History & Mission

SNP co-founders Ben Alexander and SusanBuis

Our History

Ben Alexander and Susan Buis founded Sound Native Plants in 1992, after they had worked together for several years implementing restoration projects for the National Park Service. Frustrated by the lack of opportunities to do meaningful work on ecological restoration, Ben and Susan decided to launch a business dedicated to all aspects of restoration. From the beginning, Sound Native Plants was a different kind of company – one based on collaboration, openness and social responsibility. From a humble office in a converted garage on Olympia’s westside, Sound Native Plants has completed hundreds of projects, grown millions of native plants, and established a reputation for integrity and quality.

Our Mission

Sound Native Plants’ primary goal is to implement environmental restoration using a comprehensive approach to ensure project success. To advance our goal, SNP provides consulting, installation services, and native plant horticulture. SNP endeavors to share our experience with customers and other professionals by offering public workshops, professional continuing education, publications, and training on environmental restoration and mitigation.

What We Do

The business is dedicated to four main facets of restoration: growing, installing, consulting and training/education. Our nursery provides the restoration community with some of the best native plants in western Washington. Our crews install and maintain restoration and mitigation projects throughout the region. We consult on related subjects such as project planning, permitting, and management; and we design planting plans for wetland mitigation, steep slope stabilization, bulkhead alternatives, and other native plant projects. We also regularly provide workshops and trainings for public agencies, non-profit groups, and consulting firms, to share what we have learned over the years.  Altogether, Sound Native Plants provides a comprehensive approach to environmental restoration. Any service you ask of us comes with the benefits of our inclusive understanding of the industry and the ecology involved. For best results, ask us to work on your plan from start to finish and we will make sure that your project succeeds.