In early fall, the New Canaan Land Trust meadows become a sea of yellow as the goldenrod bursts into bloom. Goldenrod is considered by the Xerces Society as one of the most important native plants that supports pollinators and other insects. Contrary to popular belief, goldenrod does not cause hay fever. It is often confused with ragweed and mugwort, two look-a-like invasive species which release their pollen spores into the wind. Goldenrod is pollinated by insects and does not release its pollen into the air. There are over 50 known insect species that depend on goldenrod at some point in their life cycle.

Here is a sample of goldenrod pollinator activity photographed at Hannan Field, Silvermine- Fowler and the Livingston-Higley meadows.