There are four major benefits of renaturalization:

 

1.Native plants are hardy. They have evolved over hundreds of years to thrive in the soil conditions and in the weather of this area. Therefore, they do not need to be watered, fertilized or maintained on an ongoing basis. Evergreen says about 80% of what is planted will survive.

 

2. Native plants provide food and shelter to native wildlife. Given the amount of land that is being developed, it’s essential to replant urban parks and even backyards, with as many native species as possible if we want to maintain viable populations of native wildlife. For instance, in Ontario there are 68 birds species that are in decline; five species of birds in the Oakville area are considered vulnerable; one species, the Acadian Flycatcher is considered endangered. The Monarch butterfly population is also in serious decline. Why? The fields and meadows that grow Golden Rod*, which feeds the butterflies and Milkweed, which feeds the caterpillars, are being paved over. Native plants in parks and backyards are essential to some species survival in our increasingly urbanized world.

 

3. Renaturalized areas provide an opportunity to learn about the natural heritage of our area. They provide enhanced opportunities for education and recreation for children and adults alike.

 

4. Native plants beautify our community, clean our air and provide a balm for our souls. Naturalized landscapes provide a place of solace from our often too ordered worlds. They remind us of our place in the living world and the glory of nature. 

 

 * Golden Rod is not an allergen. Ragweed is.