Pocket Prairies, Endangered Bees, & Dubuque’s Big-Little Impact

Dubuque County is buzzing with excitement as the Mowing to Monarchs program helps transform ordinary lawns into vibrant, pollinator-friendly pocket prairies. It super easy to do almost anywhere. My family has maintained a small "pocket prairie" for 3 years now next to our house. It's super low maintenance and is always a buzz with butterflies, bees, and various insects. Now this Dubuque-driven effort is making a big impact, especially considering the sighting of the endangered Rusty Patched Bumblebee in 2022.

Dubuque's Mowing to Monarchs and Pocket Prairies

The Mowing to Monarchs program, a collaboration between Dubuque County Conservation and Dubuque County Master Gardeners, provides residents with free prairie plants and guidance on creating pocket prairies. These small patches of native plants, typically around 130 square feet, are designed to mimic Iowa’s natural prairies, offering critical habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

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Participants commit to a three-year journey of planting and nurturing these prairies, which are both beautiful and beneficial. The native plants thrive with minimal maintenance once established, providing nectar and pollen throughout the growing season while also supporting other wildlife.

Creating a pocket prairie involves careful planning. Grasses like Prairie Dropseed and Little Bluestem set the stage, while flowering plants like Butterfly Milkweed and Purple Prairie Clover attract pollinators. Although it takes about three years for a prairie to fully mature, the result is a dynamic, low-maintenance ecosystem that enhances biodiversity and adds natural beauty to the community.

The Rusty Patched Bumblebee: A Local Success Story

One of the most exciting outcomes of this initiative has been the sighting of the Rusty Patched Bumblebee in Dubuque. This endangered species has suffered from habitat loss, but thanks to efforts like the pocket prairie at Westminster Church, it’s making a comeback in our local area. The Rusty Patched Bumblebee plays a vital role in pollinating various plants, including those important for agriculture. Its presence underscores the importance of restoring natural habitats, even on a small scale.

How Do I Join the Movement?

The success of the Mowing to Monarchs program shows that community efforts can make a difference. If you or someone you know is interested in helping pollinators, consider joining this initiative. By creating a pocket prairie, you’re not only beautifying your surroundings but also supporting endangered species and promoting environmental health.

Let’s continue to expand these vital habitats in Dubuque County and help save our pollinators, one pocket prairie at a time. For more information or to get involved, reach out to the Mowing to Monarchs team today!