by Tanner Johnson, November 2024
Last month IAE hosted our first ever Pollinator Palooza—to celebrate our new office space in the Southwest! The event showcased native pollinators and the incredible people who help make our work possible. Through food, lightning talks, informational tables, research posters, and raffle prizes, the celebration brought together the local pollinator community for a memorable evening of learning, connection, and appreciation.
The focal point of the Palooza was the food that exhibited native pollinators and local cuisine. Calabacitas called out the squash bee, chicken mole spotlighted the chocolate midge, fig salad featured the fig wasp, and lechuguilla placed native bats in the limelight.
The lightning talks were a highlight of the evening, offering fascinating insights into pollinator conservation efforts. Simon Doneski shared tools for protecting New Mexico’s butterflies, while Quin Baine shared the value of long-term pollinator monitoring in places like Valles Caldera National Preserve. IAE’s Emily Rees highlighted the River for Monarchs habitat restoration project along the Rio Grande, and Dr. Olivia Carril discussed her research on wild bees and their importance to New Mexico’s ecosystems.
In addition to the talks, Xerces Society, Plants of the Southwest, and Bat Conservation International hosted informational tables, while Dr. Dave Lighfoot and Kristen Bird shared hundreds of native pollinator specimens. These organizations and individuals showcased the important work they are doing for pollinator conservation and offered valuable resources for attendees to take home.
IAE staff and youth crew members presented research posters sharing recent projects, from rare plant pollinator research to pollinator garden implementation. These displays generated fruitful discussions about gaps and opportunities in pollinator research and restoration.
The evening wound down with the drawing of raffle prizes generously donated by Dryland Wilds, Kei and Molly Textiles, New Mexico River Adventures, and Santa Fe Botanical Garden.
A highlight, as shared by attendees, was the opportunity for meaningful networking. Partners from various agencies and organizations appreciated the chance to connect with others working on pollinator conservation and restoration efforts. Many noted how uncommon it is to gather such a diverse range of groups—whose work often overlaps but who seldom meet in person—in one room. From learning about pollinators to mingling with others, the evening offered something for everyone.
The true heart of Pollinator Palooza was the sense of community. Volunteers, nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, and community partners shared stories, built connections, and celebrated the collective impact of their efforts to support pollinators and their habitats. As we reflect on this wonderful event, we are already looking forward to next year’s Pollinator Palooza, with plans to expand its role in engaging the broader community in our conservation mission! By continuing to bring together diverse voices, ideas, and experiences, we hope to create an even greater impact for pollinators and the ecosystems we all rely on.
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made Pollinator Palooza such a success. Whether you are a volunteer, nonprofit partner, community advocate, or government collaborator, your contributions are essential to our shared mission. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for pollinators, ecosystems, and the communities that depend on them. Here’s to continuing this vital work together and to an even bigger and brighter Pollinator Palooza in 2025!
