The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) is offering the Lawns to Legumes pollinator habitat grants program for spring 2025. This initiative aims to enhance habitat for at-risk pollinators in residential areas throughout Minnesota. The program provides reimbursement-based funding, workshops, coaching, and gardening resources to support the installation of pollinator-friendly native plantings. BWSR's mission, as suggested by this program, aligns with environmental conservation and community engagement, fostering biodiversity and ecological health within the state.
The target beneficiaries of the program are Minnesota residents, including both homeowners and renters, with yards, decks, or other outdoor spaces suitable for planting. The impact goal is to increase pollinator habitat in residential areas, thereby supporting at-risk pollinator species. This is achieved through individual support grants for native plantings and Pollinator Pathways grants, which enable local governments and nonprofit organizations to run broader pollinator programs.
The program prioritizes a multi-faceted approach, offering workshops, coaching, and planting guides alongside financial assistance. This focus ensures that participants are not only provided with funding but also with the knowledge and tools necessary for successful habitat creation. A key strategic priority is public education, aimed at raising awareness about the importance of creating pollinator habitats across Minnesota. BWSR partners with organizations like Metro Blooms and Blue Thumb – Planting for Clean Water to administer the program, leveraging collaborative efforts for broader reach and impact.
The expected outcomes include a measurable increase in new pollinator habitats established in residential areas, directly contributing to the conservation of at-risk pollinator populations. Participants can receive up to $400 in reimbursement for expenses, incentivizing widespread adoption. The program's theory of change posits that by empowering individuals and local organizations with resources, knowledge, and financial support, a collective effort can significantly contribute to reversing the decline of pollinator populations and fostering healthier ecosystems across the state.
