Left to right- Julie DeSutter Midwest Central Science Teacher, Edie Sternberg INPS Grants Chairperson and Trish Quintenz INPS Chapter President.

Midwest Central receives grant from Illinois Native Plant Society

[March 18, 2016]  MASON CITY - Midwest Central High School is among four organizations recently awarded project funding from the Central Chapter of the Illinois Native Plant Society (INPS) as part of a competitive application process.

The two year project, “Restoring the Pollinator Prairies of Illinois”, will be overseen by teacher Julie DeSutter. The $5000 award will build on previous native plant-related projects at Midwest Central High School.

Midwest Central will be planting nearly 2 acres of unproductive district property in Native Pollinator Prairie grass. The goal of the project is to eliminate invasive trees and plant species, control erosion, reduce mowing, and provide habitat for wildlife. Taking part in the project as an additional partner is the local chapter of Pheasants Forever. The Mason County Chapter of Pheasants Forever is donating additional time, resources, and $1500 to help cover project costs.

The Illinois Native Plant Society is a volunteer organization dedicated to promoting the study, appreciation and conservation of native plants and natural communities in Illinois. Over the past 15 years, the Central Chapter’s fund raising efforts have allowed it to award almost $50,000 in grants to support a variety of native plant-related projects.

Representatives of the Central Chapter met recently with school district superintendent, Todd Hellrigel, and teacher, Julie DeSutter project coordinator, to view other ongoing projects at the school and to present the first grant payment. When asked about the project Mrs. DeSutter said she was excited about this project because it has brought community organizations together with the district to promote environmentally sound practices that can be used for educational purposes.

[Todd Hellrigel]