Are you thinking of ditching your lawn to create a thriving pollinator habitat? Lawns to Legumes is a government-funded organization that awards bi-yearly grants to help Minnesotans support Minnesota’s native bees, butterflies, and other essential species, right in their backyards.
Keep reading to learn more about Lawn to Legumes, how to apply, and how Prairie Restorations can help.
Minnesota is home to over 450 native bee species, along with butterflies, moths, beetles, and other essential pollinators. These species pollinate our food crops and native plants. However, their populations face serious decline due to habitat loss, pesticide use, pathogens, and a lack of necessary nutrition. Lawns to Legumes is designed to fight this decline by awarding grants to Minnesotans who create new pollinator habitats and corridors, providing vital food sources and nesting spaces.
Lawns to Legumes is made possible by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, with funding from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, the Minnesota General Fund, and support from the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Lawns to Legumes grants are awarded bi-annually, in the spring and fall. Interested in applying? Here’s how:
Minnesota residents interested in creating or who have created pollinator habitats can apply for cost-share funding through Lawns to Legumes. The program offers up to $400 to help cover the costs of your project. Please be aware that applying for Lawns to Legumes does not guarantee that you will receive financial support. If your application is selected, the funding will be granted to you as a reimbursement.
After the application submission deadline, a lottery system selects grant recipients. This system prioritizes applicants in areas critical to at-risk pollinators and ensures geographic diversity across the state. Additional consideration is given to low-income, minority, and tribal communities.
If your application is selected, you’ll receive a notification with details about the next steps.
After selection, you’ll move forward with creating your pollinator habitat, following the guidelines provided by the program.
Once your project is completed and meets the program’s criteria, you’ll receive reimbursement for your approved expenses, up to the $400 limit.
We’re excited to help you transform your yard into a pollinator haven, whether you’re new to gardening or have years of experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting your hands dirty for the first time, our native plant and pollinator experts are here to assist you. Visit our garden centers, and we’ll help you find everything you need for your pollinator restoration.
Our events and workshops are the best place to learn from our experts, connect with like-minded enthusiasts, and gain hands-on experience. Check out our calendar for upcoming events and reserve your spot today!
Prairie Restorations, Inc. can help you create a beautiful, pollinator-friendly native landscape on your property. By swapping out turf for native plants, you’ll create vital habitats for endangered species and enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance yard.
Our resources are packed with helpful information, expert advice, and inspiring ideas to help you create a beautiful, pollinator-friendly landscape. Learn more about how Prairie Restorations' free resources can help you with your Lawns to Legumes project!
Learn more about the importance of native plants for pollinators and how to transform your lawn into a pollinator-friendly landscape with our comprehensive Native Planting Guide.
If you have any questions about Lawns to Legumes or need guidance on your pollinator project, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is ready to assist you in making your yard a welcoming home for Minnesota’s pollinators.