There’s just no getting around it - insects are in trouble. According to a recent New York Times article, insect populations around the globe are rapidly dropping. Insects are important for a number of reasons but one of the biggest for humans is that they help pollinate our crops.

This is scary but the important thing is each of us can do our part to help. Here are some ways you can help:

• Replace your lawn with a water-efficient, pollinator-friendly garden - and get a rebate!!

• Check out this free pollinator-friendly garden design.

• Use smart pest management in your garden. Take your old insecticide to a free household hazardous waste drop-off and use smart pest management methods instead.

• Create a happy environment for beneficial insects. Use plants that they love, such as Yarrow, lavender, and California poppies. These are beautiful and will be a place that pollinators will love.