MI SR0189

Recognizes June 20-26, 2016, as Pollinator Week in Michigan to highlight the importance of pollinators and encourage awareness of pollinator-friendly best practices.

States that pollinators such as honey bees, butterflies, birds, and bats are responsible for approximately one-third of all U.S. agricultural output and 50 percent of Michigan's agricultural output.

Notes that Michigan is a leader in honey production and pollinator-dependent crops including apples, cranberries, blueberries, and cherries, which are critical to rural economies.

Acknowledges that pollinator loss poses a significant threat to U.S. agriculture and food security, with honey bee populations declining to near crisis levels in recent years.

Encourages Michigan residents to implement pollinator-friendly best practices and support efforts to protect and sustain pollinator populations through improved habitat and guidance on apiary management and pesticide use.