Pollinator Pathway

Welcome to the Manchester Pollinator Pathway!  

Our town is proud to join communities across Connecticut committed to creating safe, healthy habitat for birds, bees, butterflies, and the many insects that keep our ecosystems thriving. The Manchester effort is a collaboration between dedicated residents, the Manchester Historical Society, the UConn Master Gardener Program, the Manchester Garden Club, and local volunteers who believe that vibrant pollinator habitat can—and should—be a visible part of our shared landscape.  

Our Mission  

The Manchester Pollinator Pathway works to restore, connect, and expand pesticide-free corridors of native plants throughout town. By supporting pollinators, we strengthen biodiversity, soil health, food webs, and the resilience of our natural spaces. Through education, hands-on projects, and community partnerships, we strive to make pollinator-friendly gardening accessible to everyone—from homeowners and schools to local businesses and public land stewards.  

Our Current Projects  

Woodbridge Farmstead Pollinator Garden In partnership with the Manchester Historical Society and UConn Master Gardeners, we are designing and installing a new demonstration garden on the historic Woodbridge Farmstead grounds. This space will showcase native plantings, gardening techniques, and seasonal educational programs.  

Laurel Marsh Pollinator Meadow 

Established in 2021, our pollinator meadow at Laurel Marsh is maintained by Master Gardener volunteers. It provides essential habitat for native bees, butterflies, moths, birds, and other wildlife.  

Monarch & Bird Waystation 

The Monarch & Bird Waystation Established in 2016 along the East end of Center Springs Park, this naturalized garden provides essential habitat for both pollinators and songbirds. Planted with milkweed and a variety of nectar-rich native species, the garden sustains migrating monarch butterflies and native bees while offering food, cover, and nesting resources for local bird populations.  

Thanks to a grant from the Audubon Society, the garden was enhanced to ensure it supports songbirds as well as pollinators—creating a vibrant ecosystem where butterflies, bees, and birds thrive side by side. The site also serves as an outdoor classroom for community members and students to learn about the importance of native plants and biodiversity in urban spaces.  

How You Can Help  

Everyone can contribute—whether you have a backyard, a balcony, a school garden, or simply a desire to take small steps that benefit your community and the planet.  

Take Action at Home 

* Plant a Pollinator Patch – Even a small area of native plants helps. 

* Plant Natives from Seed – Affordable and genetically diverse. 

* Leave the Leaves – Protect overwintering insects and enrich soil. 

* Reduce Your Lawn – Replace turf with habitat. 

* Skip the Pesticides – They harm far more than pests.  

Get Involved in the Community 

* Join our mailing list to stay updated on workshops and volunteer opportunities. 

* Volunteer in public pollinator gardens and meadow maintenance days. 

* Advocate for pollinator-friendly practices in your neighborhood or organization. 

* Teach or Learn – Attend our learnshops, mentor a new gardener, or help lead programs at community events. 

* Spread the Word – Share what you learn with friends, family, and local groups.  

Join the Pathway  Be part of a growing movement that connects yards, parks, schools, farms, and public spaces into a thriving corridor for pollinators. Every garden—large or small—helps build Manchester’s living pathway.  

Together, we can create a healthier, more resilient 

Manchester for pollinators and people alike.