Volunteers around the country are saving native plants-species that occur naturally in a particular region, state, or ecosystem-in areas slated to be logged or bulldozed for new development. They dig up wildflowers, ferns, trees, and cacti (some of which are rare and endangered) and relocate them to nature preserves, parks, botanical gardens, and schools. Native plants adapt over millions of years to local conditions, so they are hardier than nonnatives and provide crucial food and shelter for wildlife. Twenty percent of America's native plant species are in decline, however, due to loss of habitat. To volunteer, contact your local native-plant society. Go to centerforplantconservation.org and click on "Plant Links" for a list of organizations by state.
Source: Organic Gardening
