Growing and restoring healthy, climate-resilient habitat is critical to supporting bird populations in urban and rural areas. A key part of this work is increasing the availability of locally and ethically sourced native seeds and plants.

The Southern Ontario Seed Strategy (SOSS) is a regional solution to increase the quantity and diversity of native seeds and plants in southern Ontario to meet ecological restoration and cultural needs over the next five years and beyond. The strategy addresses the challenges, gaps, and opportunities to build a robust and ethical seed supply chain in the region as governments seek to deliver on 2030 biodiversity commitments and goals for climate resilience.

As part of the implementation of the SOSS, five regional Native Seed & Plant Partnerships (NSPPs) in southern Ontario have formed, facilitated by Carolinian Canada, the Ontario Native Plant Growers Association (ONPGA), and Canadian Wildlife Federation. These partnerships bring together native plant growers, users, and distributors to learn, connect, and improve access to regionally appropriate native seed and plants.

NSPP participation provides opportunities to:

• Build relationships with local growers and suppliers
• Learn about regional seed priorities and best practices
• Contribute to critical regional needs forecasting
• Support Indigenous leadership, reconciliation, and culturally appropriate use
• Strengthen local supply chains for restoration, gardening, and conservation

Municipalities, conservation authorities, land trusts, nurseries, and other rightsholders and partners across southern Ontario are already engaged in regional NSPPs. City staff, community groups, and individuals working to create bird-friendly habitat are welcome to join, including those looking to participate as buyers, project partners, or champions of local native plant initiatives.

Southern Ontario Seed Strategy (SOSS): caroliniancanada.ca/seed

Native Seed & Plant Partnerships (NSPPs): caroliniancanada.ca/seed/partnerships

To reach out or learn more: [email protected]