MDARD Teams Up with Lansing Lugnuts, VFW National Home to Plant Native Garden at Jackson® Field™

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), Lansing Lugnuts, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Home (VFWNH), in collaboration with the Eaton Conservation District, proudly celebrates the successful installation of a native garden at Jackson® Field™.

Veterans participating in the Veteran Regenerative Agriculture Demonstration, an innovative program that engages veterans and volunteers in regenerative and climate-smart agriculture, planted the garden ahead of Military Appreciation Night tonight. The garden features a mix of native perennial species that support pollinators and enhance biodiversity.

“By integrating regenerative principles into a public venue like Jackson® Field™, we’re showing how native plants, soil health, and conservation practices can be both engaging and educational,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “This garden also highlights how the Veteran Regenerative Agriculture Demonstration program serves as a meaningful introduction to agriculture for veterans and others looking to enter the agricultural sector.”

In addition to marking Military Appreciation Night, the garden will be featured during the Conservation Carnival on June 1. A behind-the-scenes video of the planting process, including interviews with participating veterans and partners, will be shown during both pre-game ceremonies and shared through MDARD and Lansing Lugnuts’ digital channels.

“Fans come to Jackson® Field™ for more than baseball—they come for connection,” said Lansing Lugnuts Marketing & Fan Engagement Manager Amanda Rich. “This native garden enhances that experience by blending education, beauty, and a tribute to those who’ve served. We’re honored to have this living symbol of service and sustainability growing right here at our ballpark.”

“Our participating members are excited to have contributed to this project, which brings people and nature together in such a meaningful way,” said a representative from the VFW National Home. “Through hands-on experience and a supportive network, this initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on both its participants, the environment, and our communities.”

The project received support from Bendy Stem Farm and was made possible through funding and in-kind contributions from the Lansing Lugnuts, whose grounds crew also provided tools and on-site planting assistance.

To learn more, view the video from planting day, follow the link!