HR0659 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0659 LRB101 15581 MST 64927 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Native plants, unlike non-native species, are vitally important to Illinois because they are adapted to the conditions of the local environment and are the foundation of the region's biodiversity; plant species native to woodlands, prairies, and wetlands serve as a critical resource for birds, as they provide essential food and shelter and help mitigate the challenging effects of the changing climate; many species of insects have co-evolved with native plants over time and are essential food sources for birds; and

WHEREAS, Each community in Illinois can provide healthy spaces for birds by expanding or maintaining native plant habitats; such spaces will also benefit the citizens of Illinois; by simply choosing native plants for a personal garden, yard, or public space, the use of fertilizer and pesticides can be minimized, significant amounts of water can be conserved, and energy demands can be reduced, thus creating heathy communities and saving costs for households, towns, and cities; and

WHEREAS, Native plants play a critical role in supporting birds and the environment; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare April 20-24, 2020 as Native Plant Week; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the Lake County Audubon Society.