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Managing Roadsides and Rights-of-Way for Pollinators

rural roadside in MI
Photo: The Xerces Society /Jennifer Hopwood


With more than 10 million acres of land in roadsides in the United States alone, transportation rights-of-way are a significant, yet often overlooked resource for pollinator conservation. In landscapes denuded of natural areas by agriculture or urbanization, roadsides, utility easements, and other rights-of-way are an increasingly important component of regional habitat networks. They can support native vegetation, provide refuge for wildlife and connect fragmented habitat. 

The Basics


Include Native Grasses and Wildflowers


Reduce Mowing

Mowing of roadside vegetation beyond the shoulder during the growing season should be reduced, so wildflowers can be allowed to bloom. Consider mowing once a year in the dormant season or, better yet, mowing once every few years to reduce impact of mowing on pollinators and other wildlife such as songbirds.

A stylized image of a pesticide spray bottle.

Use Herbicides and Other Pesticides Sparingly

Blanket herbicide applications can eliminate wildflowers that pollinators depend upon. Spot-treat noxious weeds and carefully time herbicide applications to limit harm.