Pollinator Week 2025 Designated: Why Your Grocery Bill Depends on Bees and Butterflies

This resolution officially designates the week of June 15 through June 22, 2025, as "National Pollinator Week." Essentially, Congress is putting a spotlight on the tiny workers—bees, butterflies, moths, and even some birds—that keep our entire food system running. While this is a non-binding resolution, it serves as a formal acknowledgment that the decline of these species is a major economic and environmental problem that needs national attention.

The $18 Billion Grocery Connection

If you’re wondering why Congress is focused on bugs, look no further than your next trip to the grocery store. The resolution highlights that pollinators contribute over $18 billion in revenue annually to U.S. crop production. That’s not a typo. Without them, the affordability and variety of over 100 different crops—from almonds and apples to coffee and cucumbers—would plummet. This isn't just about saving nature; it’s about protecting the supply chain that keeps food costs manageable for families juggling rising expenses.

The Crisis of the Missing Bees

The resolution isn't just a feel-good measure; it clearly lays out the alarm bells. It notes that many native pollinator species are facing serious extinction risks. For example, the migratory monarch butterfly population has dropped by a shocking 85 percent since the 1980s, and the American bumble bee has declined by 90 percent. Nearly 70 native pollinator species are now officially listed as threatened or endangered by the Federal Government. This loss of biodiversity affects everyone, not just farmers, because these species are essential for keeping 80 percent of flowering plants healthy, which supports clean air and water.

What "National Pollinator Week" Actually Means

So, what happens during this week in June 2025? The resolution encourages everyone—individuals, communities, and organizations—to observe National Pollinator Week with educational and conservation activities. For the average person, this might mean local events at parks, workshops on planting pollinator-friendly gardens, or just increased public service announcements about the issue. More importantly, Congress is committing to continue working on protecting pollinator habitats and increasing public understanding of their importance. While there’s no new funding or mandate attached, this formal recognition is often the first step in prioritizing future policy and resources aimed at conservation efforts.