Our native ecosystem

Here's What You Can Do to Help

How You Can Help

The Buffer Warriors Team

Protect

  • Advocate for native and pollinator plantings in public spaces such as parks, near public buildings, and even in roadway medians.
  • Support local preservation efforts and organizations such as land trusts that help keep plant and animal communities intact.
  • Advocate for protection of sensitive lands and habitats in your community, your state, and the nation.  
  • Press for legislation and financial support for native plants and eradication of invasives
  • Report infestations of invasives on public land to the appropriate authority, such as a park ranger or preserve owner, or document them through the Wild Spotter app.
  • Donate to SCNPS Advocacy efforts. Donations can be recurring, one-time, legacy, or endowments.

Invasive species removal work day at Myrtle Beach State Park. Credit: Maeve Snyder

Restore

  • Convert your home landscape to include more native plants and eradicate invasives.  
  • Participate in plant rescue efforts or invasive species removal projects
  • Avoiding buying plants that are rare, threatened, or endangered as it is very difficult to ensure that they have been cultivated and not poached.
  • Do not collect plants from the wild, public parks, or preserves unless you are sure they are abundant and you are sure you have permission.
  • Do not dispose of aquarium waste and exotic potted plants in your backyard or local waterways, where they can find a way to spread.
  • Do not collect invasive plants—their flowers, fruits, or seeds—as any movement will aid in their spread.
  • Clean clothes, boots, equipment, and especially boats before traveling away from an infested area to prevent the spread of invasives to new areas.

Tree hugging our champion Sassafras (Sassafras albidum). Credit: Jo Ann McCracken-Redding

Educate

  • If you see non-native plants being planted or sold in a commercial nursery or big box store, explain the damage invasive plants can do.
  • Participate in SCNPS field trips to learn more about the native and invasive plants in your area
  • Attend SCNPS chapter meetings and lectures to hear from speakers knowledgeable about topics ranging from gardening for wildlife, sustainable landscaping, academic research, and much more.
  • Join SCNPS symposiums to meet other members, enjoy top-notch speakers, attend workshops, and explore regional special places.
  • Share what you’ve learned about native plants with your friends and family.