Alaska Native Plant Month 2026

WHEREAS, native plants are indigenous species that occur naturally in particular geographic regions, ecosystems, and habitats; and

WHEREAS, native plants support healthy, diverse, and sustainable communities and ecosystems by purifying air, filtering water, stabilizing soils, and nourishing birds, insects, and other native wildlife in ways that non-native plants cannot; and

WHEREAS, Alaska's native plants are well adapted to our State's soils, temperatures, precipitation, and environmental conditions, making them the best option for conserving and protecting our environment and adapting to its changes; and

WHEREAS, Alaska is home to more than 2,500 native plant species including trees, shrubs, grasses, mosses, and wildflowers; and

WHEREAS, native plants are an integral part of traditional and cultural practices of Alaska Native peoples, and native plants have provided food, medicine, shelter, and other life necessities to Alaskans for many generations; and

WHEREAS, opportunities exist to promote new and expand existing industry in Alaska to grow from seed, harvest, and propagate native plants for supply to local retailers, landscapers, and other emerging markets; and

WHEREAS, it is important to promote public awareness of the benefits of Alaska's native plants to traditional ways of life, cultural heritage, pollinators and wildlife, the economy, and the health and sustainability of Alaska's communities and ecosystems.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim May 2026 as:

Alaska Native Plant Month

in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers in their yards, remove non-native invasive plants, and educate themselves about the many benefits of native plants.

Dated: May 1, 2026