HARRISBURG – The PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources or DCNR hosted some environmental educators, non-profit leaders, and students at the State Capitol in Harrisburg to raise awareness about the critical role native plants play in protecting PA’s ecosystems. The event spotlighted how native plants – those naturally occurring in the region – are essential to the health of PA’s wildlife, watersheds, and forests. State Forester Seth Cassell said native plants are essential to the state’s ecological health, wildlife, and even public well-being. Planting native plants while removing invasive plants can have a big impact in maintaining our ecosystems and protecting the resources we rely on. Native plants are specially adapted to PA’s climate, soils, and seasonal patterns. Unlike non-native or invasive species, native plants require fewer fertilizers and pesticides, provide habitat for 480 species of birds and mammals, and support pollinators that drive food production. The event served as a call to action and a celebration of the movement to reclaim landscapes using native species. You can find out more about native plants in PA by clicking on the picture below.
