HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRO-2026-016- Native Plant Month Proclamation 190 , Zaco eC) Ko f ' s� Pf 4 /7bco
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
NATIVE PLANT MONTH 2O26
WHEREAS , numerous indigenous plants occur in Orange County and have evolved and adapted
over many years in the county ' s ecosystems and habitats ; and
WHEREAS , native plants are vital to maintain and restore a healthy ecosystem which sustains
our environment , including but not limited to : seed dispersal , pollination of crops and natural
vegetation , prevention of flooding , erosion and drought , regulation of disease -carrying organisms ,
and moderation of weather extremes ; and
WHEREAS , native plants provide shelter, nectar , pollen and seeds to ensure that butterflies ,
insects , birds , amphibians and other wildlife thrive ; and
WHEREAS , it is estimated that there are more than 17 , 000 native plant species in the United
States ; and
WHEREAS , North Carolina is home to more than 3 , 900 native plant species , including trees ,
shrubs , vines , grasses , and wildflowers , making it one of the most diverse states for native plants
in the southeast , with 969 of these species have been designated as significantly rare , in decline
and /or may be in danger of extinction , and 94 of the 969 imperiled plants have been found in
Orange County ; and
WHEREAS , invasive species negatively contribute to habitat degradation and loss , extreme
weather events , and the decline of native plants in the United States ; and
WHEREAS , native plants are essential components of resilient ecosystems and our natural
heritage ;
NOW, THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners hereby
designates April 2026 as " Native Plant Month " in Orange County and recognizes the benefits of
native plants to the environment and economy of Orange County , the State of North Carolina and
the United States .
This , the 7t" Day of April , 2026 .
can Hamilton , Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
AT ST :
Laura Je se
Clerk to the Board of Commissioners 17 5z