March/April 2023 - 21

SUSTAINABILITY
Through this program, farmers can receive free or highly
subsidized annual and perennial wildflower seeds tailored
to their area. The mixes are designed to have overlapping
bloom periods throughout the growing season.
" Some of my favorite participants have been almond
growers, " Sanderson said. " At the end of the day, farmers and
conservationists are both stewards of the land, and there's so
much space for collaboration. "
To participate in the program, growers must dedicate
a minimum of 1/4-acre of land to pollinator habitat,
but this amount can be separated into different patches
on one property and can be in marginal, otherwise
unused areas. Growers are responsible for completing
site preparation and paying any associated site-prep
costs. MJV staff will be available to help with technical
assistance, answer any questions regarding the pollinator
habitat and direct landowners to other programs that
provide additional support.
" Good site prep means a better experience with the habitat
when it goes in, " Sanderson said.
The program is currently conducting open enrollment,
and growers who are interested are encouraged to review
the eligibility expectations on the website and submit an
interest form.
Among the expectations listed on the site are:
* Being willing to do site-prep work and manage the
pollinator habitat site.
* Having a plan for consistent irrigation.
* Having a plan to mitigate pesticide exposure for the
pollinator habitat site.
* Staying in regular communication with MJV staff during
the first year of the project.
* Reporting annually on the progress and status of the
habitat.
* Willing to maintain the site as pollinator habitat for a
minimum of 3 to 5 years.
* Willing to consider hosting a habitat demonstration day
to showcase their pollinator-friendly practices for other
growers (optional).
Interest forms will be reviewed on a rolling basis, while
funding lasts, with prioritization given to interest received
before May 1. After receiving an interest form, program staff
will conduct interviews with interested growers to determine
if they meet the minimum requirements.
Submit an interest form and learn more about the
Monarchs and More Western Habitat Program at www.
monarchjointventure.org or bit.ly/WesternHabitat.
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NATIONALNUTGROWER.COM 21
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March/April 2023

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of March/April 2023
