615. The Flora of Home: Why Native Plants Matter on Long Island

Mary Pigliacelli is a writer, editor, and communications professional with more than 30 years of experience supporting nonprofits and educational initiatives. A passionate advocate for native plants and ecological stewardship, she combines her expertise in communications with a deep interest in Long Island’s natural landscapes and biodiversity as the Executive Director of the Long Island Native Plant Initiative (LINPI.org). Mary has completed the Urban Naturalist Certificate Program through the New York Botanical Garden, where she developed field-based knowledge of local ecosystems. A passionate native plant gardener, her home landscape serves as a living example of the beauty and ecological value of locally native species. Through her work and community engagement, she seeks to promote greater awareness of the vital role native plants play in sustaining healthy ecosystems.

Colleen Doyle-Novarra is a native plant landscape designer, permaculture practitioner, and environmental educator dedicated to helping homeowners create beautiful, sustainable landscapes that support biodiversity. A passionate native plant gardener for more than 20 years, she is the founder of Grounded Gardens and serves as co-president of the Long Island Native Plant Initiative (LINPI). Drawing on three decades of experience in leadership and program management, Colleen combines practical expertise with a deep commitment to ecological stewardship, inspiring communities to reconnect with Long Island’s native landscapes through thoughtful garden design and education. Colleen’s mission is to help homeowners experience the joy of native plants and the biodiversity they create while minimizing garden maintenance.