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190 , Zaco eC) Ko f ' s� Pf 4 /7bco <br /> ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> PROCLAMATION <br /> NATIVE PLANT MONTH 2O26 <br /> WHEREAS , numerous indigenous plants occur in Orange County and have evolved and adapted <br /> over many years in the county ' s ecosystems and habitats ; and <br /> WHEREAS , native plants are vital to maintain and restore a healthy ecosystem which sustains <br /> our environment , including but not limited to : seed dispersal , pollination of crops and natural <br /> vegetation , prevention of flooding , erosion and drought , regulation of disease -carrying organisms , <br /> and moderation of weather extremes ; and <br /> WHEREAS , native plants provide shelter, nectar , pollen and seeds to ensure that butterflies , <br /> insects , birds , amphibians and other wildlife thrive ; and <br /> WHEREAS , it is estimated that there are more than 17 , 000 native plant species in the United <br /> States ; and <br /> WHEREAS , North Carolina is home to more than 3 , 900 native plant species , including trees , <br /> shrubs , vines , grasses , and wildflowers , making it one of the most diverse states for native plants <br /> in the southeast , with 969 of these species have been designated as significantly rare , in decline <br /> and /or may be in danger of extinction , and 94 of the 969 imperiled plants have been found in <br /> Orange County ; and <br /> WHEREAS , invasive species negatively contribute to habitat degradation and loss , extreme <br /> weather events , and the decline of native plants in the United States ; and <br /> WHEREAS , native plants are essential components of resilient ecosystems and our natural <br /> heritage ; <br /> NOW, THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners hereby <br /> designates April 2026 as " Native Plant Month " in Orange County and recognizes the benefits of <br /> native plants to the environment and economy of Orange County , the State of North Carolina and <br /> the United States . <br /> This , the 7t" Day of April , 2026 . <br /> can Hamilton , Chair <br /> Orange County Board of Commissioners <br /> AT ST : <br /> Laura Je se <br /> Clerk to the Board of Commissioners 17 5z <br />