The Native Plant program was started by the National Wildlife Federation, the largest environmental education and advocacy nonprofit in the United States. Their native plant program was created to help wildlife and bring back species that are endangered or threatened in the United States. Wildlife is disappearing at an alarming rate due to climate change and habitat loss. Since 1970, monarch butterfly populations have declined by 90% and an estimated 3 billion birds have disappeared since 1970. Additionally, 40% of native bee species rely on pollen restricted to certain plants, making them highly vulnerable to habitat loss. The goal of this initiative is to have more native plants throughout the United States that provide flowers, pollen, nectar, and other benefits to species in the United States. Planting native plants ensures that declining wildlife populations are protected while also keeping other species abundant.
Although this initiative is more at the national level, it provides many social and environmental benefits at the local level as well. Gardening for native plant species that benefit plant species creates healthy spaces for people and provides relaxing and recreational spaces. Furthermore, converting a lawn to a native plant garden creates spaces for wildlife, reduces the urban heat island effect, reduces storm water runoff, and eliminates the use of toxic chemicals that is normally associated with lawns. The National Wildlife Federation also addresses their impact by working with local growers and vendors to provide the native plants based on where you live. This has the long-term goal of supporting independent farmers across the country by meeting demand and making native plants available throughout the country.
If you are unsure of the native plants in your area or what package you should get, the National Wildlife Federation offers a questionnaire to help you decide what is best for you instead of searching the answers somewhere else. They offer packages depending on how much sun or shade you get and also offer gift cards that can be given to a friend or used another time. This initiative definitely embodies our value of connectivity and our missing to think local and act global. Consider donating or learning more about this initiative by visiting the NWF’s website!
Sources:
https://www.nwf.org/Latest-News/Press-Releases/2020/10-22-20-EJSM-White-Paper