PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed June 20-26, 2016 as Pollinator Week in South Dakota.
Pollinator species such as birds and insects are essential to the production of many of South Dakota’s leading crops. They also play a vital role in the health of our farms, forests and grasslands.
“Pollinator species provide significant environmental benefits that are necessary for maintaining healthy biodiverse ecosystems,” said South Dakota Department of Agriculture apiary specialist Bob Reiners. “Pollinators are also essential partners to farmers and ranchers in producing much of our food supply.”
South Dakota is one of the top five honey producing states, with just under 320,000 colonies in an average year.
Agriculture is a major contributor to South Dakota’s economy, generating $25.6 billion in annual economic activity and employing over 115,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s mission is to promote, protect, preserve and improve this industry for today and tomorrow. Visit us online at http://sdda.sd.gov or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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