Planting for Pollinators: A Conservation Effort at Heartland Farms

Tom Schultz, founding member and farm manager at Heartland Farms, partnered with Pheasants Forever to establish nearly 4 acres of pollinator habitat along the edge of an irrigated field and a nearby creek that branches to the Big Roche-A-Cri creek. The site was planted with 26 native grass and flower species—including milkweed, Big Bluestem, Pale Purple Coneflower, and Compass Plant—using drone technology and landscaping equipment.

These deep-rooted plants help stabilize soil, reduce runoff, and improve water quality, while also supporting pollinators and wildlife. Once fully established, the site will serve as a demonstration plot to showcase the ecological and agricultural benefits of diversifying field edges with native species.