Reconnecting to Our Waterways (ROW) invites you to the latest In the Know with ROW: Invasive and Native Plants on Wednesday, April 17 from 5:30 – 7:00 pm to celebrate the launch of our Residential Invasive Removal Guide. Learn all about how plant species affect our waterways and how you can make an impact by taking action in your own backyard.
Sip beverages, munch on snacks, and hear from ROW partner experts, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful and Indiana Wildlife Federation. You’ll come away with valuable knowledge, your very own native plant seed packet, and “how-to” cards to take right into your backyard as you work this Spring.
What’s an invasive species? An invasive species is one that evolved somewhere else in the world and is harmful to the Central Indiana environment. Invasive species can take over from native plants since there are less natural checks on their growth from other plants and animals. Native plants, on the other hand, provide food and other resources for local animal species.
Historically, these harmful plants were seen as exotic and ornamental (though some are still sold in local nurseries!). Now, we know the importance of removing these because of their rapid spread, excessive need for water, and limited ecological contribution to birds and wildlife.
Why plant native species instead? Native species evolved in this region and are adapted to support local plant, animal, and aquatic life forms. Natives also grow deep roots that soak up and filter rainwater of harmful contaminants in the waterways. And they are just as beautiful and “ornamental” as the harmful plants you may be accustomed to!
In the Know with ROW: Invasive and Native Plants will teach you how to remove harmful species safely and effectively as well as which native plants can go in their place. Replacing invasive plants with native plants creates beautiful, easy-to-maintain landscapes in yards while also providing habitats for crucial Indiana species, all while reducing harmful pollution runoff to Indy’s waterways.
Register now for your spot at In the Know with ROW!