Native Plants

As rain washes over the land, it carries nutrients and chemicals from lawns and other landscapes to storm drains and groundwater. This rainfall eventually drains into streams and rivers. Because plants native to the region require less fertilizer and pesticides, using them reduces the amount of these pollutants that eventually enter our waterways. Therefore, when we use locally native species on our landscapes we make a meaningful contribution to improving water quality in local watersheds and ultimately the Delaware Estuary. Native plant species also significantly improve wildlife habitat. Native wildlife has evolved with native plants. Birds, mammals and other wildlife depend on vegetation for food and shelter, including nesting and other types of breeding sites. Unmowed stretches of grass will not only provide valuable habitat, but also help to filter out pollutants in the stormwater. This pamphlet describes the importance of landscaping with native plants and informs users where they can purchase native plants and seeds.Funding for this fact sheet was provided by U.S. EPA, Region II, in support of the Delaware Estuary Program. Special thanks to U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Natural Lands Trust