Oklahomans are turning their yards into wildlife habitats through new grant program

Monarchs migrating through central Oklahoma this fall may have more food and shelter to choose from than last year.

A new grant program facilitated by the Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts and the Oklahoma Monarch Society resulted in nearly 762,000 square feet of wildlife habitat, the organizations said in a news release .

The projects sprouted up in yards, farms, parks and apartment courtyards. Recipients were reimbursed up to $525 for each 100 square feet of native habitat planted. Gardens were required to avoid herbicides, pesticides and fungicides.

Gardeners reported more wildlife visitors and community interactions, according to the organizations. Hummingbirds, toads, frogs, butterflies and other Oklahoma inhabitants found refuge in the foliage.

Development