OCEAN CITY, Md. - The Town of Ocean City has opened applications for mini-grants aimed at enhancing the beach district with native plants and promoting the creation of pollinator gardens. Forty grants are available for each category.
Beach district plants, chosen for their resilience against salt air and wind, include hardy species such as beach grass and native dune plants. According to the town, these plants not only stabilize the dunes but also create vital habitats for local wildlife, contributing to the natural development of the coastal ecosystem over time.
Additionally, pollinator gardens serve as a haven for bees, birds, butterflies and other small mammals, promoting biodiversity while also enhancing water quality and controlling erosion. Ocean City's Green Team is actively promoting pollinator gardens as part of its involvement with Sustainable Maryland, a certification program for municipalities in the state that want to go green and become more sustainable.
According to the town, plants purchased through the grant program must be planted within the corporate limits of Ocean City. Residents and property owners can apply online before the deadline, April 12.