North Raleigh Today

Raleigh Parks is set to celebrate Pollinator Week from June 12, 2024, with various activities and events aimed at raising awareness about the importance of pollinators. The celebration will take place across several locations, including Durant Nature Preserve, Walnut Creek Wetland Park, and Annie Louise Wilkerson, MD Nature Preserve.

Pollinators such as bees and butterflies are experiencing a decline due to habitat loss and climate change. Raleigh Parks and Natural Resources manages over 10,000 acres of green space, 220 parks, and 120 miles of greenway trails, providing ample opportunities to support and protect these essential species.

Visitors are encouraged to look for pollinator protection signs at wildflower plantings throughout the city. The City of Raleigh has also been designated as a Bee City USA. This designation involves engaging the community through events, volunteer opportunities, and the creation of pollinator habitats annually.

"Pollinators are in decline worldwide due to habitat loss and climate change," stated a representative from Raleigh Parks. "We reach out to our broader community to foster support for pollinators by hosting events, engaging with volunteers, and creating pollinator habitat each year."

Individuals interested in supporting pollinator protection efforts can sign up for volunteer services through Raleigh Parks.

Durant Nature Preserve is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., while Walnut Creek Wetland Park operates Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until dusk and Sunday from 1 p.m. until dusk. Annie Louise Wilkerson, MD Nature Preserve shares similar hours.