Native Plants for Native Pollinators: Restoration Projects

Are you restoring habitat for native pollinators? 

The Native Plants for Native Pollinators (NP²) program provides regionally appropriate native plants and ecological guidance to support restoration projects that enhance biodiversity, strengthen habitat connectivity, and improve ecosystem resilience across the West Kootenay region.

NP² builds on the success of the 2025 pilot program, Milkweed for Restoration, and expands its focus to a broader suite of native pollinators—particularly specialist bees and the Western Bumble Bee. The 2026 theme, Pollination Partners: Specialist Bees & Western Bumble Bee Edition, reflects this expanded ecological focus.

KNPS will award free plants for restoration, based on project eligibility. To begin the process of getting plants, please read the application guidelines (listed below) and fill out the Native Plant Request form (opening soon).

We welcome applications from:

• Conservation organizations and land trusts
• Indigenous Nations and community land stewards
• Farmers, ranchers, and land managers with restoration goals
• Local governments and restoration professionals

To be eligible, your project must:

• Be at least 0.25 hectares (~0.6 acres) in size
• Be part of a restoration or naturalized landscape (not gardens or schoolyards)
• Demonstrate habitat suitability for bee associated plants (well-drained soils, appropriate sun exposure, etc.)
• Commit to long-term habitat protection and stewardship (“in perpetuity”)
• Avoid the use of systemic insecticides and herbicides

*All applications will be reviewed to assess site conditions and compatibility.

Timeline and Process:

• Apply ahead for future plantings: Native Plant Request Form submissions open in July 2026
• Applications reviewed for successful applicants: July to August
• Native plants distributed for planting: September to October