The Sautee Nacoochee Center (SNC) has received a grant to restore streambanks and enhance pollinator habitat on local farms. The funding will support the center’s Environmental Stewardship and Preservation program, along with the UGA White County Extension Service, according to a news release from SNC.
The program offers support and native plants to local farms impacted by erosion, storm damage, and upstream changes to waterways.
Streambank restoration can reduce erosion and stabilize banks while also providing economic benefits for farmers. Elderberry is a common local streambank plant that has become popular in recent years in the nutritional supplement industry ($320 million) and is used in food and beverage products.
Pollination is essential for the production of one-third of the foods consumed by humans. Blueberries, for example, rely on bumblebees for pollination. Columbine, goldenrod, penstemon, and native sunflowers are common plants in our area that attract bees.
Carpenter bees can pollinate many plants and work into the fall, later than other bees. Some of the crops they pollinate include eggplant and tomatoes.
Restoring streambanks and enhancing pollinator habitats can help to increase biodiversity and improve ecosystem health, says SNC’s Volunteer Coordinator Kat Stratton.
The grant program is open to White County farms. In addition to offering funding for streambank restoration and native plant planting, the program will provide educational opportunities for farm owners.
Anyone interested in learning more about the grant program or how they can apply is encouraged to contact Johnna Tuttle at [email protected]. Applications are due by September 15, and will be reviewed by a committee to determine which projects best fit the grant requirements. The selected projects will be implemented in October.
People interested in volunteering to assist owners with the planting process are encouraged to contact SNC’s Volunteer Coordinator, Kat Stratton, at [email protected].
