Native Plant Rebate

Rice County Native Planting

About the rebate program

Providing a wildflower-rich habitat is the most significant action you can take to support pollinators, which in turn supports the entire ecosystem.

Eligibility

The program is available to all property owners in Northfield city limits with a Northfield utility account.

Amount of rebate

The rebate is credited on your utility account.

You can receive a 33% rebate of up to $75 on native plant purchases. Rebate amount will be $25, $50, or $75.

Rebates are given on a first-come, first-serve basis until funding for the fiscal year is exhausted.

A growing trend

Recognizing the importance of conserving Minnesota’s wildlife, thousands of people around the state have started to replace traditional green turf lawns with their own native plant landscaping projects. This is a great opportunity to join in and see what the buzz is about!

Talking with a specialist at a plant nursery or garden center can also help inform your decision.

Things to consider

There are many different types of native plants to select from, so being aware of the following can help you choose the plants best suited for your backyard:

  • How much sun do you get in your backyard?
  • What is the soil like?
  • Are there any low areas that tend to collect water during rains?
  • How much space is available for adding new plants?
  • Can you remove some of your turf grass to make more room?

Why native plants?

Native prairie, woodland, and wetland plants have evolved to thrive in our natural conditions. After a season or two, they usually require less maintenance than a conventional lawn or garden and can help reduce water runoff and erosion.

Native plants generally do not require the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, which saves you money and reduces harm to the environment.

Many native plants are quite beautiful. A patch of them can give your yard or garden a rustic feel, while providing the additional benefit of providing food and shelter for birds and beneficial insects, which include pollinators such as butterflies and bees, but also dragonflies, which eat mosquitoes and other pests.

Benefits

  • Plants thrive in area
  • Less maintenance
  • Reduces water runoff and erosion
  • No need for fertilizers or pesticides
  • Saves money
  • Better for environment
  • Beautiful
  • Attracts pollinators
  • Attracts dragonflies, which eat mosquitoes and other pests

Applying for a rebate

The Native Plant Rebate form is available at City hall and on the City of Northfield website.

  1. Buy plants or seeds on the Native Plant Rebate Approved Seed/Plant List.
  2. Plant your plants or seeds.
  3. Submit your rebate form, receipt and photo.
    or mail in to:
    City of Northfield
    Engineering Department
    801 Washington Street
    Northfield, MN 55057
  4. Look for your rebate on your utility account (all requirements must be met).

Resources

Native plant rebate brochure (PDF)

Native plant rebate approved seed/plant list (PDF)