MADISON – June 13, 2023 – The Dane County Land & Water Resources Department is currently accepting applications from schools and community groups in Dane County looking to install or expand native plant gardens.
The Free Native Plants for Schools and Community Projects program provides a source of free native plants to help improve water quality and habitat. The deep root systems of native plants help decrease soil compaction and infiltrate water back into the ground, reducing stormwater runoff and protecting nearby water bodies. Native plants are also more drought tolerant and disease resistant, and provide important food and habitat to wildlife and pollinators.
“Native plants enhance pollinator habitats and can improve water quality,” said Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. “By participating in this program, schools and community groups can help preserve our natural resources and raise awareness about the environmental benefits of native plants.”
Since the program began in 2016, more than 31,500 plants have been distributed to over 160 different groups, including schools, neighborhood associations and community centers. These plants will be available in spring and summer each year. Spring plants are donated from community members through the Plant Dane! native plant program and summer plants are grown by local volunteers. Applications are due by July 21.
For more information about the program or to download the application, visit:
