By Andi Anderson
A new prairie restoration project by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is bringing pollinator-friendly habitats to the Turkeyville Rest Area in Calhoun County, Michigan.
This initiative transforms 14 acres of former farmland into a vibrant tallgrass prairie filled with diverse wildflowers and grasses, enhancing habitats for monarch butterflies and other pollinator species.
"The goal of this prairie restoration project is to create habitat for many pollinator species in an area beyond the operational right of way to serve as a safe refuge and connector to other suitable habitat in the landscape," said Kelsey Alvarado, MDOT’s Ecological Resources Specialist.
The prairie includes milkweed to support monarch butterflies, which play a critical role in pollination. Alvarado emphasized the importance of patience, explaining that wildflower blooms typically take two to three years to establish.
Once complete, the prairie will be self-sustaining, requiring minimal upkeep while providing a vital food source for pollinators.
MDOT received a $5,100 grant from the University of Illinois Chicago and Stantec to fund the project. The funds will be used to purchase the diverse seed mix. Preparations are underway, including herbicide applications, with seeding planned for spring 2025.
Similar projects at MDOT rest areas have been successful, reducing maintenance needs while creating beautiful, ecologically significant spaces. For more on MDOT’s pollinator initiatives, visit the MDOT's website - Pollinator Habitat Management Program.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jimfeng
Categories: Michigan, Business