SAN FRANCISCO, June 11 (Xinhua) -- Governor Bill Walker of the northwest U.S. state of Alaska Monday called on residents in Alaska to plant more trees and flowers to protect environment and preserve the health of the state's ecosystem.
By proclaiming June 18-24 as "Pollinator Week" in Alaska, Walker said all Alaskans should be encouraged to learn more about the important role native pollinators play in maintaining the health of the state's ecosystems.
"Alaska has an abundance of plant, insect, and animal species that enhance the natural beauty of our state and contribute to the health of our ecosystems," he said.
Pollination plays a dynamic and vital role in the health of Alaska's forests, grasslands, and other unique bionetworks, which provide forage, fish, wildlife, timber, water, mineral resources, and recreational opportunities, Walker said.
However, he cautioned that pollinator populations have declined noticeably in recent years, which may result from factors such as pests, pathogens, viruses, poor nutrition, pesticide exposure, bee management practices, and lack of genetic diversity.
Pollinator Week offers an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of pollination "for the wellbeing of our ecosystem and food sources," said the governor.
He urged Alaskans to grow flowers, trees and other plants on their property to supply pollinators with nectar, pollen and habitat.