The Louisiana Native Plant Society invites Louisiana residents, businesses, schools, and public institutions to certify their outdoor spaces as certified habitats through the Louisiana Certified Habitat Program (LCH). This program encourages property owners to increase and protect the ecological value and natural heritage of their land by recognizing efforts to utilize native plant species and to enact best habitat gardening practices. State-wide, almost 300 properties have certified state-wide to date, and the GNO area reached 100 in Spring 2023! Many applicants choose to appear on the official MAP where certifications are being recorded. Habitat Certification Levels are determined by the amount of native plant species or percentage of native plant species on a property. The levels include bronze, 25 native species or 25% native plants; silver 50 native species or 50% native plants; gold 75 native species or 75% native plants. Because Louisiana Certified Habitats serve as models for the community that cultivate appreciation of native gardens, applicants must be in compliance with local ordinances regarding vegetative growth and maintenance of their landscapes to certify. Certification includes a 9 x 12 inch metal yard sign citing the habitat level. Levels can be upgraded for free at any time.
The Native Plant Initiative of Greater New Orleans (NPI) certifies the Southeast region of Louisiana. Parishes include: Ascension, Assumption, Jefferson, Lafourche, New Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Terrebonne, Washington. There is no minimum acreage requirement. All properties are eligible for certification.
How to apply
- Visit LNPS' website to retrieve instructions/application for your area
- Cost is 35.00 for NPI members, 45.00 for non-members
- Fill out an online application , a native plant checklist is provided
- Upload the native plant checklist and photos of property in online application and submit payment
- OR mail a printed copy of a paper application and native plant checklist with a check to: 248 Brooklyn Avenue, Jefferson, LA 70121.
Payment is due at time of application. When the application and payment are received, a representative from NPI will contact you about the certification process and may request a site visit. A refund will be issued if certification is not granted. Please email npi.gno2019@gmail.com if cost is an issue.
Helpful Links: Native Plant Checklist | Guide to the Plants of Louisiana (not all native) | Tier 1 Invasive Species|Full Brochure