Commission approves partnership to distribute pollinator plant kits

The De Pere Sustainability Commission voted Jan. 13 to partner with the botanical garden, the Conservation Corps and the city of Green Bay to distribute pollinator plant kits to residents.

The commission approved a motion by Commissioner Panic, seconded by Commissioner Lton, authorizing the partnership and a $500 payment to Green Bay to administer signups and pickup logistics. The plan calls for 750 plants to be provided by the botanical garden, which would be assembled into roughly 50 kits of about 15 plants each for public distribution.

Commissioners said Green Bay would host online signups and could run a lottery if demand exceeds supply; organizers discussed the possibility of holding local pickup events if the commission decides not to use Green Bay as the physical host. Commissioners also discussed coordinating outreach materials and plant lists with the botanical garden so the commission can share accurate growing information with recipients.

The proposal grew from meetings between Commissioner Henry Gillis, the Conservation Corps and botanical garden staff, who indicated the garden could give 750 plants and share promotional materials. Green Bay staff offered to manage signups and pickups for an administrative fee of $500, which the commission agreed is within its current budget.

Members said next steps include confirming the plant list and bloom periods, finalizing pickup locations (Green Bay or a local host such as Mulva), and coordinating outreach. Commissioner Panic said she would follow up by email with the partners to iron out details.

The motion passed on a voice vote. The commission will revisit logistical details at a future meeting and record plant bloom periods in the minutes.