Rotary clubs partner with NAMI to create native pollinator garden in McHenry County
During the week of June 6-12, the Rotary Clubs of Lake in the Hills and Crystal Lake Dawnbreakers created a native pollinator garden at National Alliance on Mental Illness to improve environmental habitats and create a beautiful oasis for everyone at or visiting NAMI.
When NAMI took over the location in late January the front of the building had old juniper plants that have no benefit to the environment and were less than attractive. The need for a more attractive entrance area was clear.
After hearing about Rotary’s commitment to the environment and planting pollinator gardens, Abbey Nicholas, executive director of NAMI, contacted Crystal Lake Dawnbreakers Rotary to create a new facade.
Working together, the Rotary Clubs removed the old junipers and prepared the gardens for new native plants. After several days of work from volunteers, the beds were ready for the new look.
The Land Conservancy of McHenry County conducted a sight survey and recommended the appropriate plants for the location.
Over 300 native plants were planted in the three gardens. All of these plants will help the survival of the local pollinators, especially monarch butterflies. Monarchs have become an endangered species as their population has declined by 90% over the last two decades.
Other pollinators, hummingbirds, honeybees and other butterflies, will benefit from these native plants as well. Not only will this benefit the environment it will create a spectacular display of flowers for everyone to enjoy.
Native plants have numerous benefits both ecologically and practically.
Because they have evolved to thrive in our conditions, they require little maintenance, water and no fertilizers. They also provide essential food and habitat for native wildlife, they support the eco food chain and prevent erosion and flooding through their deep root systems.
For more information in starting a pollinator garden contact conservemc.org or your local Rotary Club.