Pollinator Palooza Returns to Keene, Growing Conservation Awareness One Garden at a Time

KEENE — On a summer afternoon, it can be easy to overlook the tiny creatures moving among the flowers in a garden or field. Yet those bees, butterflies, moths, beetles and other pollinators perform work that is essential to ecosystems, agriculture and the food supply. Later this month, residents will have an opportunity to learn more about those often-overlooked species during the 2026 Pollinator Palooza, a community celebration of pollinators and conservation set for Saturday, June 27, at Ashuelot River Park in Keene. Hosted by the Cheshire County Conservation District, the free event will bring together conservation organizations, educators, local businesses and community members for an afternoon of hands-on activities, educational presentations and family-friendly fun centered on the importance of pollinator habitat. What began as a modest educational event has grown into one of the region's larger community conservation celebrations. "The Pollinator Palooza first began in 2022 as an idea to increase regional awareness and education of native pollinators and the need to support their habitat," said Benee Hershon, district manager of the Cheshire County Conservation District. "The first year, the event was quite small with about three other local organizations tabling. Over the years through the support and enthusiasm of our partner organizations, the city of Keene Parks and Recreation Department, supporting sponsors, and our community, we have been able to grow the event to engage over 150 community members annually!" This year's event will feature pollinator-themed crafts, native plant potting activities, educational exhibits, local food vendors, shaved ice and opportunities to connect with organizations working to protect natural resources throughout the Monadnock Region. For Hershon, the event is about more than celebrating bees and butterflies. It is also an opportunity to help residents understand how closely pollinator health is connected to the region's environmental and economic well-being. "Pollinator conservation is critical for our region, environmental resources, and the viability of our local economies!" Hershon said. "The impact of pollinator conservation in our region goes beyond Monadnock, especially when we keep migratory pollinators in mind like monarch butterflies. What habitat exists and is stewarded in our region, is essential for pollinator health thousands of miles away!" Pollinators play a vital role in the reproduction of many flowering plants and are responsible for pollinating crops that produce fruits, vegetables and seeds. Scientists and conservationists have increasingly focused attention on pollinator populations in recent years as many species face challenges including habitat loss, pesticide exposure, disease and changing environmental conditions. One of the most effective ways to support pollinators is by creating and maintaining habitat through native plantings, reducing pesticide use and preserving diverse landscapes that provide food and shelter throughout the growing season. The organizations participating in Pollinator Palooza represent a wide range of efforts aimed at advancing those goals. Scheduled partners include the City of Keene Parks and Recreation Department, Friends of the Ashuelot River Park, Keene Public Library, Monadnock Beekeepers Association, Monadnock Conservancy, Monadnock Outdoors, Keene Bee City, the Xerces Society and several local, state and federal conservation agencies. The event will also provide opportunities to support local businesses, with vendors including Fassett Farm Nursery, Warner River Produce, Lady Lilac Flower Farm and Florist, Kona Ice of New Hampshire and The Roving House. This year's Pollinator Palooza marks another milestone for organizers because it will be held on a weekend for the first time. "This year the event will be held for the first time on a weekend day," Hershon said. "We have seen fantastic participation when the event was offered during the week, but wanted to increase engagement and accessibility so that more community members could participate. With the timing of Pollinator Week this year, we were aware that the city was holding a Juneteenth celebration, as well as other regional events such as Winchester Ag Day, so holding the event the following weekend, especially after the school year ended, made the most sense in terms of community engagement!" Organizers hope the scheduling change will make it easier for families, working adults and community members of all ages to attend. The event's location at Ashuelot River Park provides an appropriate setting for conversations about habitat and conservation. Situated along the river in the heart of Keene, the park serves as both a recreational destination and an example of the kinds of natural spaces that support wildlife and ecological health throughout the region. Beyond the educational displays and activities, Pollinator Palooza is designed to create personal connections between people and the natural world around them. "Education and public engagement in conservation efforts is essential," Hershon said. "When I think of conservation and my environmental awareness personally, I can think back to many different touchpoints that informed my interest in the natural resources of our region. Whether it is engaging local youth or an adult who is thinking through how they can better steward their land, hands-on activities and events of this nature are essential for connecting and inspiring local conservation." That emphasis on engagement reflects a broader trend among conservation organizations, which increasingly view education and community involvement as key components of environmental stewardship. While scientific research and habitat restoration remain important, organizers say lasting conservation success often depends on helping people understand the role they can play in protecting natural resources. For attendees, that may mean learning how to plant a pollinator garden, discovering native flowers that support local wildlife, meeting beekeepers and conservation professionals, or simply gaining a new appreciation for the insects that quietly sustain ecosystems every day. Pollinator Palooza will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, at Ashuelot River Park, located at 273 West St. in Keene. The event is free and open to the public and will be held rain or shine.