If you’ve stumbled upon this site, welcome! Please understand that this page and the material provided are under construction, so stay tuned! Native trees and plants help us conserve water, as they are drought resistant. They also require little or no pesticides and fertilizers, helping keep our water supply clean and healthy. Worried about invasive species? You won’t be if you use native trees and plants! In addition, native trees and plants are beneficial to native wildlife, including the critically important pollinators. Let’s help out the birds, the bees, and the butterflies and go native! It’s easy to go native and the results are absolutely beautiful!
The framed certificate homeowners will get for participating.
And the homeowners will get a plush pollinator bee!
An abstract has been submitted to the Natural Areas Conference in Ashville in October to present the results of this pilot program!
Title – Native Plant Landscaping for Drought Resilience in Underserved Communities
Abstract: Increasing climate variability and intensifying drought conditions highlight the need for practical, community-centered approaches to land stewardship that enhance both ecological resilience and water sustainability. This project explores the use of native plant-based sustainable landscaping as a strategy to restore ecological function and reduce drought vulnerability in low- to moderate-income residential settings. Conducted as part of a National Science Foundation-supported research initiative, this work emphasizes the translation of climate research into applicable, place-based solutions.
In partnership with a local housing nonprofit, a pilot program is being implemented with three low- to moderate-income households to redesign residential landscapes using principles from the Food–Energy–Water (FEW) nexus. The approach prioritizes native and drought-tolerant plant species and water-efficient design practices to reduce irrigation demand while supporting local biodiversity. Site-specific factors, including soil characteristics, topography, and regional precipitation variability, guide each design to ensure ecological appropriateness and long-term sustainability.
This project contributes to habitat restoration at the parcel scale while promoting pollinator support, improved soil structure, and reduced runoff. The pilot also incorporates homeowner engagement and education, fostering long-term stewardship and increasing the likelihood of sustained ecological benefits.
This work demonstrates how small-scale, residential interventions can contribute to broader conservation and restoration goals. By integrating scientific research with community partnerships, the project offers a scalable model for enhancing drought resilience, supporting biodiversity, and advancing equitable access to sustainable land management practices.
Presentation Description: This presentation highlights a pilot project using native plant-based landscaping to improve drought resilience and restore ecological function in low- to moderate-income residential settings. Attendees will learn how food, energy, and water (FEW) nexus principles guide water-efficient designs that support biodiversity and advance practical land stewardship.
Please stay tuned for more updates on this site! Thank you!