In 2025, 25 residential pollinator habitat projects were funded through the Lawns to Legumes Pollinator Pathways program, contributing over 17,000 sq ft of pollinator habitat to Anoka County residential areas! This program seeks to benefit at-risk pollinator species, such as the Monarch Butterfly and the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, by increasing native plant resources in residential areas and raising awareness of pollinator conservation practices.

Eligible project practices include:
- Native pocket plantings
- Beneficial flowering tree and shrub plantings
- Pollinator-friendly lawns
- Pollinator meadows

Grant recipients can receive professional assistance with garden design, construction specifications, and maintenance. Interested landowners should review the cost-share program fact sheet. Ideal candidates will be committed to maintaining the project, as this program aims to demonstrate high-quality pollinator habitat projects. Complete this Google Form to request an application, or contact Jordi Johnson, Restoration Technician, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Sharing some joy from Hayes Elementary School - Message from teacher Cara Claggett: "Both gardens are beautiful with huge and happy plants that loved all the rain this summer. It was SO fun to watch the kids notice them as they returned this week. They are very proud to have had a part in developing the thriving gardens that have lots of butterfly and bee visitors." 

Thanks to Jordi for all her work preparing the site, planting with students, and helping Cara with maintenance this summer!

In 2025, ACD partnered with three Anoka County libraries (Northtown Library, Johnsville Library, and St. Francis Library) to add native pollinator plantings to their properties. These small plantings have converted 650 sq ft of turfgrass into pollinator-supporting habitats and have connected residents to green spaces at their local libraries. We're excited to see these plantings flourish next spring!