A bee on Joe-Pye Weed
Image by Erie County Master Gardener Lyn Chimera

A bee on Joe-Pye Weed

Moth on Milkweed
Image by Erie County Master Gardener Lyn Chimera

Moth on Milkweed

Swallowtail Butterfly
Image by Erie County Master Gardener Lyn Chimera

Erie County Pollinator Information


Welcome to the Erie County Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Master Gardener Pollinator Project!

Scroll through our e-book of pollinator-friendly plants perfect for WNY gardens!*

Handouts you can download*

*Coming soon!

  • “Bumblebees: The Amazing Gentle Giants” -CCE Erie County Pollinator of the Year 2022
  • Hummingbird Moth (Clearwing Moth) – CCE Erie County Pollinator of the Year 2023
  • Pollinator-friendly plants and nurseries for WNY
  • “Guide to shopping for plants for pollinator gardens”
  • “What is a native plant? Why are they good for pollinators?”

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone

The U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) identifies planting zones based on an area’s climate and conditions. Erie County has three zones: 5a, 5b and 6a. Knowing your zone helps you choose plants most likely to thrive in your garden.

Resources for WNY gardeners

Special pollinator observances like National Pollinator Week and many more are listed!

Last updated January 24, 2023