Native Oasis
The Native Oasis program is a comprehensive initiative designed to help homeowners in Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Hiawatha transform their yards with high-value native plants. This program offers a multifaceted approach to support residents in creating pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Native Oasis
We are excited to launch the Native Oasis Pollinator Patch Program. Our pilot started in August 2024, with fifty seven home owners in Cedar Rapids, Marion, Hiawatha and our surrounding communities working with Monarch Research and Linn County Master Gardeners to transform approximately 130 square feet of their yards into an attractive native pollinator habitat.
What's a Native Oasis? Imagine your yard buzzing with life!
By combining education, hands-on guidance, and practical resources, the program empowers homeowners to contribute to local bio-diversity while enhancing the beauty of their properties. This initiative not only benefits individual yards, but also contributes to the broader goal of creating interconnected habitats for pollinators and other wildlife across Linn County.
Planning is underway for the Native Oasis BETA starting in June 2025. If you are interested in getting direct notification regarding the 2025 program, sign up below.
How it works:
To participate, you’ll need to be a homeowner in Cedar Rapids, Marion, or Hiawatha and have a basic idea for your yard—something as simple as a quick sketch showing where you’d like a native plant area works perfectly. The program asks for a three-year commitment to help your plants thrive over time and requires that your yard is suitable for planting, with no areas of standing or pooled water. You’ll also have the chance to attend workshops led by experts to learn valuable tips and guidance. Collaboration is key—your mentor will visit your yard to provide planting advice, and your feedback will help us improve the program for future participants (maybe your neighbors!)