WCB Pollinator Program
Creating and maintaining habitats that support vital pollinator populations in Madera County.
Wildlife Conservation Board Pollinator Program
The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) Pollinator Program focuses on creating and maintaining habitats that support pollinator populations. The MCRCD works with farmers and landowners to establish pollinator-friendly plantings and practices.
Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects are essential to agriculture and natural ecosystems. They are responsible for pollinating approximately 75% of flowering plants and nearly 35% of global food crops. Declining pollinator populations threaten both agricultural productivity and biodiversity. This program addresses these challenges by creating high-quality pollinator habitat on agricultural lands.
Pollinators We Support
- Native bee species (mason bees, bumblebees)
- Honeybees and managed pollinators
- Butterflies and moths
- Hoverflies and beetles
- Hummingbirds and other nectar feeders
- Beneficial insects for pest management
Pollinator Habitat Implementation
Increase monarch and pollinator habitat on public and working lands, including agricultural property.
Eligibility & Benefits
Public and working lands in Madera and Chowchilla counties are eligible. Small and historically disadvantaged growers are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Free technical assistance for wildlife habitat restoration design (hedgerows)
- Funding for site preparation and materials (native plant plugs, seeds)
- Ongoing monitoring and maintenance support
Contact Us
Register for Implementation Funding
The Madera/Chowchilla Resource Conservation District has funding to help agricultural operations and working lands establish pollinator habitat through the California Wildlife Conservation Board.
Small and historically disadvantaged growers are strongly encouraged to apply. Our team will work with you to design and implement habitat restoration projects tailored to your operation.
What You'll Receive
- Free technical assistance for wildlife habitat restoration design (hedgerows)
- Funding for site preparation for pollinator habitat installation and materials, including native plant plugs and seeds
- Ongoing monitoring and maintenance assistance
Funding Application
Fill out the form below to apply for pollinator habitat funding
Building Pollinator Habitat
The WCB Pollinator Program takes a comprehensive approach to creating and sustaining pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Habitat Establishment
Creating diverse native wildflower plantings and pollinator hedgerows along farm edges, field borders, and unutilized areas.
Native Plant Species
Utilizing locally adapted native plant species that provide continuous bloom throughout the growing season for pollinators.
Landowner Partnerships
Working directly with farmers and landowners to integrate pollinator-friendly practices into their existing operations.
Sustainable Practices
Promoting reduced pesticide use, integrated pest management, and farming practices that protect pollinator health.
Events & Opportunities
Join us in creating pollinator-friendly landscapes through hands-on events and technical assistance programs.
Increasing Pollinators on Your Operation
The RCD has funding to help agricultural operations and working lands establish pollinator habitat. We will visit your site with a partner biologist specializing in pollinators and native plant species.
- Visit your site with a partner biologist specializing in pollinators and native plant species.
- Create a plan in collaboration with the landowner's needs.
- Fund native plant supplies and other materials, if needed.
- Monitor habitat and suggest maintenance annually.
Volunteer Planting Day
Plant native trees and shrubs to support local biodiversity and pollinator habitats. Be ready to dig, lift, and get your hands dirty!
- Plant native trees and shrubs.
- Support local biodiversity and pollinator habitats.
- Wear: sun protection, closed-toed shoes, garden gloves, comfortable work clothes.
- Refreshments provided.
The Importance of Pollinators to Agriculture
In the San Joaquin Valley, pollinators play a critical role in the production of almonds, stone fruits, vegetables, and many other crops that drive the regional economy. Without healthy pollinator populations, crop yields decline and production costs increase as farmers must rely more heavily on managed pollination services.
The WCB Pollinator Program helps reverse habitat loss by establishing permanent and semi-permanent pollinator plantings on agricultural lands. These plantings provide nesting sites, food resources, and safe corridors that connect fragmented habitats, enabling pollinator populations to recover and thrive.
Improved crop pollination and yields
Reduced dependence on managed honeybees
Enhanced biodiversity on agricultural lands
Natural pest control through beneficial insect habitat
Pollinator Program Resources
Download and explore resources related to our pollinator conservation efforts.
Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Landscape
Through the WCB Pollinator Program, the MCRCD is helping to transform agricultural landscapes into thriving ecosystems that support both productive farming and healthy pollinator populations. Together, we can ensure that our crops and wildlands continue to benefit from these vital species.
Join the Program75%
of flowering plants rely on pollinators
35%
of global food crops depend on pollination
100+
acres of habitat being restored
Help Us Build Pollinator Habitats
Partner with the MCRCD to create pollinator-friendly landscapes on your land and support vital pollinator populations.