The vast majority of flowering plants rely on bees, birds and butterflies to reproduce. Without pollinators, three-quarters of the world’s staple crops would not grow.
The Rindge Conservation Commission is hosting a Father’s Day hike – though all are welcome, not just fathers and children – to kick off Pollinator Week with a hike through the Contoocook Marsh Conservation Complex.
The one-hour hike will include education about the role of pollinators and their vital importance, as part of Pollinator Week, which runs from June 21 through June 27.
The hike begins Sunday at 1:30 p.m., and follow a well-defined path that includes views of the marsh, open water and groves. Residents interested in joining the hike can park at the parking area on County Road in Rindge, located east off Route 202 and about 1.5 miles north of Route 119.
The hike kicks off the Rindge Conservation Commission’s Annual Hike and Paddle Series, which explore the trails, wetlands and forests throughout the town of Rindge. Each outing is led by a Conservation Commission member with knowledge of the history of the properties and their natural features.
Conservation Commission member Al Lefebvre said the hikes began several years ago, and have become increasingly popular.
“It’s an opportunity to come and visit the conservation lands, and hear experts speak to different issues as they walk the trails,” Lefebvre said.
The Contoocook Marsh Conservation Complex is a particularly apt walk to take at the start of Pollinator Week, as the Conservation Commission has been planting flowers in the area specifically to attract pollinators.
“The bee and butterfly populations have been diminishing,” Lefebvre said. “It’s important to have them around and provide them places where they can get the pollen and spread it and multiply. We want to keep them around and preserve them.”
For several years, the Conservation Commission has been adding plants to the conservation area to attract pollinators, and clearing growth.
“People don’t realize the importance of insects to plant life in Rindge – and anywhere. It’s part of a system that’s intertwined,” Lefebvre said.
The walk includes a portion of Route 202, touches upon the Monadnock Rail Trail, and Roger’s Landing.
Following the Father’s Day hike, the next three hikes in the series are planned for July 18, Aug. 22 and Sept. 19. Other hikes may be scheduled throughout the summer.
The July 18 hike will include a walk through Tetreault Park on Rand Road, including the historic cabin on the property, and an area which may eventually become a playscape for children. The Aug. 22 hike is at Converse Meadow and includes a paddle tour on the lake. Participants must bring their own kayak or canoe. The Sept. 19 hike is at the Miriam Hunt Memorial Town Forest.
All hikes are free of charge and held rain or shine. There is no registration, and the hikes are open to all, including non-residents.
When participating in outdoor activities, use sun screen and bug spray. Bring a bottle of water.
If you would like more information about the Father’s Day hike or others in the Annual Hike and Paddle Series, email the Rindge Conservation Commission at rindgeconcom@town.rindge.nh.us.
Ashley Saari can be reached at 924-7172 ext. 244 or asaari@ledgertranscript.com. She’s on Twitter @AshleySaariMLT.