Rep. Cochran offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 326.

            A resolution to encourage Michigan homeowners and landowners to plant native plants that support bee populations and create habitats for all pollinators.

            Whereas, Pollinator species such as birds, bees, bats, and butterflies are essential partners of farmers in producing much of the food supply throughout the United States and here in Michigan. It is estimated that pollinators account for $1 billion of value annually from pollinating plants and producing honey in Michigan. One-third of the crops grown in the state are pollinated by bees including apples, blueberries, cherries, peppers, pumpkins, strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers, alfalfa and clover; and

            Whereas, Pollination also plays a vital role in the health of state and national forests and grasslands which in turn provide forage, fish and wildlife, timber, water, mineral resources, and recreational and economic development opportunities for communities. Many Michigan residents enjoy the state's forests and recreation areas, fishing and camping, and feeding their families with locally and home-grown fruits and vegetables. The health and biodiversity of these ecosystems depend on the significant environmental benefits provided by pollinator species; and

            Whereas, Establishing native plants in areas that are not used for crops, including personal gardens, is one step toward ensuring that pollinator populations remain healthy by having access to diverse and abundant food sources; and

            Whereas, The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and local nurseries and landscapers have expertise concerning native plants that are beneficial for Michigan pollinators; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we encourage Michigan homeowners and landowners to plant native plants that support bee populations and create habitats for all pollinators; and be it further

            Resolved, That the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development work with the Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association to develop a list of native plants that would support pollinators and post this list on the department website and encourage the Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association to also post the list; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Michigan State University Extension, and the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association.