Protecting the Pollinators: OGC Mission Fund Recipient, the Xerces Society, Champions Conservation
The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation is on a mission to protect the smallest creatures that sustain our ecosystems. This international nonprofit works to protect pollinators, freshwater mussels, fireflies and other often-overlooked invertebrates that play a critical role in safeguarding biodiversity and making sure global food systems stay strong. With nearly 100 biologists, ecologists and entomologists spread across the country, their work spans pollinator conservation, endangered species protection, pesticide reduction advocacy and community education.
Much of Xerces’ work shows up as free technical assistance to farmers and conservation groups. Their Bee Better Certification program supports farmers who commit to protecting pollinator habitats and cutting back on pesticide use. Seeing the Bee Better Certification on products also helps shoppers make informed choices about the food they buy. “Because agriculture comprises nearly 50% of the world’s land use, it presents both a challenge and an opportunity for conservation,” explains Lisa Korpos, grants and corporate giving specialist at the Xerces Society. “By working directly with farmers to incorporate habitat restoration into their fields, we can make a tangible difference.”
We can all pitch in by planting native flowers, avoiding pesticides and getting the word out about how important invertebrates are in our ecosystems. Programs like Xerces’ Pollinator Habitat Kit initiative give free native wildflowers to landowners and community organizations in several regions. As Lisa emphasizes, “Even small patches of habitat in urban spaces can foster resilience among pollinators and other crucial species.”
The OGC Mission Fund supported the Xerces Society with an unrestricted grant in 2024. “Thanks, OGC, for your grant and for supporting organic farmers – organic growing practices help pollinators,” shared Lisa. “When combined with areas of habitat on the farm designed for beneficial insects, it is one of the best ways to grow produce and a bounty of pollinators at the same time."
OGC’s Mission Fund Grant Program helps address climate change, build equity in our regional farm and food system, preserve farmland, and more. The Xerces Society is just one of the many organizations the Mission Fund supported in 2024. Find a list of all our 2024 grant recipients here.
