ISU Extension to Host Pollinator Program at Calkins Nature Center

Event to focus on attracting native pollinators to home landscapes

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Hardin County, in partnership with Iowa Falls Trees Forever, is hosting an educational program on planting pollinators in the home landscape. The class, titled 'Solitary Pollinators and More,' will be held on March 11 at 6 p.m. at Calkins Nature Center in Iowa Falls.

Why it matters

Pollinators play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting agricultural productivity. This program aims to educate the public on how to create pollinator-friendly habitats in their own backyards, which can have a positive impact on local biodiversity.

The details

The session will be led by Sheila Sartorius, a Master Gardener with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Black Hawk County. Sartorius will provide information on identifying native pollinators, attracting them to home landscapes, and creating nesting areas using native plants.

  • The program will be held on March 11, 2026 at 6 p.m.

The players

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Hardin County

A local extension office that provides educational programs and resources to the community.

Iowa Falls Trees Forever

A local non-profit organization that works to promote tree planting and environmental stewardship in the Iowa Falls area.

Sheila Sartorius

A Master Gardener with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Black Hawk County, with extensive experience in horticulture education.

Calkins Nature Center

A nature center located in Iowa Falls, Iowa, that serves as the venue for the pollinator program.

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What’s next

The program is open to the public and will count for two hours of Master Gardener continuing education credit.

The takeaway

This event provides an opportunity for community members to learn how to create pollinator-friendly habitats in their own backyards, which can have a positive impact on local biodiversity and support the important role of pollinators in maintaining healthy ecosystems.