KYTC draws attention to pollinator habitats as National Pollinator Week is celebrated

National Pollinator Week runs now through June 23, and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is doing their part to assist critters and help the environment. 

The KYTC says since 2015 crews have seeded more than 100 habitat sites across the commonwealth, covering about 200 acres along Kentucky interstates, parkways, and other state-owned rights of way.

The multi-year effort to plant nectar-rich flowers and native plants supports pollinators that are key to crop production. The habitats attract birds, bees, butterflies, and other creatures that drink nectar or feed off pollen, which transports grains from plant to plant and helps maintain a stable food supply.

Pollinator sites can be seen along many roadside areas including fields between interstate lanes and exit ramps, alongside multi-lane parkways, and around four-lane highways. Additional pollinator habitats have been added to construction of Interstate 69, and monarch butterfly waystations have been installed at welcome centers and rest areas.

Hardin County has several pollinator habitats located along Interstate 65 and the Western Kentucky Parkway. An interactive map of all locations in the state and more information on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s ecology program can be found on the KYTC’s website.