela theatina) , named for their distinctive coloring and predatory behaviors, are found only in Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park. LEARN MORE The Snowberry Clearwing Moth (Hemaris diffinis) has dramatic transparent wings, fuzzy striped bodies, and a hovering flight pattern. LEARN MORE Xenoglossa strenua is one species of solitary, ground-nesting bees commonly known as Squash Bees. LEARN MORE Vella fallax belongs to a group of insects called Antlions. Larvae construct pit traps in loose soil and lie in wait just beneath the surface for ants or other insects to fall in. LEARN MORE Parallel Leaf Cutter Bee (Megachile parallela ) is a solitary species with remarkable architectural skills and a strong preference for sunflowers. LEARN MORE The Hunt Bumble Bee (Bombus huntii ) is one of Colorado’s distinctive medium sized bumblebees with a colorful rust-orange band on their fuzzy rump. LEARN MORE Though not native to North America, honey bees (Apis mellifera ) have become integral to Colorado's agricultural landscape, particularly in alfalfa production across the state's eastern plains. LEARN MORE The Twelve Spotted Skimmer (Libellula pulchella ) is a large, conspicuous dragonfly commonly found around Colorado's ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams where sedges grow along the water's edge. LEARN MORE The Uncompahgre Fritillary (Boloria acrocnema ) is one of Colorado’s rarest butterflies and is federally listed as an Endangered Species. LEARN MORE VIEW STUDY PDF Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Health Study Top 5 State Priorities: Protect Imperiled Native Pollinating Insects Protect, Restore, and Connect Pollinator Habitats Mitigate Environmental Changes that Negatively Impact Pollinators and their Habitats Reduce the Risks from Pesticides to Pollinating Insects Monitor and Support Native & Managed Pollinator Health Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Health Study Leads: In 2022, People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) championed CO Senate Bill 22-199 at the legislature, in which the CO Department of Natural Resources commissioned a study on our state's native pollinating insects. Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Health Study Outcomes 2026: Practices to Support Pollinators Bill (HB26-1132) prioritizes the use of native plants on state-owned lands. 2025: Invertebrates & Rare Plants included and prioritized in Colorado's new State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) 2025: Creation of Colorado Parks & Wildlife Invertebrate and Rare Plant Program, including 6 new CPW positions 2024: Invertebrates & Rare Plants Bill (HB24-117, championed by PPAN and partners) recognizes invertebrates as wildlife in Colorado and mandates their inclusion of species to be studied and protected STUDY FACT SHEET FULL BILL TEXT VIEW STUDY PDF STUDY WEBPAGE STUDY-DETAILS COLORADO STATE WILDLIFE ACTION PLAN (SWAP) SPOTLIGHT For the first time ever, invertebrates are included in the 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) update! This is significant because it acknowledges their vital role in ecosystems (e.g., pollination, nutrient cycling, and serving as food sources for animals) and highlights the species most in need of conservation before they become endangered. The SWAP's science-based framework for research, monitoring, and habitat protection can support these often overlooked and essential species. In fact, the SWAP includes more invertebrates and rare plants than any other taxonomic group! This is due to Colorado House Bill 24-1117, the Invertebrates & Rare Plants Bill (championed by PPAN and partners), which recognized invertebrates as wildlife in Colorado. This officially gave CPW the authority to mandate and study invertebrates. EXPLORE THE SWAP! The Pueblo Digger Bee (Anthophora pueblo) is named in honor of the ancestral Pueblo peoples, who built cliff dwellings in the Four Corners region more than 700 years ago. LEARN MORE INSECTS FROM THE MAP INCLUDED IN THE SWAP AS SPECIES OF GREATEST CONSERVATION NEED (SGCN) The Colorado Hairstreak butterfly (Hypaurotis crysalus) became our official state insect in 1996, thanks to a campaign led by Colorado 4th graders! LEARN MORE Bombus occidentalis, the Western Bumblebee , inhabits a wide array of environments in western North America—from lowland agricultural areas to high alpine meadows. LEARN MORE The Pueblo Digger Bee (Anthophora pueblo) is named in honor of the ancestral Pueblo peoples, who built cliff dwellings in the Four Corners region more than 700 years ago. LEARN MORE Great Sand Dunes Tiger Beetles (Cicindela theatina) , named for their distinctive coloring and predatory behaviors, are found only in Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park. LEARN MORE The Uncompahgre Fritillary (Boloria acrocnema ) is one of Colorado’s rarest butterflies and is federally listed as an Endangered Species. LEARN MORE READ ABOUT ALL OF THESE NATIVE POLLINATING INSECTS Pachydiplax longipennis, Blue Dasher Pachydiplax longipennis—which translates to something like thick-double-long-winged one in Latin— is a prime example of nature's mosquito management crew. The Blue Dasher will spend most of it's life in the nymph (waterborne) stage, during which time it can eat anywhere from dozens to hundreds of mosquito larvae per day (depending on how many are available at the pond buffet). Some dragonfly nymphs have been observed living up to 5 years before maturing to their relatively br Bombus nevadensis, Nevada Bumble Bee The Nevada Bumble Bee, Bombus nevadensis, is the quintessential flying teddy bear bumbling through your garden. Look for Bombus queens emerging from their underground nests in late spring—which could be quite soon with this year’s warm weather! Relatively common, B. nevadensis has been documented from Mexico to Alaska, as far East as Wisconsin, and from the prairie to above 7,000 ft. Early blooming flowers are critical for bumblebee queens’ survival when they emerge after Xenoglossa strenua, Squash Bee Xenoglossa strenua is one species of solitary, ground-nesting bees commonly known as Squash Bees . They are specialist pollinators, relying almost exclusively on one type of plant -in this case, squashes, pumpkins, and gourds. The adults are attracted to the distinctive scent of the flowers and can be found foraging around dawn. Their activity tapers off by mid-morning, though sleepy males may be found resting inside the flowers throughout the day. Females prefer to dig indiv Vella fallax, Antlion Vella fallax belongs to a group of insects called Antlions . The relatively large size of the adults might seem intimidating; however, they are completely harmless to humans, feeding primarily on nectar and pollen. It is the larvae that have helped them earn their predatory name! They construct pit traps in loose soil and lie in wait just beneath the surface. When ants or other insects fall in, the larva grabs its prey with massive, curved jaws and drags it underground to Megachile parallela, Parallel Leaf Cutter Bee The Parallel Leaf Cutter Bee ( Megachile parallela ) is a solitary species with remarkable architectural skills and a strong preference for sunflowers, particularly Nuttall's sunflower found throughout Colorado's plains and foothills. Females use their powerful mandibles to cut precise semicircular pieces from leaves, which they carry back to their nests tucked under their bodies. These leaf fragments are used to construct waterproof brood cells within existing cavities like Libellula pulchella, Twelve Spotted Skimmer The Twelve Spotted Skimmer ( Libellula pulchella ) is a large, conspicuous dragonfly commonly found around Colorado's ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams where sedges grow along the water's edge. Males are territorial, perching on prominent sedge stems while scanning for prey and rivals with their enormous compound eyes that can detect movement across nearly 360 degrees. Their spotted wings create distinctive flight patterns as they hunt mosquitoes, midges, and other flyi Hemaris diffinis, Snowberry Clearwing Moth With their dramatic transparent wings, fuzzy striped bodies, and hovering flight pattern, Snowberry Clearwing Moths ( Hemaris diffinis ) are often mistaken for small hummingbirds or large bumblebees by both predators and human observers alike. Their well-camouflaged caterpillars are called hornworms due to the prominent spike on their rear end. They feed on snowberry shrubs and other members of the honeysuckle family, helping to regulate plant populations and maintain ecolog Bombus huntii, Hunt's Bumble Bee The Hunt Bumble Bee ( Bombus huntii ) is one of Colorado’s distinctive medium sized bumblebees with a colorful rust-orange band on their fuzzy rump. Their ability to thrive in cooler temperatures and “buzz pollinate” makes them important generalist pollinators in both natural and agricultural ecosystems across our state! Like other bumble bees, they nest underground in small colonies, and only fertilized young queens survive the winter. These queens emerge in spring to loc Boloria acrocnema, Uncompahgre Fritillary Butterfly The Uncompahgre Fritillary ( Boloria acrocnema ) is one of Colorado’s rarest butterflies. Federally listed as an Endangered Species, it is found in only a few isolated populations above 12,000 feet in the San Juan Mountains. Adapted to harsh alpine conditions, adults are active for just a few weeks in June and July following the seasonal snowmelt. Adults are generalist pollinators of high-elevation wildflowers, while their life cycle is closely tied to the snow willow, a low Apis mellifera, Honey Bee Though not native to North America, honey bees ( Apis mellifera ) have become integral to Colorado's agricultural landscape, particularly in alfalfa production across the state's eastern plains. These social insects live in highly organized colonies with complex communication systems, including the famous "waggle dance" that conveys distance and direction to food sources. Alfalfa's purple flowers provide excellent nectar flow, though the crop's "tripping" mechanism can someti Toxomerus marginatus, Margined Calligrapher Syrphid Fly Margined Calligrapher Syrphid Flies (Toxomerus marginatus) are widely distributed across North America, from Canada to Mexico. Their bright yellow and black markings closely resemble the warning coloration of stinging insects like wasps and honeybees, however, unlike the insects they mimic, these flies are harmless