John will begin with some personal background history, followed-up with science facts that have led us to where we are today with massive wildlife species decline-mostly due to plant habitat loss-and the critical need for native plant restoration. From there, he’ll explain how the landscape industry has the greatest opportunity over any other to make the most positive impact towards correcting this problem and saving our native wildlife heritage simply by substituting native plants in their landscape projects. Next, he will show examples of native plants and locally-sourced materials utilized in all manner of landscape design styles-other than the typical “weed-patch” effect that, unfortunately, has so many turned-off to this concept! He will also explain what he personally believes to be the definition of “true Sustainability”. At the end, he’ll summarize his experiences since 1970 and make a plea to the Designers, Growers and Contractors…Reminding them that they can leave a legacy, and be heroes-That they have the power to make this change and save our planet for our children and future generations.