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Visitor urges Madison to protect Drew Forest as insect populations decline
Summary
Christine Hepburn, speaking during public comment, urged the council to consider the Drew Forest's role in sustaining insect biodiversity and said research shows sharp declines in insect populations, urging residents to reduce lighting and pesticide use and protect larger forested areas.
Christine Hepburn, a visiting resident and conservation advocate, urged the council to consider the Drew Forest’s importance for insects and biodiversity during the public-comment period.
“I am Christine Hepburn from Lightning Bug Hollow Road... I’m here as a friend of Drew Forest,” Hepburn said. She told the council that insect populations are in decline and urged local actions — including planting choices, limiting lighting at night and avoiding insecticides — to help pollinators and other invertebrates.
Hepburn cited a 2019 United Nations estimate that insects have declined by roughly 45% over recent decades and said that many insect species now face elevated extinction risk. She asked the borough to support protections and public-education efforts for the Drew Forest and to encourage residents to adopt insect-friendly practices.
Mayor Conley thanked Hepburn for traveling to Madison to speak. No immediate council action was recorded; the comment was made during the public-comment portion of the meeting that was limited to agenda items earlier and open to any topic during the later segment.
Hepburn’s remarks were the only public comment recorded during the meeting’s general-comment period.
