United States Department of Transportation
i
Pollinator Habitat Along Highway Right of Way
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2021-07-01
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[PDF-7.40 MB]
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Edition:Final Report (December 2020-July 2021)
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Abstract:Pollinators are important components of our ecosystems, as well as being important contributors to agricultural production. Highway right of way (ROW) is one potential habitat for pollinators. The objectives of this study were to assess existing practices of other agencies for promoting pollinator habitat within the ROW and to identify potential locations for pollinator habitat in Missouri. The study methodology included a review of academic and practitioner literature, survey of state departments of transportation (DOTs), DOT interviews, and geographic information system (GIS) analysis. The literature review found that various practitioner resources are available regarding site assessment, best management practices (BMPs), planting guidance, and other topics related to promoting pollinator habitat within the ROW. The literature addresses the suitability of a particular site for pollinator habitat based on various factors such as cover and health of existing vegetation, mowing frequency, soil texture and pH, land use, site size, sunlight, water availability, and accessibility. Survey results indicated that the most frequently utilized methods for promoting pollinator habitat in the highway ROW are planting native species that benefit pollinators, limiting the frequency of mowing, and vegetation management practices. DOTs perceive the designation of right of way on DOT facilities and reclassification of existing habitat as the most effective methods for promoting pollinator habitat. GIS was used to analyze multiple data layers (including ROWs, public lands and bodies of water, and land use/land cover) to quantify potential available land for pollinator habitat development and connectivity with other natural landscapes. A 500’ buffer around the ROW parcels was used to identify potential intersections with parks, natural areas and bodies of water. GIS files transmitted with this report will allow MoDOT to examine the locations of upcoming projects to identify those warranting further consideration as pollinator habitat.
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