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.
Review the materials below for specific information:
Planting Guide to get your plot ready!
Native Mix Packet 2025
Back Yard Mix Packet 2025
Conservation Mix Packet 2025
High Elevation Mix Packet 2025
How do I start a pollinator plot?
In order to receive free seed, participants are expected to use the seed on property they own in Lewis and Clark County, commit to proper site preparation and maintenance, and help with some basic monitoring efforts.
Sign ups for 2025’s program have closed. If you are interested in signing up for 2026’s program, sign up for our emailed newsletter. Information about the program will go out late winter/early spring in 2026.
Additional Resources
