Madrean Archipelago Plant Propagation Initiative (MAPP)
The Madrean Archipelago, also known as the Sky Islands, is a binational ecoregion known for its high concentration of biodiversity. The Madrean Archipelago Plant Propagation (MAPP) Initiative is a regional plant materials partnership lead by the Borderlands Restoration Network and in conjunction with Gila Watershed Partnership, the National Park Service, and the Bureau of Land Management with the primary purpose of coordinating seed collection, curation, and production of plant materials with on-the-ground restoration to protect and support the important ecosystems of the Sky Islands.
Why A Seed Strategy?
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The Sky Island region has been severely impacted by changes to fire regimes and land use patterns, which have led to widespread habitat degradation. Numerous ecological restoration projects are underway, but they are often limited by availability of locally adapted native plant materials relying on seed purchased from commercial growers in other states or regions. There is growing recognition of the need for regionally sourced plant materials to boost the resiliency of restoration efforts. MAPP seeks to increase availability of locally adapted native plant materials for use in regional restoration efforts. |
MAPP OBJECTIVES
Partners identified five primary objectives for expanding the availability and use of native plant materials during the next five year period, including:
- Support ongoing collection of genetically appropriate ecotypes for a range of target species
- Increase local cleaning and storage capacity, and expand potential for information sharing
- Build a balanced market by connecting producers and users of container plants, seed, and hay, and inform ordering and production timelines
- Nurture collaboration and expand networks to avoid duplication of efforts and redundancy across the southwest
- Support the growing economic base by practicing effective restoration strategies
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