Date of Award
2025
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Biological and Environmental Sciences (MSBES)
Department
Biological Sciences
First Advisor
Rebecca Brown
Abstract
This study explores the potential of highway rights-of-way (ROWs) to serve as habitats for native New England grasses and flowering plants, while also enhancing resources essential for native pollinator communities. This project emphasizes the adaptability of regionally native and insect-pollinated wildflowers and grasses to periodically mowed ROWs; the research assesses various establishment methods that are commonly used in new roadside construction. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different establishment methods for developing roadside pollinator meadows within ROW settings, using species richness (separated into forbs, grasses, insect pollinated functional groups), bare ground percentage, and seed mix germination and persistence as measures of success as well as assess the value of roadside vegetation to bee pollinators by taxonomic survey.
Test plots along I-95 in West Greenwich, RI were evaluated for the germination and growth of insect-pollinated native wildflowers. Broadcast seeding over freshly spread screened loam, followed by hydro mulching and broadcast seeding on screened loam followed by tracking, proved effective by yielding significantly greater species richness when compared to other establishment techniques. A total bee diversity survey was conducted to aid in the evaluation of plantings for pollinator forage resources. A total of 58 bees were observed: two families (Apidae, Halictidae), five genera (Apis, Bombus, Halictus, Lassioglossum, Melissodes), and five species (B. bimaculatus, B. griseocolis, B. impatiens, B. perplexus, A. mellifera) were found on the roadside. Preexisting roadside species H. radicata (Cat’s Ear) received the most visitations (21/58, 36.2%) while seeded Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan) received 12/58 (20.7%). This study offers valuable insights for the Rhode Island DOT to implement cost-efficient pollinator planting initiatives, enhance ecological services, and better highway aesthetics while providing vital pollinator habitat and forage.
Recommended Citation
Lopardo, Sophia, "BEST METHODS FOR ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF POLLINATOR PLANTINGS IN HIGHWAY RIGHTS-OF-WAY" (2025). Open Access Master's Theses. Paper 2634.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/theses/2634
Roadside Soils Test Results