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Short Supply, Growing Demand: Exploring Challenges and Opportunities within Virginia’s Native Coastal and Wetland Plant Supply Chain
Klesch, Natalie M.
Klesch, Natalie M.
Abstract
As nature-based approaches to coastal restoration and shoreline management gain momentum in Virginia, the need for native coastal and wetland plants to support these efforts has grown. Yet in-state supply has not kept pace with the rising demand for these species. To examine the underlying causes of this supply gap, semi-structured interviews were conducted with two key stakeholder groups: restoration practitioners and nursery operators. The interviews captured both demand-side challenges related to plant sourcing and supply-side constraints affecting nursery production. Practitioners reported that limited in-state supply and inconsistent availability of key species often led them to rely on out-of-state nurseries. Nursery operators noted that structural barriers—such as the high cost of land and infrastructure—limit opportunities to expand production capacity. Operators also emphasized that inconsistent and unpredictable demand, compounded by limited coordination and short lead times from practitioners, can make it difficult to align production with restoration needs. Both groups offered recommendations aimed at improving coordination and strengthening the in-state supply of native plants, including strategies to enhance collaborative planning and improve information sharing. Ultimately, stronger partnerships across the supply chain will be key to ensuring a more reliable plant supply to support Virginia’s long-term coastal restoration and resilience goals.
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2025-01-01
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Virginia Institute of Marine Science
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doi.org/10.25773/0mwv-7y91