Pollinator Palooza Draws Hundreds for Celebration of Native Plants

Mahoning County’s first-ever Pollinator Palooza drew hundreds of attendees for a day of education, environmental awareness, and community fun.

Hosted in partnership with the Mahoning County Land Bank, Mahoning County Soil & Water Conservation District, Rotary Club of Youngstown’s Operation Pollination, and OSU Extension, the May 10 event highlighted the vital role of pollinators and native plants. Visitors explored vendor booths, learned from interactive displays, and took home pollinator-friendly plants to help support a healthier local ecosystem.

The Land Bank played an active role, selling hundreds of native, pollinator-friendly plants to residents eager to support bees, butterflies, and other critical species.

“There was so much interest in our native plant offerings we couldn’t even leave the tent—we had a constant line!” said Gary Davenport, project coordinator for the Land Bank and leader of its native plant project. “Thanks to our partners planning and hosting this festival, it is clear there is real demand for live native plants among Mahoning County residents.”

With oversight of numerous vacant lots across the region, the Land Bank has embraced the use of native vegetation to revitalize land while promoting pollinator activity.

The event was made possible through the support of community partners and sponsors, including Ellsworth Lavender Farm and Sunstone Garden LLC, whose contributions helped bring the vision to life. Volunteers and silent auction donors also played a crucial role, with all proceeds directly supporting local environmental education programs.

Here are some photos from the event (click any image to get a larger one).