Thanks to its new program supporting pollinator habitats, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is reducing maintenance costs while also benefiting the environment, writes Michelle Wolf for WFMZ 69 News. 

The largest habitat belonging to the Turnpike Commission sits on seven and a half acres in the Allentown area. The aim of creating pollinator habitat is to promote sustainability and native species. 

“Reduce emissions, reduce mowing, and fuel costs,” said Brady Pnacek, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Landscape Specialist. 

The Allentown site was planted last year and is doing well despite the ongoing drought. 

“We came out and prepped the site,” said Pnacek. “We seeded in June and what you’re looking at is a very good grow-in after the first year.” 

The commission, which oversees five pollinator habitats throughout the state, started winterizing the sites last week. 

“We mow this 10 to 12 inches which provides overwintering abilities for all sorts of insects and small mammals,” said Pnacek. “We have hollow-stemmed plants as well and that’s where your bees and insects like to get in there and lay eggs for the next year.” 

Conservation mowing helps naturally spread seeds throughout the soil, ensuring the habitat will reach full bloom in the spring. 

Read more about the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s new program in WFMZ 69 News. 

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