The Native Oasis Pollinator Patch Program is a collaboration between Monarch Research, the Linn County Master Gardeners, and the cities of Cedar Rapids and Marion. In the fall of 2024 we started a pilot group of 50 properties and homeowners interested in turning a portion of their grass lawns into native pollinator habitat. In September of 2025 we will kick off our BETA group: we have supplemental funding for 200 participants, who will receive expert guidance and support, education, site preparation materials and native plants to populate a plot of approximately 130 square feet.
Imagine your yard buzzing with life!
We will help you create a beautiful landscape that does double duty. With our program, you'll learn from
experts, get hands-on help, and access the resources you need to attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. It's not just about your yard – you'll be contributing to a network of healthy habitats across Linn County, giving wildlife a helping hand.
Participants will fund $80 of this $300 valued project. Supplemental funding is provided by Monarch Research as well as the City of Cedar Rapids and the City of Marion.
Participant Requirements:
- Be a homeowner in Cedar Rapids, Marion, or Hiawatha
- Have a plan for your property; a simple sketch of where/how you envision a native plant area is helpful
- Make a 3-year commitment: the program is designed to help your native plantings thrive over time
- Ensure your yard is suitable: the area should be free of pooled or standing water
- Ensure the intended location is not located on a city utility or sewer easement
- Attend workshops: learn from experts at workshops (September 2025)
- Be open to collaboration: your mentor will visit your yard to give planting guidance and we will rely on you to help us shape the program for future years!
Benefits- Education: Seasoned Master Gardeners will provide workshops and ongoing communication throughout the program.
- Site preparation assistance: We'll guide you on preparing your planning area and provide the materials in fall 2025.
- Native plant delivery: You'll receive a curated selection of native plants in May 2026.
- Personalized garden layout: We'll help you design a native plant area that fits your space (approximately 100-130 square feet).
- Ongoing support: We'll provide guidance on watering, weeding, and protecting your new plantings in the first year.
You Can Make a Difference: Convert a portion of your grass lawn to a biodiverse-rich pollinator patch that will attract butterflies and songbirds to your yard and beyond.
Be part of something big: several other counties in eastern Iowa are starting or have started pocket prairie programs, too. It takes us all to restore native habitats and bring back pollinator populations!
