Across the country, Wild Ones chapters are bringing native plants into public view through media coverage that connects local action to broader environmental impact. From legislative testimony and conservation designations to broadcast interviews and community programming, chapters are expanding awareness of native plants and their role in building resilient ecosystems.
A round-up of February–April 2026 media coverage highlights how chapters are shaping conversations, influencing policy, and helping communities adopt more sustainable, habitat-friendly practices.
Advocacy: Elevating native plants in policy conversations
Members of the Chesapeake Bay (Maryland) Chapter brought native plant advocacy directly to policymakers through testimony before both chambers of the Maryland General Assembly during the 2026 legislative session, speaking in support of bills to permanently establish Maryland Native Plant Month. Chapter President Marlene Smith and Wild Ones Honorary Director Esther Bonney provided oral testimony during the House committee hearing (HB 127, testimony at 2:27:28 and 2:29:54) and the Senate committee hearing (SB 229, testimony at 30:23).
While these efforts did not advance out of committee, they contributed to growing statewide awareness of the ecological importance of native plants and helped sustain momentum for long-term recognition. Maryland continues to observe Native Plant Month through annual executive proclamations, with May 2026 officially designated to highlight the role of native plants in supporting biodiversity, ecosystem health, and climate resilience. By increasing visibility and public engagement, these efforts can also encourage greater investment in native plant availability, landscape practices, and local green infrastructure.
Conservation: Community partnerships with lasting impact
The Delmarva (Maryland) Chapter was featured as a partner in the announcement that Denton Becomes Caroline County’s First Bird City Maryland Community, recognizing a collaborative effort to improve habitat, reduce threats to birds, and expand public education.
Similarly, the Keweenaw (Michigan) Chapter was highlighted in coverage of City of Houghton receives first-ever Bird City designation in the UP. In support of this effort, the chapter launched a native garden initiative inviting residents to apply for a chance to receive a free garden—providing plants, guidance, and ongoing support to expand bird habitat at the community level.
These designations reflect more than conservation efforts alone; they also highlight the growing role of bird-friendly communities in supporting outdoor recreation, tourism, and local investment in native plants and sustainable landscape practices.
In Illinois, the Rock River Valley (Illinois) Chapter contributed to local conservation dialogue through programs such as Saving the Pieces: Relocating Plants from Bell Bowl Prairie (page 11), connecting audiences to the realities of habitat loss, restoration, and long-term stewardship.
Education: Practical guidance and regional expertise
Media coverage continues to highlight how chapters make native plant knowledge usable and relevant. The Rock River Valley Chapter was featured in Rockford-area residents learn how to start native plant gardens, a televised segment showcasing a hands-on workshop where participants learned how to plan and establish native landscapes.
The Greater Cleveland (Ohio) Chapter was featured in Native Ohio gardening library provides residents free seeds, highlighting its partnerships with regional seed libraries and its series of winter sowing workshops. By helping residents access locally adapted seeds and learn how to successfully start native plants from seed, the chapter is expanding access to native plants while building confidence and skills among new gardeners.
The South Bend (Indiana) Chapter brought native plant education to television audiences through a new book on Michiana’s local native plants, highlighting the chapter-produced guide Native Plants for Michiana: Planting with Nature and Beauty in Mind. The book offers practical, regionally tailored guidance for creating native landscapes that support pollinators and biodiversity.
Media voice: Sharing expertise with broader audiences
Chapters are increasingly recognized as trusted voices in regional media. The Delmarva Chapter was featured on NPR’s Enlighten Me: Spring gardening with balance and intention; Chapter President Concetta Gibson shared practical, field-tested guidance on adapting gardening practices to support biodiversity and respond to changing climate conditions.
Youth leadership is also gaining visibility. The Chesapeake Bay Chapter was referenced in a Future Female Scholars feature interview with Nurture Natives founder Esther Bonney, highlighting the role of emerging leaders in advancing environmental advocacy and native plant education.
These interviews reflect how chapters are helping translate ecological principles into actionable steps for homeowners and communities.
Community engagement: Events that build momentum
Events and partnerships continue to generate local visibility and engagement. The Delmarva Chapter collaborated with the Inland Bays Garden Center to promote Grow Wild, Grow Native event set for March 28, bringing together gardeners, conservation partners, and community members to explore meadow restoration, habitat creation, and pollinator-friendly landscaping.
Through coordinated outreach and media engagement, these events demonstrate how small, accessible actions can lead to meaningful ecological benefits.
A growing national pattern
Together, this coverage shows how chapters are increasing not just awareness, but participation—connecting more people to native plants through accessible programs, partnerships, and media visibility. From seed libraries and workshops to policy engagement and conservation initiatives, these efforts are helping communities move from interest to action, with native plants taking root in more landscapes and conversations nationwide.
Want to get involved?
Find a chapter near you, attend an event, or start small at home with regionally native plants. If you are already part of a chapter, continue building connections, share what you’re learning, and make your work visible. It helps neighbors discover what’s possible and helps communities see native landscaping as the norm.
Have a media story to share?
Submit coverage links and details through the Wild Ones media coverage form:
https://members.wildones.org/media-coverage/