Enhancement of highways, scenic byways, and welcome centers across the State of Louisiana is critical for tourism and eventual economic development of the state. The use of native plant species in highway enhancement and beautification of welcome centers has become a promising alternative to lowering maintenance costs while enhancing highway beautification across the United States.

Louisiana populations of native wildflowers are being located and seeds collected. The project is a collaboration of researchers at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL), the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM), and Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU). Seed increase plots will be established in three regions of the state so that the LaDOTD can begin roadside and welcome center plantings. In addition, a large scale seed bank facility will be built at ULL for long term storage of surplus seeds.