Grow habitat that's good for pollinators

When you imagine what “habitat” looks like, what comes to mind? For me, it is easy to picture the forested mountains and numerous rivers and streams of Sanders County, which many fish and wildlife species call home. However, for many pollinator species, you do not have to look any further than your own backyard.

Pollinators, like bees, butterflies and moths, live in a wide variety of habitats and rely on many different food sources. When these species visit a flower for its pollen or nectar, they may unwittingly brush against the flower’s reproductive parts and pass along pollen from a different flower. Approximately one-third of the world’s food crops rely on pollinator species, so they also have an economic benefit.

However, many pollinator species are threatened by habitat loss and other challenges. For this reason, Eastern Sanders County and Green Mountain Conservation Districts are teaming up with landowners in Sanders County to promote pollinator habitat. This is a part of a larger program to promote pollinator habitat across western Montana being spearheaded by Lake County Conservation District in Ronan.

If you are interested in growing food for pollinators, free seed mix for plots of 100, 250, 500 or 2,500 square feet are available at both the Eastern Sanders County Conservation District and the Green Mountain Conservation District as a part of the Sanders County Pollinator Initiative.

This mix is specially selected for Sanders County and includes flowers of all shapes and sizes. It is best planted in the early spring or late fall.

Through the Pollinator Initiative and with support the Lower Clark Fork Watershed Group and the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s 223 Program, conservation districts can connect landowners with support for developing a pollinator garden as well as implementing other conservation practices, such as improving streamside vegetation or installing riparian fencing. Contact Green Mountain Conservation District at (406) 827-4833 or at [email protected]. Eastern Sanders County Conservation District can be reached at (406) 826-3751 or at [email protected].