by Rick Huffman
Greetings, Native Plant Enthusiast,
Welcome to 2026, the 30th anniversary of the South Carolina Native Plant Society! This will be a year of reflection, storytelling, celebration, and renewed purpose as the voice for native plants.
Over the past three decades, SCNPS has expanded its reach and influence across education, land conservation, and policy at the federal, state, and local levels. Today, we proudly stand with eight chapters and more than 1,700 members. We own properties, restore native ecosystems, educate communities, and strengthen conservation partnerships across the state.
Why and how we were founded
In late 1995, as a young landscape architect, I was frustrated by the lack of recognition native plants received in professional practice. The industry was disconnected from nature, and native plants were often dismissed. Garden centers even asked me not to mention them. It was clear we needed education, advocacy, and a new paradigm — one where stewardship and wildlife support through native plants were central to design.
My solution was to create a Native Plant Society in South Carolina — an educational platform and catalyst for change. In response to my letter-writing campaign, a small group gathered in March 1996 to begin the journey that shaped the organization we know today.
Our co-founders included Dr. Bill Stringer, Bruce Reynolds, Tom and Caroline Goforth, Joe Townsend, and others such as Bill Sharpton and Janie and Steve Marlow, who brought dedication and skill. From that humble beginning, we grew quickly; within a year, we had three chapters and a statewide presence.
One of our accomplishments I’m most proud of is that 25 years ago, we became founding members of the National Native Plant Conservation Alliance with Lady Bird Johnson. Our collective voice helped elevate native plants into the national conversation.
Last year, we helped write state legislation that officially established Native Plant Week in South Carolina. We continue to work with state agencies and legislators to further integrate native plants into government policy. We’re building seed bank networks, expanding native plant certificate programs, and strengthening regional conservation efforts. Our history is rich — and our impact is real.
A legacy of stewardship many have dedicated their lives to building
As a founder of this organization, I am humbled by the hundreds of volunteers who have given countless hours, traveled thousands of miles to collect seeds, deliver lectures, manage native plant sales, eradicate invasive plants, and build coalitions with conservation partners, to name only a few of the critical roles volunteers have filled.
Our 30-year milestone reflects the power of people who care deeply and give generously. It is a celebration of friendships, shared purpose, and the peace that comes from working for something larger than ourselves.
But our work is far from finished. Our vision includes expanding seed bank networks, offering educational programs to groups of all ages, supporting native plant nurseries, preserving more land, and growing conservation partnerships. Together, we will continue to build on our legacy of stewardship.
On March 17th, we’ll celebrate our 30th anniversary with a big birthday party to share stories, honor the champions who came before us, and envision all we can accomplish together over the next decade. We’ll enjoy food, fellowship, and fun. Watch for more details, and I hope you can be there.
It has been an honor to serve this Society for 30 years, and I am deeply grateful for your support.
Your President,
Rick Huffman, FASLA
