WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new initiative from the Department of the Interior to increase the available supply of native seeds will help restore habitats and ecosystems while making them more resilient to the worsening impacts of the climate crisis. The National Seed Strategy Keystone Initiative includes $18 million in investments and will establish a National Interagency Seed and Restoration Center that expands the availability and supply of native seeds for farmers and communities.

“Native plants support native wildlife and pollinators across public lands and in our backyards, fields, and neighborhoods,” said Mary Phillips, head of native plant habitat strategy at the National Wildlife Federation. “This program will help ensure that investments in habitat and ecosystem restoration have the best possible start with native seeds that are well suited for their habitat. We applaud Secretary Haaland and Director Stone-Manning’s leadership and look forward to working with the Administration and with communities to help expand access to native plants and seeds.” 

The National Wildlife Federation is a proud sponsor of the National Native Seed Conference and supports strategies to ensure diverse, ecoregional seeds are available to meet the need of millions of pounds seed required annually.