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Committee hears bill to encourage DOT plantings for pollinators; supporters point to habitat and long-term savings
Summary
H 7,074 would encourage the Department of Transportation to plant native, pollinator‑friendly species along state roads; supporters cited habitat restoration, reduced mowing costs and runoff benefits, while DOT noted cost concerns in prior correspondence.
Representative McGaw presented House Bill 7,074, asking the Rhode Island Department of Transportation to adopt pollinator‑friendly, native plantings on state roadside and median plantings and to consult apiarists, horticulturists and certified professionals on species selection and location. The sponsor framed the measure as a cost‑saving, habitat-restoration effort, citing a Florida DOT example of reduced mowing costs and a URI pilot program on I‑295.
Rex Wilmoth of Environment Rhode Island, Liliya Stokes Weinstein, and Sally Johnson of Ecoastful Design testified in support, noting steep declines in many native bee and butterfly species and pointing to ecological and maintenance benefits of native roadside plantings. Wilmoth said roadside acres present an opportunity to expand habitat quickly and called the bill “common sense and pragmatic.”
Committee members asked about the availability of DOT data and a DOT letter expressing concern about cost; the sponsor said DOT’s written comment favored the concept but preferred changing mandatory language from “shall” to “may,” which sponsor argued would negate the bill. Members also discussed scope and public outreach so the public understands why mowing patterns may change.
Witnesses suggested that native grasses and professional horticultural oversight be emphasized to ensure plantings support pollinators and not invasive plants. The committee recorded multiple letters of support in the file and closed the hearing.
