Improving Pollinator Habitat on McConnell Air Force Base

Historical military-base landscape in Kansas introduced non-native ornamental shrubs and flowers that provide limited benefits to native pollinators and protection against flooding. In response to this, the USFWS partnered with McConnell Air Force Base (AFB) to plant native species and construct a nature-based stormwater management system. The team converted non-native flower beds into orderly patches of native, pollinator-friendly plants. They also constructed a three-meter-wide vegetation buffer along the riparian corridor, and installed bioswales and rain gardens to reduce runoff. The team also educate the public by engaging military families and local schools to volunteer with native plantings and outdoor experiences with native species.