DURHAM, North Carolina – A bill moving through the NC Senate would mean more native plants blooming across the state. Thanks to Senators Bill Rabon, Vickie Sawyer and Michael Lazzara, Senate Bill 391 includes two bird-friendly policies that build on years of advocacy by Audubon chapters and members.
The bill would prohibit mowing on NC DOT rights-of-way during the month of May and require the use of native plants for replanting when vegetation is removed for outdoor advertising. It also mandates the study and development of a list of native plants to be used in place of nonnative species, and a list of/plan to remove invasive species from State parks and highway rights-of-way.
“We appreciate Senator Rabon's continued support for birds and native plants,” said Zach Wallace, policy director at Audubon North Carolina. “These policies come after years of grassroots advocacy and leadership from folks like Chairman Rabon that will culminate in more habitat, food, and resources for birds and healthier environments for people.”
Momentum for native plants in North Carolina is real. Early last year Gov. Roy Cooper announced a new executive order requiring the use of native plants on all landscaping for future state-owned projects, part of a sweeping commitment to protect and restore millions of acres of forest and wetlands.
“Native plants are important because they provide food for birds and other wildlife that adapted to depend on them,” said Wallace. “Insects hosted by native plants are particularly important because most bird species require insects to feed their young. Fewer native plants mean fewer insects, which in turn means fewer bird babies growing to adulthood.”
In North Carolina alone, over 3,900 native plant species support birds and pollinators year-round. No Mow May is one way we can ensure early-season pollinators have the food and habitat they need to help plants reproduce. In turn those plants provide resources for birds so they can feed growing chicks.
The bill was filed in the Senate on March 24 and is currently in the Senate Transportation Committee.
Media Contact: Brittany Salmons, brittany.salmons@audubon.org
About Audubon North Carolina
Audubon North Carolina, a state program of the National Audubon Society, has offices in Durham, Boone, Corolla, and Wilmington. Learn more at nc.audubon.org and on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. A nonprofit conservation organization since 1905, Audubon works throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.
