Pollinator Conservation

Iowa has roughly 2,500 native pollinators! That is a great reason to get connected to nature and become more sustainable.

Check out what we are doing to help these amazing creatures:

The City of Ames Pollinator Friendly Community Plan 2023 - 2033

Pollinator Friendly Ames

The city of Ames has a 10 pollinator friendly community plan. See what we are up to and find great resources!

Native Seed store photo

Native Seed bank

Habitat loss is one of the leading causes of pollinator decline. That’s why we created a native seed bank to make it more accessible.

Rattlesnake Master with bumblebee

FAQ

Curious about pollinators and native plants? Check out some of the most frequently asked questions.

The City of Ames Pollinator Friendly Community Plan 2023 - 2033

Environmental Education and Community Events

Monarch Magic is an annual pollinator educational event in Ames aimed at families.  We also participate in tabling events and regularly give talks about water quality, pollinators, and conservation to community groups around the state.

Conservation Connection Blog

A big part of our work is telling engaging stories to help explain the science and policy behind the environmental issues we work on.  Here are three of our latest posts from the Conservation Connect Blog.  We’ve also compiled some of our most accessible content related to soil and water (which can get complicated) as an FAQ.

Calibrate Your Disgust

Calibrate Your Disgust

There is a 100-fold difference in E. coli levels between Iowa’s cleanest lakes and Iowa’s dirtiest rivers, and between new and outdated sewage treatment systems. That leaves a lot of wiggle room to enjoy Iowa’s waters while protecting your health, and to make things a little better by repairing our infrastructure.

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Troubleshooting a  Rain Garden

Troubleshooting a Rain Garden

Rain gardens are a stormwater management solution that’s simple enough to tackle as a DIY project. However, I’ve noticed a few things that can go wrong. Here are some tips to avoid them!

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Create a Native Plant Sensory Garden!

Create a Native Plant Sensory Garden!

A sensory garden involves all of your senses (taste, touch, smell, sound, and sight) making it a great learning opportunity for young children, adults with mental disabilities, or really anyone! These are the plants I would use if I wanted to create an Iowa native sensory garden!

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Get In Touch

 

3116 S. Duff Suite 201

Ames IA 50010

(515) 232-0048

Email our Pollinator Conservation Specialist,

Katelyn Rinicker.