David Arndt advocates for pollinator protection in support of HB 1342

The Maryland General Assembly's Environment and Transportation Committee convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss critical environmental issues, particularly focusing on pollinator protection. David Arndt, a Baltimore resident and director of the Locust Point Community Garden, presented compelling testimony about the challenges facing pollinators, including bees and monarch butterflies.

Arndt highlighted the importance of pollinators in agriculture, noting that his community garden is home to various native bee species and five beehives. Despite maintaining a pesticide-free environment, he reported a decline in bee populations due to external pesticide use and the broader impacts of climate change. He emphasized that bees can travel significant distances for food, making them vulnerable to environmental changes beyond the garden's control.

The testimony underscored the alarming decline in monarch butterfly populations, attributing this trend to habitat loss and pesticide use. Arndt proposed several solutions, including protecting existing habitats, expanding pollinator-friendly areas on public lands, and implementing initiatives like "no mow" periods in spring. He expressed strong support for House Bill 1342, which aims to address these issues and protect pollinators.

The committee's discussion reflects a growing recognition of the need for legislative action to safeguard pollinator populations, which are vital for food production and ecosystem health. The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the proposed bill, marking a significant step towards environmental protection in Maryland.