Homeowners throughout Johnson County are eligible for the Johnson County Soil Health Pocket Prairie Program, which helps convert turf grass into pocket prairies. Priority will be given to residents of the unincorporated area (outside city limits).

Residents of Johnson County’s unincorporated area can apply online beginning at 9 a.m. CT, Wednesday, July 1. Residents within any city in Johnson County can apply beginning at 9 a.m. CT, Wednesday, July 15, for any spots that remain open. Approval for participation will be first-come, first-served based on applicant group.

The program is a collaboration between Johnson County and Master Gardeners of Johnson County. Participants receive training and enough native plants to establish a 10’ by 10’ pollinator garden. Approved participants must have suitable site conditions, attend a workshop and commit to three years of maintenance to establish their native plots.

Prairie plants provide habitat for bees, butterflies and other insects and animals, while the plants’ extensive deep roots improve soil health. Healthy soil helps infiltrate rainfall and keep pollutants out of creeks and streams.

Interested homeowners can learn more and apply online for the Pocket Prairie Program at https://johnsoncountyiowa.gov/JoCoPPP. The Pocket Prairie Program is part of Johnson County’s Soil Health Program.  

For more information, contact Kasey Hutchinson, environmental regulations coordinator, or Becky Soglin, sustainability coordinator, in the Planning, Development and Sustainability Department at [email protected] or 319-356-6083.