Aitkin Pollinator Restoration

Aitkin County Land Department (ACLD) manages 305 acres of upland grass areas that are ?under? managed for the inherent benefits for wildlife. These upland grass areas are capable of supporting rich species diversity of wildflowers, forbs, and grasses which benefit pollinators. There is a well documented crisis facing pollinator populations in the region. To better understand the resource and possible solutions, Aitkin County worked with the University of Minnesota. In 2016, a university research botanist evaluated seven sites conducting over 240 plots and transects revisiting the sites through that summer. Conclusions from the research showed that despite their potential, there was low species diversity at these sites.
U of M recommendations to ACLD management are to increase species diversity at these upland grass sites. According to Nature, "What bees (pollinators) need most, the new pollination studies have shown, is a diverse community of flowering plants that bloom throughout the spring and summer. Abundance and diversity matter more ...?
Therefore, ACLD implemented pilot restoration projects at two sites in the fall of 2016. Nine (9) small patches of upland grass were disced and seeded with a seed mix approved by the Xerces Society for Pollinator habitat enhancement and restoration. The goal was to improve species diversity in patches that could expand and colonize additional adjacent areas of grassland habitat.
It typically takes two to three years for wildflowers to bloom. However, initial reconnaissance show success and germination. ACLD seeks to expand the success of this initial effort and restore additional acreages for pollinators.