The Minot Park District and Roosevelt Park Zoo invite the community to take part in “Pollinators at Play, Neighbors for Nature,” a two-part environmental education and restoration initiative made possible through a prestigious $5,000 Association of Zoos and Aquariums Party for the Planet grant.

According to Minot Park District information, the grant supports community-driven conservation efforts that inspire volunteerism and meaningful action to protect wildlife and natural habitats.

Through this funding, the park district and zoo will host hands-on opportunities focused on pollinator conservation, prairie restoration and monarch butterfly education.

The events include:

— Native Plant Restoration & Invasive Species Removal, on Friday, May 16, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Minot Family Outdoor Recreation Area, 4620 10th Ave. NW.

Community members, local schools, Master Gardeners and Minot Park District Horticulture and Forestry staff will work together to remove invasive plant species and restore native prairie habitat with pollinator-friendly plants, including milkweed. The restoration efforts will help support monarch butterflies, native pollinators and local songbird populations within one of North Dakota’s remaining long grass prairie areas.

— Butterfly Education Day on Friday, June 6, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Roosevelt Park Zoo.

Guests are invited to the zoo to learn about monarch butterflies, their role in the environment, and the importance of protecting native habitats from invasive species. The event will feature educational activities, monarch-themed fun and opportunities to explore the zoo while learning how small actions can make a big impact on conservation. Participants of all ages and abilities are encouraged to attend and take part in this hands-on conservation experience.