On June 18, ˿����Ƶ hosted its annual Green Roof Reception, “Party with the Pollinators”, at ˿����Ƶ Headquarters in Washington, D.C. The event welcomed hundreds of attendees, including congressional staff, federal agency representatives, coalition partners, local landscape architects, and biodiversity advocates. The evening highlighted the essential role of landscape architects in creating pollinator habitats through thoughtful design and public policy. 

Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, moths, and birds are vital to ecosystems and agriculture. Yet their populations continue to decline at alarming rates. According to the Washington Post, “Native bees have experienced a steady population decline over decades and keepers of commercial honeybees reported one of their biggest colony losses ever this year.” This growing crisis reinforces the importance of protecting and expanding pollinator habitats across all types of landscapes. 

At the reception, guests explored how landscape architects are integrating native plants and sustainable design strategies to create pollinator-friendly environments. Whether designing commercial and residential green roofs, public parks, or stormwater management projects, landscape architects are shaping landscapes that support pollinators while also enhancing community well-being. 

The event also served as a timely reminder of the need to sustain pollinator research. The Washington Post recently reported that the U.S. Geological Survey’s Native Bee Lab, the only federal facility dedicated to native bee research, is at risk of closure due to proposed federal budget cuts. This lab houses over one million bee specimens and supports vital scientific research, identification, and conservation efforts nationwide. Its potential shutdown comes at a critical time for pollinator health and biodiversity. 

“Party with the Pollinators” highlighted the vital connection between science, policy, and design. ˿����Ƶ thanks all who attended for celebrating the power of landscape architecture to restore ecosystems, support pollinators, and advance environmental resilience.