Resolution Designates April 2025 'National Native Plant Month', Spotlighting Ecological and Economic Roles

What's the Green Deal?

This resolution officially stamps April 2025 as "National Native Plant Month". Think of it as a national hat-tip to the unsung heroes of our local environments. The core idea is simple: recognize and celebrate the vital role native plants – those species that naturally occur in a region without human introduction – play across the United States.

More Than Just Pretty Weeds

Why dedicate a whole month? The resolution lays it out: the U.S. boasts over 17,000 native plant species, and they're not just background scenery. They're critical infrastructure for healthy ecosystems. They clean the air, filter water, keep soil from washing away, and provide essential food and shelter for local wildlife, from bees to birds to bigger critters. Because they're already adapted to local climates and soils, they're naturally resilient and great tools for conservation.

A Nod to Nature's Importance

This isn't just about appreciating plants; it's also a quiet acknowledgment of the challenges they face. The resolution notes that factors like habitat loss, invasive species crowding them out, and extreme weather have caused the decline of over 200 native plant species since the early 1800s. By designating April 2025, the aim is to boost awareness about both the environmental and economic benefits these plants offer, encouraging folks to potentially think local when it comes to landscaping, conservation, and appreciating the nature in their own backyards.