By Scout Nelson
Native plants are vital for healthy ecosystems, offering essential benefits to wildlife and pollinators. Due to human activity and invasive species, many native plants have disappeared. South Dakota State University leads a collaborative effort to restore these species through the Northern Great Plains Native Seed Partnership, which aims to expand the availability of locally grown seeds.
“We want our cropland to perform as well as it can,” Perkins said. “So, we should also want our non-crop land to perform as well as it can too. Native plants on the landscape are how it can do that.”
The demand for native grasses and wildflowers has grown, yet limited seed supplies create obstacles. A recent report emphasized the need for better seed production and distribution in this region. By forming the Northern Great Plains Native Seed Partnership, SDSU and various federal and state agencies, along with conservation groups, work together to overcome these challenges.
To guide progress, experts produced “The Northern Great Plains Native Seed Strategy.” It outlines six goals: identifying knowledge gaps and production needs, conducting research to improve stewardship, ensuring reliable access to suitable seeds, developing decision-support tools, enhancing internal communication, and increasing public awareness about native plants and seeds.
“This strategy aims to provide all stakeholders with information and tools to build a robust and resilient native seed system,” Perkins said.
SDSU’s Native Plant Initiative plans to be the central research resource for implementing these goals. Investigations will focus on which native plants seed collectors and growers value most. Scientists also study methods to boost field performance of local species.
“Native seeds operate on a different timeline than traditional crops,” Perkins said. “Our challenge is understanding these complexities.”
By improving knowledge, communication, and production capabilities, the Northern Great Plains Native Seed Partnership hopes to secure vibrant habitats for pollinators and wildlife. Increased native plant use also supports soil health and land productivity in non-crop areas. This ongoing collaboration is a key step toward restoring ecological balance and maintaining sustainable landscapes across the Northern Great Plains region.
Photo Credits:south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Crops