The native prairie garden at Virtues Park in Faribault has doubled in size, thanks to volunteers from Partners for Pollinators, who collaborated to expand the garden and enhance the diversity of native plant species on the site.
Later this fall, an oak tree will be planted in the garden. Oaks are considered a keystone species—they play a critical role in supporting biodiversity. In fact, more than 500 species of insects, birds, and mammals rely on oaks for habitat. Native plants will also be added beneath the tree to create “soft landings” for caterpillars and other insects that live in the oak’s ecosystem.
The expansion of the garden was a collaborative effort between the Partners for Pollinators, the City of Faribault, Rice County Master Gardeners, and the Rice Soil and Water Conservation District. Partners for Pollinators received two grants for the project. The Wild Ones Southeast Minnesota Prairie Partners provided funds for the native prairie plants and the oak tree. Thrivent Financial also provided a grant for the site prep materials and some educational signage that will be added to the project.
Thanks to this partnership-driven effort, Virtues Park is not only more beautiful, but also more ecologically valuable—a vibrant space for pollinators and the community to enjoy.
