RICHLAND COUNTY — The Native Yard Project, with support from The North Central Ohio Land Conservancy, is accepting applications for the Cash for Grass Grant Program from now until March 15.
The program offers small grants to help residents in the Richland County area offset the cost of converting portions of lawn to native plant habitat.
Native plant habitats are a vital component to combatting the current biodiversity crisis; the mass extinction of pollinators and other wildlife.
Without these creatures, our ecosystem cannot function properly. And it’s not just wildlife that are in danger, us humans also rely on a functioning ecosystem for survival and well-being.
The situation may be dire, but fortunately the solution is simple and actionable: plant natives.
Native plants are those that have naturally occured in a particular area for thousands of years. Pollinating insects have coevolved with native plants, and they both depend on each other for reproduction. Native plants can be flowers, grasses, sedges, shrubs or trees. Because they are perfectly acclimated to our growing conditions, they require less care in the way of water and fertilizer.
The Native Yard Project’s mission is to educate, advocate and support the community in creating landscapes with native plants, resulting in a more resilient ecosystem.
Free assistance is available to anyone wishing to create native plant habitat at home or in the community, including: help with planning, design and plant selection.
Their flagship initiative, the Cash for Grass Grant Program is now in its second year. These grants cover the purchase of native plants and/or seeds.
The size and amount of grants available will be determined by the number, quality and scope of applications received. Generally speaking, grantees can expect to be awarded anywhere from $50-$250.
Projects that aim to reduce lawn size are encouraged, however, those seeking to supplement an existing planting or flower bed are also eligible.
The online application can be accessed here. For additional assistance or information, email nativeyardproject@gmail.com. Deadline is March 15th.