A vibrant new pollinator garden has taken root near Umatilla Electric Cooperative’s (UEC) Elm Avenue substation in Hermiston — beginning a transformation of an ordinary utility site into a thriving example of environmental stewardship and community care.
Inspired by a 2024 Ruralite article showcasing utility-led conservation efforts across the Northwest, UEC began exploring how a pollinator garden could add value to both the substation site and the surrounding community. The idea gained traction quickly, not just for its environmental benefits, but for the opportunity to demonstrate how utilities can creatively support biodiversity without compromising operational goals.
Pollinator gardens offer real ecological value. By planting species such as day lilies, lavender and butterfly bushes, UEC created essential habitat for pollinators. In Eastern Oregon, where farming, irrigation, and energy delivery are deeply connected, protecting these species helps preserve the balance between people and the land.
“This project reflects the cooperative spirit we value so much,” said Lisa McMeen, Vice President of Administration at UEC. “We saw an opportunity to turn a substation into something that contributes to the local environment, supports agriculture, and sets a positive example for integrating sustainability into utility operations.”
Spanning along the W 10th Street walking path on the western edge of the substation, the garden was designed and installed by a local contractor. It features drought-tolerant plants selected for their ability to thrive in Eastern Oregon’s dry climate with minimal irrigation.
The project aligns with UEC’s broader focus on improving land use, encouraging local partnerships, and showing that even small-scale initiatives can deliver meaningful impact. For UEC, this effort was not just about beautification, it was about initiating a long-term investment in the health of our region’s ecosystems and communities.
The garden also serves as a springboard for future educational opportunities. Plans are underway to incorporate the site into school visits and community conservation events, showcasing how regulated utility spaces can also function as habitats for native wildlife and platforms for learning.
“We hope this inspires other cooperatives and utilities to think outside the fence line,” McMeen added. “There’s real value in these efforts—for our members, our environment, and the industry.”