MSU Transforms Lawns Into Pollinator Sanctuaries

Michigan State University swaps 30 acres of turf for native plant gardens to support bees and butterflies.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:22am

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A highly structured abstract painting in soft, earthy tones of green, yellow, and blue, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circular patterns, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex and interconnected ecosystem of a pollinator sanctuary.An artistic rendering of the vibrant, interconnected ecosystem of a pollinator-friendly campus landscape, where native plants and beneficial insects thrive in harmony.East Lansing Today

Michigan State University in East Lansing is converting 30 acres of manicured lawns into vibrant pollinator sanctuaries, replacing traditional turf with native plants that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. This eco-friendly initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Entomology and the university's groundskeeping team, aims to reduce maintenance costs while creating thriving habitats for pollinators essential to the ecosystem.

Why it matters

This project aligns with growing efforts to combat biodiversity loss and climate change, demonstrating how universities can lead the way in sustainable landscaping. By prioritizing pollinator-friendly native plants over traditional lawns, MSU is setting an example that could inspire similar initiatives in communities across the country, with potential benefits ranging from improved food security to rethinking the role of public green spaces.

The details

MSU is opting for pollinator-friendly designs like lush gardens, wild meadows, and clover fields, planting native species and letting nature take over in select areas. This not only reduces maintenance costs but also cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions from lawnmowers. The initiative has already transformed 22 acres, with plans to seed an additional 16 acres and plant 8 new acres of clover in campus solar lots.

  • In April 2026, MSU began converting 30 acres of manicured lawns into pollinator sanctuaries.
  • By the end of 2026, MSU plans to have seeded an additional 16 acres for the original meadow project and planted 8 new acres of clover in the campus solar lots.

The players

Michigan State University

A public research university located in East Lansing, Michigan, that is leading the initiative to transform its grounds into pollinator-friendly habitats.

Department of Entomology

The academic department at MSU that is collaborating with the university's groundskeeping team on the pollinator sanctuary project.

Joshua Ridner

The landscape services coordinator at MSU who explains the practical and economic benefits of converting former turf areas into meadows.

Meghan Milbrath

An MSU entomology professor who specializes in apiculture (beekeeping) and is excited about the initiative's potential to prove that pollinator plantings can be more economical than traditional lawn care.

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What they’re saying

“Converting former turf areas into meadows was a practical choice. After the upfront costs for seeds and plants, upkeep drops way down each year.”

— Joshua Ridner, Landscape Services Coordinator, Michigan State University

“This initiative is thrilling because it proves pollinator plantings can be more economical than endless lawn care.”

— Meghan Milbrath, Entomology Professor, Michigan State University

What’s next

MSU plans to seed an additional 16 acres for the original meadow project and plant 8 new acres of clover in the campus solar lots by the end of 2026.

The takeaway

MSU's innovative approach to landscaping demonstrates how universities can lead the way in sustainable practices that benefit the environment and the budget. This model could inspire similar initiatives in communities across the country, potentially transforming public spaces and rethinking the role of traditional lawns.