to humans and do not sting. As adults, they feed on nectar and pollen, and are essential for pollinating a wide diversity of plants. Additionally, their larvae Tegeticula yuccasella, Yucca Moth Tegeticula yuccasella, a species of Yucca Moth , shares an important mutualistic relationship with Soapweed Yucca (Yucca glauca), common across Colorado’s arid prairies and foothills. In spring, the adult moths emerge from their cocoons in sync with yucca flowers. Female moths collect pollen, mate, and deposit eggs across various individual yucca plants, facilitating vital cross-pollination and seed production. Emerging larvae consume only some of the yucca seeds in a way th Osmia lignaria, Blue Orchard Bee The Blue Orchard Bee (Osmia lignaria) stands out with its eye-catching metallic blue-black color! Like most of Colorado’s 1,000+ native bee species, these solitary bees build individual nests, rather than live in colonies, and often select natural cavities found in wood or hollow stems. To ensure direct and efficient pollen transfer between flowers, they carry collected pollen on the undersides of their bodies. This trait, along with their tendency to revisit the same type Hypaurotis crysalus, Colorado Hairstreak Butterfly The Colorado Hairstreak butterfly (Hypaurotis crysalus) became our official state insect in 1996, thanks to a campaign led by Colorado 4th graders! These beauties are dependent on Gambel Oak for their lifecycle—a native shrub found in the lower montane regions of western and southern Colorado, as well as along the Front Range. Though their wings are iridescent purple, this butterfly is well camouflaged against the bark and leaves of the oak, due to the small black and oran Hetaerina americana, American Rubyspot Damselfly American Rubyspot damselflies (Hetaerina americana) add a splash of color to stream and river habitats across North America. Males have vibrant red spots at the base of their wings, and contrasting bright green abdomens, while females are generally metallic green and gold. Damselflies are sensitive to pollution and their presence or absence can be an important indicator of the health of our critical freshwater ecosystems. Males aggressively defend territories at the edge of Dufourea maura, Black Short-faced Bee Dufourea maura (Black Short-faced Bees) are specialists on one of Colorado’s most eye-catching wildflowers -the Harebell ( Campanula sp .)! These conspicuous violet bell-shaped flowers impress humans and pollinators alike in alpine and subalpine meadows across the state. The adult bees are active in summer and early fall when these plants are blooming, and their range is completely dependent on the range of their host plant. The fate of specialist pollinators is closely ti Cicindela theatina, Great Sand Dunes Tiger Beetle Great Sand Dunes Tiger Beetles (Cicindela theatina), named for their distinctive coloring and predatory behaviors, are found only in Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park. This unique habitat supports over 1000 species of arthropods (insects, spiders, centipedes, millipedes), including several other species of insects that are found nowhere else in the world! Adult Tiger Beetles actively hunt other insects using their long legs and powerful jaws; while the buried lar Bombus occidentalis, Western Bumblebee Bombus occidentalis, the Western Bumblebee , inhabits a wide array of environments in western North America—from lowland agricultural areas to high alpine meadows. They are generalist pollinators that contribute significantly to the health and productivity of both Colorado’s native ecosystems and agricultural landscapes. Bumblebees are able to fly in cooler temperatures and lower light levels than many other bees, and their robust, hairy bodies help them efficiently move larg Anthophora pueblo, Pueblo Digger Bee The Pueblo Digger Bee ( Anthophora pueblo ) is named in honor of the ancestral Pueblo peoples, who built cliff dwellings in the Four Corners region more than 700 years ago. These industrious, solitary bees use their mandibles to chew away at the sandstone—creating a network of tunnels and nesting chambers for egg-laying and larval development. Nesting sites have been found in Utah, California, Nevada, and Colorado, including Mesa Verde National Park. Sandstone is more durabl Agapostemon coloradinus, Colorado Striped Sweat Bee Agapostemon coloradinus (the Colorado Striped Sweat Bee ) is a colorful creature named after a colorful state! Males have dazzling metallic green upper bodies, and abdomens with distinctive yellow and black stripes. Females lack stripes, but do have bands of short white hairs on their undersides, which help them carry pollen to their underground nests. These non-stinging solitary bees have been found in a variety of habitats, and while their range may stretch across the Sout

Thanks for signing the Pollinator Pledge and helping save our pollinators! We will be adding you to our Pollinator Pledge Map in about 24 hours. VIEW THE MAP » Find lists of suitable plants to support pollinators at the Colorado Native Plant Society or at XERCES Society's websites below: Colorado Native Plant Society XERCES.org POLLINATOR SAFE TIPS » Here is a printable Certificate you can print and sign and share: