A Project Connecting Community, Native Plants, & Soil Health

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​​​​​​​Michigan’s native grasslands are important because they help local wildlife, keep our soil healthy, protect our waterways, and make the environment more resilient. Many community leaders and members have invested land, time, and resources into revitalizing native plants throughout the Kalamazoo area. This research project aims to highlight that work by exploring the potential benefits of replacing traditional lawns with native Michigan grassland species, and how this can lead to more sustainable urban development. Our specific goals are to understand how native grassland plant installations can be leveraged to 1) influence soil health, 2) improve native biodiversity, and 3) create conservation corridors within the City of Kalamazoo. ​​​​​

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To accomplish this project, WE NEED YOU! In Summer-Fall 2025, we will gather information through property visits that include measuring the area of your native plant installation, a short interview, and minimal soil sampling in your lawn and native installation. We will use these data to create maps and soil health reports comparing traditional lawns to native grassland installations in the City of Kalamazoo. If you have cultivated an area for native grassland species (i.e. grasses, wildflowers, forbs, shrubs and sedges) that are indigenous to Michigan on your property, your participation in this project will help us understand Kalamazoo residents’ thoughts and motivations for converting part of your privately owned property into a native habitat. You will also help us understand the most common practices used to care for native plant installations and how these practices contribute to soil health.  ​  ​

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