Grassland Oregon introduces new seed mixture "Pastures for Pollinators"

Date:10-14-2016

Grassland Oregon announces a new seed mixture, called Pastures for Pollinators, that includes a variety of flowering annual clovers to support sustainable livestock farming in the United States and increase pollinator populations.

Habitat loss is a major cause for pollinator decline, which includes monarch butterflies, moths and bee colonies. This is a serious economic and environmental issue, which has not been addressed fully by the U.S. government or the agriculture industry. Native bees contribute over $9 billion to the U.S. economy by pollinating crops, while managed hives contribute over $15 billion. However, over the last five decades, the number of bee colonies has decreased by half and the cost of bee hive rentals for farmers has tripled. Monarch butterfly migrations have declined from 550 million in 2004 to 33 million in 2013.

Pastures for Pollinators seed mixture offers a solution to the declining pollinator population problem. Livestock farmers can use this new seed blend for the health of their soil and cattle, with the added benefit of creating new natural habitats for pollinators. This meets today's farming needs and positively impacts the U.S. economy, but more importantly it creates sustainable farming practices and increased pollinator populations for future generations.

"With over 400 million acres of pastureland in the U.S., there is a huge opportunity to make an impact on pollinator habitat while also meeting the needs farmers and ranchers have in feeding their livestock and sustaining their soil resources," said Risa DeMasi, co-founder of Grassland Oregon. "All of us at Grassland Oregon are passionate about what we do and want to give back to the agricultural community. That's why we are donating the profits from Pastures for Pollinators to further sustainable agricultural research programs."

Take action today to help increase and sustain our nation's pollinator population. To place an order for Pastures for Pollinators seed or to make a donation to this cause, please visit www.pasturesforpollinators.com.

Grassland Oregon, Inc. is a leader in the development and marketing of science-based cover crop, turf, and forage seeds. With research locations across North America and exclusive global partnerships, Grassland Oregon is at the forefront in the development of products that deliver novel solutions for growing concerns.