A grant from TC Energy is providing the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA) staff in northeast Indiana with additional resources to create pollinator habitats and improve overall biodiversity. Awarded to the Monarch Joint Venture (MJV), this grant will fund the purchase of a native seed mix to establish 54 acres of prairie-pollinator habitat in Noble County, thanks to TC Energy's generosity.
“At TC Energy, environmental stewardship is more than a commitment – it is a fundamental responsibility.”, says Trevence Mitchell, TC Energy’s Social Impact Manager. “Our Build Strong community investment program is designed to drive meaningful conservation efforts that protect and enhance biodiversity. By supporting crucial habitat restoration projects like this one with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and Monarch Joint Venture, we are investing in the ecological health of our communities and creating sustainable pathways for native species to thrive.”
Native pollinator habitats are essential for maintaining ecological balance. They offer essential resources to various species, such as bees, butterflies, songbirds, and gamebirds. However, habitat loss and other factors have severely impacted monarch butterfly populations, contributing to significant declines and threatening their extraordinary migration across North America. Recognizing these challenges, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced this past December a proposed rule to list the monarch butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts like creating and restoring pollinator habitat.
“Here at Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area, we’re working with partners like MJV to make pollinator conservation a priority. By creating and restoring native pollinator habitat, we are providing food, shelter and other resources for these critical species”, said Dericke Lavoine, IN DNR Property Manager at Tri-County FWA. “This work also provides opportunities for our volunteers and community scientists to take an active role in mitigating the many challenges pollinators face in our modern world.”
The primary goal of this habitat project is to increase biodiversity by establishing more than two dozen perennial native wildflowers, benefiting pollinators and a multitude of other species. The Indiana DNR will oversee the management and maintenance of this habitat project, including site preparation and dormant seeding during the winter of 2025/2026. The Monarch Joint Venture will play a crucial role by providing technical guidance, supplying the seed mix, and offering marketing and communication support.
“Projects like this are often discussed and delayed for extended periods. We aim to support every opportunity to facilitate high-quality, on-the-ground habitat projects that are ready for timely implementation,” said Jake Koenig, MJV Midwest Habitat Coordinator. “Our strong partnership with the team at Tri-County FWA enables us to not only discuss these vital projects but also bring them to life.”
The collaboration of diverse partners is essential in making projects like this a reality. Learn more about the partners participating in this project via their website links below: