Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program: New York
Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources

Land-use change from solar energy development can lead to loss of pollinator habitat; however, native plant restoration at solar facilities may lead to increased pollinator habitat on the landscape relative to other anthropogenic changes. Co-location of pollinator habitat and solar energy production is prospective, but it lacks empirical backing and real-world applications of regionally specific ecological restoration at operational, large-scale solar facilities. Research on ecological restoration at solar facilities for native pollinator habitat is needed to guide pollinator-friendly solar in theory and practice. In partnership with the Electric Power Research Institute and UC Davis, we are measuring pollinator response to ecological restoration practices at solar facilities in the Central Valley of California. The research will inform best management practices to promote pollinator habitat at solar facilities in the Central Valley, with broad applications to stakeholders ranging from solar developers to conservationists.