By Mark Belknap | Director of Vegetation and Environmental Management
The third week of June marks National Pollinator Week — a great time to recognize the hardworking insects, birds and even bats that keep much of our world blooming and our food supply going. While honeybees often steal the spotlight, native pollinators like bumblebees, butterflies, moths and solitary bees play an equally important role, especially here on the Eastern Shore.
As the cooperative’s utility forester, I often get questions about how right-of-way maintenance affects wildlife — and pollinators are a part of that conversation. You might be surprised to learn that some of our practices can actually help.
When we clear or spray beneath power lines, we’re not just removing tall, incompatible tree species. We’re also creating sunny, open corridors — the perfect environment for many native wildflowers. Milkweed, goldenrod, elderberry and black-eyed Susans often thrive in these spaces, and they’re favorites for butterflies and bees.
Timing matters too. When possible, mowing and spraying are scheduled to try to avoid peak blooming seasons and key development stages for insects. It’s a balancing act — keeping the lights on while leaving room for nature to do what it does best.
You too can help. Consider planting native species in your own yard or garden. Even a small patch of bee balm or mountain mint can support dozens of pollinator species. It’s one of the reasons we donated almost
6,000 seedlings in April at our Member Appreciation Day event. And if you see a wild patch growing under a line, give it a second look — it may be more than just weeds.
Pollinator Week is a good reminder that thoughtful land stewardship doesn’t always mean doing more — sometimes it’s about knowing when to step back and let nature take the lead.
Mark Belknap is the Director of Vegetation and Environmental Management at A&N Electric Cooperative. He has degrees in Wildlife Management and Forest Resource Management from West Virginia University. He is a wildlife biologist, certified arborist, certified arborist utility specialist, licensed professional forester, and former Habitat Chair for the newly formed Coastal Virginia Chapter of Quail Forever.