Warren County proclaims April 2026 National Native Plant Month; Soil and Water Conservation District outlines local programs

Warren County commissioners issued a proclamation recognizing April 2026 as National Native Plant Month and heard a presentation from the Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District about local programs to promote native plant stewardship.

Molly Conley, director of the Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District, introduced staff members Cindy Meyer and Melissa Prophet and thanked the board for the proclamation. An education specialist with the district described why native species matter, explaining that native plants support local wildlife through symbiotic relationships, improve soil health and help maintain clean water. She said the district provides K–12 programming, adult workshops and operates an urban conservation learning lab next to the Warren County Foundation in downtown Lebanon.

District staff described practical actions homeowners can take: manage invasive species such as honeysuckle and Bradford pear, leave autumn leaves as mulch, maintain dead wood and bare ground for native pollinators, reduce pesticide use and mow lawns less frequently. Staff also said the district participates in national initiatives such as the Pollinator Pathway and is planning a tree dedication in the fall at Centennial Park in partnership with the Warren County Foundation.

Commissioners accepted the proclamation, offered to pose for photos with district staff and were encouraged to visit the urban garden display. The transcript records appreciation from commissioners and staff; no formal votes or funding decisions were recorded for the programs during the meeting.

What happens next: Staff will continue outreach and education, and a tree dedication is planned for the coming fall; specific dates and funding sources were not provided in the transcript.