Riviera's Native Pollinator Garden Initiative

What began as a small beautification project outside our Foley office has grown into a meaningful partnership, a commitment to environmental stewardship, and an opportunity to support regional research.

Riviera Utilities is proud to support native pollinator habitats in Baldwin County. In 2023, we broke ground on what would become the Riviera Utilities Native Pollinator Garden (RUNPG), now a registered Monarch Waystation and part of the Alabama Native Milkweed Project.

Growing with Purpose

The idea for the garden began in 2022 after learning about utility companies across the nation using right-of-way land for environmental initiatives. After our first planting of tropical milkweed, we quickly saw potential for deeper impact.

Soon after, we connected with Carmen Flaminni, Baldwin County’s Alabama Cooperative Extension Agent, who leads regional efforts for the Alabama Native Milkweed Project. Together with Carmen and the Baldwin County Master Gardeners, our team continues to help introduce more native milkweed species to the community, supporting monarch butterfly habitats and local pollinator populations.

Q&A: Learn More About the Native Pollinator Garden

Q: Why did Riviera Utilities plant a pollinator garden?
A: We believe in being responsible stewards of the environment. The garden started as a beautification effort but quickly evolved into a way to contribute to research, education, and habitat restoration for monarch butterflies and other pollinators.

Q: What makes this garden special?
A: Our garden is a certified Monarch Waystation and part of the Alabama Native Milkweed Project, a research initiative focused on increasing native milkweed populations and tracking monarchs along the Gulf Coast.

Q: Why is native milkweed important?
A: Unlike non-native species, native milkweed supports the natural migration patterns of monarch butterflies without causing them to stay past safe temperatures. This helps protect their life cycle and prevents disruption during colder months.

Q: How is Riviera involved with the community through this project?
A: We work closely with partners like the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and the Baldwin County Master Gardeners to distribute native milkweed seeds, educate the public, and promote sustainable gardening practices.

Q: Can I visit the garden or get involved?
A: Yes! Our pollinator garden is located at our Foley office and is open to the public. Riviera Utilities also participates in local events like Foley’s Arbor Day, where we distribute free native seed packets. Follow us on social media for future opportunities.

At Riviera Utilities, we believe in growing more than infrastructure - we grow community partnerships and shared responsibility for the natural world. As this project continues to flourish, we remain committed to empowering others to take simple, sustainable actions that make a lasting difference.