Literature

Native Plants Materials Policy: A Strategic Framework, 2012, USDA Forest Service, Washington, DC 20250-0003.

Native plant communities are key to ecosystem health, resiliency, and productivity. Since its creation, the Forest Service has been using native plants in reforestation, rangeland improvement, watershed restoration, wildlife enhancement, mine reclamation, and myriad other planting and seeding activities (hereafter collectively referred to as ‘revegetation’). Over the years, the Forest Service has made major strides in genetics research, seed collection, nursery propagation, storage procedures, and the design of appropriate management monitoring practices, particularly for native tree species associated with timber production.

Recognizing the need to maintain native plant communities as part of fully functioning ecosystems, Forest Service Chief Bosworth directed natural resource professionals from within the National Forest System, State and Private Forestry, and Research deputy area to develop Forest Service policy for promoting the use of native plants in revegetation projects on National Forest System lands. This policy (FSM 2070), issued in 2008, is designed to help combat invasive species, mitigate impacts of climate change, and maintain healthy forests.