Learn about the value and importance of pollinators in your garden and in the environment around us in this Walk & Talk with Kathy Harter and Janet Chen, Schenectady County Master Gardener Volunteers. Why are pollinators important? Pollinators contribute substantially to the State’s environment and economy. Without pollinators, ecosystems, agriculture, and the economy would have a very different landscape. The number of pollinators has dropped significantly over the past 50 years, due to a combination of factors.  Loss of habitat, irresponsible pesticide use, poor land management practices and lack of genetic diversity have all contributed to what is termed ‘Insectageddon’, or the collapse of insect populations that could inevitably lead to the collapse of our food chain.  While global strategies can most effectively address the problem, there is still much we can do in our parks and backyards. The tour will start at the Nine Pin Urban Orchard in the Park off Thurlow Terrace, and will finish at the Farmers Market. Handouts will be provided. This program is an outreach of the Schenectady County Master Gardener Volunteer program. Learn more about pollinators HERE