Assembly Resolution No. 694

BY: M. of A. Skoufis

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
June 19-25, 2017, as Pollinator Week in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official weeks that are set aside to increase awareness of serious
issues which affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 19-25, 2017, as
Pollinator Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of National Pollinator Week; and

WHEREAS, In 2007, the United States Senate unanimously approved and
designated the final week in June as National Pollinator Week, to mark
the necessary step toward addressing the urgent issue of declining
pollinator populations; since that time, tremendous success has been
made regarding this vital concern; and

WHEREAS, Pollinator species such as birds and insects are essential
partners of farmers and ranchers in producing much of our food supply;
and

WHEREAS, Pollination plays a vital role in the health of our
national forests and grasslands, which provide forage for fish and
wildlife, timber, water, mineral resources, and recreational
opportunities as well as enhanced economic development opportunities for
communities; and

WHEREAS, Pollinator species provide significant environmental
benefits that are necessary for maintaining healthy, biodiverse
ecosystems; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York has managed wildlife habitats and
public lands such as Allegheny State Park forests, Niagara Falls
National Heritage Area, and grasslands for decades; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York provides producers with conservation
assistance to promote wise conservation stewardship, including the
protection and maintenance of pollinators and their habitats on working
lands and wildlands; and

WHEREAS, In 2010, 36 States declared their own Pollinator Week and
in only six years, Pollinator Week has grown to be an international
celebration of the valuable ecosystem services provided by bees, birds,
butterflies, bats, and beetles; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 19-25, 2017, as
Pollinator Week in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.