The decline of pollinators within segmented and urban habitats is cause for serious concern. Without the holistic integration of pollinators throughout the Prairie Acre Project, the native species within the Acre will face hindered plant reproduction rates which could be detrimental on a long-term basis. Pollinators are a central component to the Prairie Acre Project, which will combine collaboration with all other 2016 Capstone groups to ensure a diverse ecosystem of native species, creation of attractive signage, preservation of University history, and compliance with University standards and applicable guidelines, such as those set forth by the Obama Administration in 2013 on “Creating a Federal Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey Bees and Other Pollinators”. The inclusion of and education for pollinators in this local community will help facilitate community cohesion, increase autonomy by giving the community tools for better environmental practices, and will be beneficial to the University of Kansas by creating ongoing opportunities for research and class study.

The purpose of focusing on pollinators within the Prairie Acre project is in response to the decline of pollinators and their habitats. Education on pollinators is a fundamental component to the Prairie Acre Project, which will help to nurture the public's understanding of the importance of pollinators, their habitats, and ways to incorporate the pollinator population in residential gardens, such as inclusion of milkweed and nectar producing plants. This education will also be beneficial to the University of Kansas, creating opportunities for research and class study. Pollinators will help to maintain the species diversity within the Prairie Acre, assist with restoration, cultivate ecosystem health, and provide engaging opportunities for the public.