Pollinator Garden Project

Friends of Camas and the Idaho Master Naturalists are cooperating on establishing a garden especially for hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, moths and other pollinator species.  The garden is adjacent to the headquarters building, and will include arid, mesic, and wetland habitats, plus at least one water feature.  Landscaping for the arid section began in August, 2015.  Other habitats will follow in 2016.  

Camas Garden Update 2.17.18

The pollinator garden at the office of the Camas National Wildlife Refuge is a pollinator demonstration garden. Pollinator plants that attract birds, butterflies and native bees are being planted in three water usage areas: wetland, mesic (somewhat drier), and arid.  It is a slow process because we buy plants as money permits and depend on the generosity of volunteers for the labor. 

The garden is progressing quite nicely.  A walk-thru last fall would have shown you many improvements that were made in 2017.  A black-topped (ADA approved) walkway leads from the parking lot to the site of the future gazebo.  A rock path leads from the gazebo area to the west end of the garden.  A water feature is in place.  Raised beds for milkweed (essential for monarch butterflies) are in place and planted with several species.  Many pollinator-attracting plants have been planted in their designated areas.

Over 400 hours have gone into the project so far –with over 270 volunteer hours from Friends of Camas members and Master Naturalists and others.  The payoff is seeing the hummingbirds and listening to the drone of the bees in the flowers.  It will continue to improve as the trees and shrubs mature for food and cover and more plants are installed.  Come and visit (and help) in 2018!