Help out pollinators in Lewis & Clark County!
Did you know that roughly 1/3 of all the foods we eat rely on pollination to be produced? The Lewis & Clark Conservation District is offering FREE wildflower seed mix to landowners in the county to plant pollinator plots on their property. These plots help create critical habitat and food sources for Montana’s native pollinators and other beneficial insects. Plots can be as simple as a small corner of a yard or garden or larger areas up to 2500 square feet. Participants are expected to commit to proper site prep and maintenance, and will be asked to help with monitoring efforts.
The Pollinator Initiative program is gaining momentum among Conservation Districts throughout Montana to create and protect habitat for these critical species! We are able to offer free seed mix to landowners thanks to grant funding from the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation!
In the five years that Lewis & Clark Conservation District has run our program (2020-2024), we have distributed over 15 acres worth of seed to 286 individuals, many of whom have participated for multiple years.
Why plant a pollinator plot?
Pollinator plots provide a critical source of food and habitat for pollinator species like bees, butterflies, and moths as well as other beneficial insect species. These insects face increasing habitat pressure from development and agriculture. Pollinator plots contain numerous flower species with different bloom periods that provide a food source throughout the season. Different pollinators rely on different flowers, so a diverse plot increases the diversity of species you will attract!
Why different seed mixes?
Each mix offers a variety of wildflowers and grasses selected with the assistance of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, to thrive in our area. The Native Mix contains wildflower species native to Montana as well as slender wheatgrass. The Back Yard Mix is best for smaller plot sizes in areas that receive more attention. The Conservation Mix includes a mix of wildflowers and grasses (native and nonnative) that are great for pollinators, but also can compete against weed pressure. The newest mix for 2025 is the High Elevation Mix. We will only have a small amount of this–IF we can get it. Our staff can help you select which seed mix is most suitable for your site.
How do I start a pollinator plot?
If you are interested in planting your own pollinator plot, fill out an application as noted below. Our staff can assist you with any questions you have about the program and getting your plot setup. In order to receive free seed, participants are expected to commit to proper site preparation and maintenance and help with some basic monitoring efforts. We are really excited about this program and hope everyone has success.
In 2025, you can apply for seed in 2 ways. Our preference would be the online application. Alternatively, you can download the form, fill it out and email it to chris@lewisandclarkcd.org. Last year, we lost of few of these; they either didn’t make it to us, or we inadvertently missed them, which is why we would prefer the online application.
Additional Resources
Pollinators and Pollinator Habitat – presentation for Gold Country Master Gardener’s Association (slides)
