Planting native plants is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and preserving biodiversity. Natives provide essential habitat and food for native insects, birds, and other wildlife, which in turn support the entire food chain. Additionally, native plants require less maintenance, pesticides, and fertilizers than non-native plants, making them more sustainable and cost-effective in the long run. They also help reduce pollutants from entering our waterways. By planting native plants, individuals can help restore natural habitats and promote a healthy and diverse environment for future generations to enjoy. FOLKS encourages residents to plant natives to help promote healthy ecosystems and lake area habitats.

 

FOLKS held workshops with speakers from Dane County on using Wisconsin native plants in residential run-off reduction projects.

​

The first workshop centered around the benefits of long-rooted native plants in shoreline and rain gardens to reduce storm water run-off which contains phosphorus. Participants received information, resources, and a number of native plants.

​

The second workshop included techniques for overwintering seeds and growing native plants from seed in small greenhouses. Members who attended the workshop received 21 species of native plants seeds for use at their homes.

​