Webinar to discuss pollinator-friendly solar projects in the region

Small Towns
Contact(s)

Teresa Hoffman, policy communications associate, teresah@cfra.org, 402.687.2100 ext. 1012; or Rhea Landholm, brand marketing and communications manager, rheal@cfra.org, 402.687.2100 ext. 1025

LYONS, NEBRASKA – Best management practices for implementing native vegetation on solar project sites in the region will be the topic of a webinar set for April 23.

Cody Smith, policy associate at the Center for Rural Affairs, will host the webinar in conjunction with Rob Davis, director of the Center for Pollinators in Energy at Fresh Energy. It will begin at noon. 

“Solar energy is growing at a rapid pace in the region and as farmers, landowners, and communities look to embrace this clean, affordable source of energy, there is a significant opportunity to invest in our natural resources,” Smith said. “Implementing native vegetation on solar project sites offers crucial habitat for at-risk pollinators like bees and monarch butterflies, while also meeting practical requirements for developers.”

Discussion will outline native seed mix selections for solar sites, management options for site operators and options for communities to require this practical co-use on solar sites. Other topics will include planning, total cost of implementation, seeding methods and construction considerations.

“This webinar aims to serve as a resource for community leaders, project developers, utility professionals, and soil and water conservation experts so they can take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity for mutually-beneficial investments in conservation,” Smith said. 

Visit cfra.org/events to register.