HARRISBURG, PA — Conservation leaders, environmental educators, and community advocates gathered at the Pennsylvania State Capitol this week to highlight the critical role native plants play in sustaining the state’s ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and strengthening resilience against climate change.
The event, hosted by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), underscored that native plants—species naturally occurring in the region—are vital to the health of wildlife, watersheds, and forests. State Forester Seth Cassell called them “essential to the state’s ecological health, wildlife, and even public well-being,” adding that “these seemingly small actions — planting natives, removing invasives — can have a big impact in maintaining our ecosystems and protecting the resources we rely on.”
Native plants are adapted to Pennsylvania’s climate and soils, requiring fewer chemicals, providing habitat for more than 480 bird and mammal species, and supporting pollinators that sustain food production. In contrast, non-native and invasive species often degrade habitats, increase erosion, and undermine stormwater and climate resilience.
Kelly Sitch, a DCNR forest biologist, stressed the stakes: “When native plants are lost, our ecosystems suffer. Wildlife loses habitat, erosion increases, pollinators decline, and our ability to manage stormwater, flooding, and climate impacts is weakened.”
Speakers, including DCNR Tree Equity Specialist Kalaia Tripeaux, Pennsylvania Native Plant Society Board Member Jill Zdunczyk, and Harrisburg Sustainability Coordinator Madelyn Good, called on individuals, municipalities, and businesses to integrate native planting into daily life. Zdunczyk noted, “Whether you’re tending a backyard garden, teaching a classroom, or greening a balcony, native plants have a place in your life.”
Harrisburg, Good said, is leading by example, using native vegetation in parks and green infrastructure projects to reduce runoff and improve public spaces.
The event also provided resources for identifying native species, finding local nurseries, and engaging in restoration projects. DCNR urged residents to avoid invasive plants, support native growers, and participate in community conservation initiatives.
Earlier this year, the agency unveiled Forests for All, a statewide plan to protect Pennsylvania’s 17 million acres of forests, emphasizing inclusivity, biodiversity, and sustainable use.
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