Sustainability Commitment Extends to Our Niagara Pollinators
New York Power Authority
NYPA is the nation's largest state power organization, serving government, not-for-profit, and business customers.
NYPA and Canals are committed to protecting the ecosystems and natural resources we manage across the State of New York. Part of that commitment includes nurturing one of our most precious resources – pollinators.
This fall, our Sustainability group and Niagara General Maintenance helped demonstrate that commitment by installing a new pollinator garden at our Niagara Power Vista Visitors Center.
“Pollinators such as native bees, butterflies, and other insects are important links in our ecosystems,” noted Cari Ficken, PhD , Program Manager, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Stewardship.
She continued, “Native plant gardens provide habitat for pollinators. Without pollinators, many plants wouldn’t grow or reproduce, crops wouldn’t provide us with food, forests wouldn’t provide us with clean air, and wetlands wouldn’t provide us with clean water.”
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This beautiful new garden utilized more than 2,000 native plants, including low-maintenance shrubs, trees, and perennials. The plants were chosen to be hardworking, low-maintenance native species that provide visual interest and habitat year-round. An exhibit installed in the garden educates visitors about how native biodiversity and healthy ecosystems provide us with clean air, fresh water, and many other benefits.
“The Niagara Power Project is one of our most important assets. It’s certainly one of the most visible,” noted Lou Paonessa , Senior Director, Community Affairs. “That makes the Niagara Power Vista visitor center so important to our brand. It helps define the public’s impression and demonstrates our pride. This is another example of the high bar we set for ourselves.”
General Maintenance, with the efforts of our Union workforce, participated in this project, and supported the landscaping designer and contractor. They will provide maintenance over the long-term so that the garden continues to thrive for many years. Many thanks to NYPA General Maintenance, who went above and beyond not just in preparing the site to specifications but also in assisting our contractors in getting material onto the rooftop patio!
If you are interested in learning more about pollinators and how you can help protect them, please contact cari.ficken@NYPA.gov.