Let's Grow Native!

Upcoming events & opportunities: 

Landscaping for Clean Water Workshops | Spring 2023

Learn all the steps to design and install your very own raingarden or shoreline restoration. These projects create beautiful landscaping that is environmentally-friendly. 

Burnsville Residents - Register early so you are eligible for up to $1,000 in grant funding! Learn more about the event and how to register.

Environmentally-Friendly Landscaping Grants | due April 30, 2023

Submit an application to receive up to $1,000 to install a raingarden or shoreline restoration. Learn about project eligibility and how to apply.

Native Plant Market | May 20, 2023, 9 a.m. - noon

The City of Burnsville hosts an annual plant market, where all are welcome to browse the selection of native plants from multiple vendors. There will be great options to choose from, like native flowers (both beautiful and attractive to pollintators), grasses and more! Learn more about the event. 

Why native plants? 

Native plants historically grew in this area and are adapted to the local climate and soil types. They are part of the local natural community and provide resources for wildlife. Their deep roots prevent soil erosion, improve soil health, help soil hold more water and filter pollution. Native plants will not take over natural places like woods and prairies, unlike non-native plants such as European Buckthorn and Purple Loosestrife.  

Want to see native plants in the City? Explore the many natural areas throughout Burnsville, and visit the Civic Center Prairie, a large-scale turf to prairie conversion (pictured). 

In the home garden, native plants provide the same environmental benefits, in addition to needing very little care once they establish. They can be found an many local nurseries, and even at the annual City of Burnsville Native Plant Market. 

Civic Center Prairie

Environmentally-friendly landscaping

Natural areas have many environmental benefits, but did you know your yard can make a difference too? 

Projects that benefit pollinators, water quality and wildlife include: 

  • Planting a native garden 
  • Converting turf to prairie (a.k.a. native planting) 
  • Creating a pollinator lawn
  • Installing a rain garden

Visit our resource page to find a project that is right for you, and learn about City ordinances related to certain projects.

Plant for pollinators

bumble bee on bee balm

Landscape for water quality

Shoreline restoration in progress

Provide habitat for birds

Cedar Waxwing