Plant Iowa Natives

About Plant Iowa Natives

In March of 2009 the staff of Iowa Crop Improvement Association and the Tallgrass Prairie Center met to discuss the possibility of launching a Plant Iowa Natives campaign in the state. The discussion centered on the possibility of building on the state’s current resources of educators, growers, botanists, etc. in such a way to expand the knowledge and use of native Iowa seed and plant materials in the state.

Subsequently in May of 2009 a group of individuals and companies with an appreciation for the native grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees which once populated much of Iowa met to discuss a promotional effort to grow native Iowa plant materials. After further assistance from the UNI Regional Business Center it was decided to pursue a statewide Plant Iowa Natives campaign with a focus in 3 areas:

Image – improve education and awareness of native species

Sales – improve linkages between buyers and sellers

Environment – improve water quality and wildlife habitat

From this initial meeting blossomed a series of meetings to gauge the interest and scope of just such a campaign. Meetings in the summer and fall of 2009 of individuals and companies with an appreciation for the native grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees established a definite interest in the concept. The following mission statement was developed :

To encourage, educate, and create awareness of native plants.

An executive committee of 12 individuals volunteered to serve as the core group for moving this effort forward, the members include: