What Is Our Relationship with Pollinators?

June 16, 2025

Emily Jeung

Have you ever stopped to think about the tiny heroes buzzing, fluttering, and humming all around us? Pollinators, such as native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, play an enormous role in keeping our world blooming. Yet their stories are often overlooked.

At Pacific Science Center, we are excited to explore this question through our Pollinator Path exhibit and the hands-on Pollinator Path Cart. These experiences help guests discover how they can become active stewards of pollinators right here in the Pacific Northwest.

A Living Exhibit, Led by Indigenous Voices

Pacific Science Center reimagined the Pollinator Path in collaboration with Owen Oliver (Quinault/Isleta Pueblo) and Headwater People. This project prioritizes a Native-led interpretive approach and the result is an experience that invites reflection not just on pollination but on relationship.

You will hear the names of plants spoken in Chinuk Wawa, a Pacific Northwest trade language historically used across many Indigenous nations. Interpretive panels share how certain plants have supported life in this region for generations. Visitors are encouraged to notice what they recognize, what is new to them, and what role they might play in the ecosystem.

This storytelling is guided by Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK). TEK is the body of knowledge Indigenous communities have developed through deep and respectful relationships with the land over thousands of years.

Thoughtful Research and Development Behind the Curriculum

The Pollinator Path Cart did not come together overnight. Our Science Engagement team, with Kylee N. leading this project, invested significant research and collaboration to create experiences that are scientifically accurate and culturally meaningful.

We partnered with experts, such as The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, to learn about the diversity and biology of native pollinators. We studied many species of bees that call the Pacific Northwest home, their unique nesting habits, and their critical roles in our ecosystems.

We also worked closely with Indigenous partners and drew from Indigenous knowledge systems to weave TEK principles into the curriculum. This ensures that the stories and activities not only teach science but also honor the deep, respectful relationships Indigenous peoples have had with the land and pollinators for generations.

Get Your Hands Dirty with the Pollinator Cart

One of the best ways to connect with pollinators is to get your hands in the dirt. At the heart of the Pollinator Cart experience is making seed balls. This fun activity lets you choose native wildflower seeds and create little balls of potential habitat.

This simple act is inspired by natural gardening techniques and Indigenous land stewardship. It is not just about planting seeds but about planting intentions.

Kylee N., Science Engagement Facilitator, explains how the cart sparks real conversations about how pollinators touch our lives and how we can return the favor.

Guests of all ages enjoy thinking about where their seed balls will take root. Whether in grandma’s garden, a local park, or a quiet corner of their own backyard, these little seed balls carry big hopes for restoring pollinator habitats across our communities.

Stewardship That Starts in Our Own Backyard

The Pacific Northwest is home to hundreds of native pollinator species. Each has unique habits and needs. Unfortunately, their survival is threatened by shrinking habitats, invasive plants, and harmful pesticides.

Here is the good news: stewardship does not have to be complicated or overwhelming.

Inspired by Indigenous teachings, we know that even small actions can make a huge difference.

Here are ways you can help pollinators thrive:

Plant native flowers that bloom throughout the seasons, offering food and shelter all year long.

Leave patches of bare soil or dead wood. Pollinators like ground-nesting bees need these cozy spots.

Say no to pesticides and choose pollinator-friendly gardening products.

Honor Indigenous knowledge by learning how land, plants, and pollinators are deeply connected.

Each seed ball you make, and each native plant you grow, is a step toward rebuilding a landscape where pollinators and people flourish together.

Why It Matters and Why You Should Care

Pollinators do more than help flowers bloom. They support the food on our tables, the health of our environment, and the rich cultural traditions of the Indigenous peoples who have cared for this land for millennia.

When you visit the Pollinator Path and try out the Pollinator Cart, you join a growing community of people asking: What is our relationship with pollinators? It is a question that invites curiosity, respect, and action.

So next time you visit Pacific Science Center, stop by, get your hands dirty, and see how you can be part of this vital story.

When we care for pollinators, we are caring for the world and ourselves.

Plan Your Visit

The Pollinator Path is open to all daytime guests and included with general admission to Pacific Science Center. No additional ticket is needed.

Accessibility: The path is wheelchair accessible, with large-font and Spanish-language options available via onsite QR codes.

Enhance Your Visit with IMAX

Don’t miss Flight of the Butterflies, a stunning IMAX documentary that tells the true story of one scientist’s 40-year quest to uncover the secret migratory journey of the monarch butterfly. With breathtaking cinematography and hundreds of millions of real butterflies on screen, this film is a powerful companion to your Pollinator Path experience.

Get IMAX Tickets

Learn More

Curious to learn more about pollinators, native gardening, or the work behind our exhibit?

Here are some great next steps to keep your journey growing:

Dive Deeper into the Pollinator Path: Get the full vision behind the exhibit and how it connects science, Indigenous knowledge, and community stewardship.
Meet the Team: Discover the passionate people creating immersive, educational spaces at Pacific Science Center.
Discover Our Ongoing Courtyard Project: See how we’re transforming our outdoor spaces into welcoming habitats for pollinators and people alike.
Build Your Own Pollinator Garden: Get tips for supporting pollinators at home with native plants and simple habitat ideas.
Learn More About Pollinator W eek: Join the national celebration and find ways to get involved in pollinator conservation year-round.

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about the author

Emily Jeung is a passionate marketing and communications professional based in Seattle, working at Pacific Science Center. Specializing in engaging content creation and strategic outreach, Emily is dedicated to enhancing the center’s mission of delivering impactful science education and fostering community connections. When she isn’t working, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, crafting, and cooking.

Email Emily for insights and collaboration opportunities.