Bill > K00159

This resolution memorializes Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025 as Native Plant Month in New York State, recognizing the critical ecological importance of native plant species. The resolution highlights that native plants are indigenous species naturally occurring in a specific geographic region, which are essential for healthy ecosystems, providing crucial environmental benefits like cleaning air, filtering water, and stabilizing soils. It emphasizes that New York State is home to approximately 2,000 native plant species and that these plants have evolved unique symbiotic relationships with local wildlife over thousands of years, making them far more beneficial than non-native imported plants. The resolution also notes that some of New York's native plants are federally listed as endangered, and there is a growing movement to protect and educate the public about native plants' significance for pollinators, wildlife, and ecosystem health. By encouraging citizens to engage in activities like planting native trees and flowers, removing invasive species, and creating pollinator gardens, the resolution aims to raise awareness about native plants' importance to New York's biological heritage and support conservation efforts for present and future generations.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/K159