UDAF Pollinator Habitat Program

The Utah Pollinator Habitat Grant is administered by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) to support pollinator habitat development across the state. Originally initiated as a three-year pilot under House Bill 224 in 2021, the program became a permanent fixture in 2025 following the passage of House Bill 251. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the ecological and agricultural value of pollinators—particularly native bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial species. UDAF’s mission is to enhance pollinator health through habitat creation, connectivity improvements, and public education, providing financial support to a wide range of applicants. The program seeks to address the rapid decline in pollinator populations due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Through its cost-share model, the Utah Pollinator Habitat Grant offers up to 75% reimbursement for approved expenses related to the planting of native, pollinator-friendly vegetation. The grant aims to support efforts that increase pollen and nectar availability, improve habitat connectivity, and expand native seed use across Utah. Particular focus is given to enhancing landscapes in habitat corridors and watershed areas. Applicants may include individuals, nonprofits, local and state government agencies, educational institutions, Native American tribes, commercial entities, land trusts, and other community organizations. Projects must be located within Utah and implemented on property owned or managed by the applicant. Awardees will receive regionally appropriate plant kits for installation in early fall, and irrigation must be available for successful plant establishment. The program emphasizes native plant use and biodiversity, with pre-selected plant kits designed to support Utah’s ecological regions. The application window for the 2026 cycle runs from March 1 through April 15. All submissions must be completed online via the Submittable portal, which requires users to create or log into a UtahID. Incomplete applications or proposals that do not meet the criteria for successful project implementation will not be considered. Returning applicants who have not submitted required annual reports for previous years (2023–2025) are ineligible. UDAF provides educational webinars and resources through its YouTube channel to help applicants prepare competitive proposals. Evaluation of proposals is conducted on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to project suitability and alignment with program goals. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review project criteria and attend the program webinar scheduled for March 18, 2026. Notifications of award decisions will be issued no later than June 3, 2026, followed by an awardee webinar on July 22, 2026. Selected projects will receive their plant kits in early fall, and reporting will be required annually through 2028 for monitoring and program compliance. Questions regarding the application process can be directed to Program Manager Liz Hamilton at [email protected]. The grant program operates under the Utah Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA), meaning awarded applications and related documentation may be subject to public disclosure. With its broad eligibility, substantial cost-share model, and ecological mission, the Utah Pollinator Habitat Grant represents a significant investment in preserving the health and function of pollinator ecosystems throughout the state.

View webinar content on UDAF YouTube channel for guidance on successful proposals.