This letter is to inform you of the urgent situation surrounding the harvesting of Echinacea plants used in many products sold in your store.Echinacea products are often times taken directly from the prairie with little regard for the health of this threatened ecosystem.Only about 1% of the native prairie ecosystem remains on this continent today.As demand for Echinacea increases, this precious flower is virtually disappearing from many prairies.During recent summers poachers were observed driving through fences onto private land, digging Echinacea, and filling trunks with the roots.Most of these diggers have little regard for the prairie and are told that they are digging up “weeds.”I am writing to ask you for your help in this critical situation.

The demand for Echinacea today is astounding.It is the leading herbal product, and sales are approaching that of aspirin.A product once only available through natural food stores can now be purchased at local grocery and discount stores.America has begun to turn to herbs as an alternative to conventional medicine.While I believe this is a positive development, overall, steps need to be taken to ensure precious plants such as Echinacea are not exploited by irresponsible use.

Fortunately, organically grown Echinacea is starting to “catch up” to the demand.Organically grown Echinacea has been shown to be just as effective as “wild crafted.”Most reputable companies are now using organically grown Echinacea.As a seller of Echinacea products you can play an important role in ensuring that this valuable plant is protected.Through the buying and selling of commercially grown, organic Echinacea, you will be supporting companies that are not harming the prairies.I have also included a sample letter that can be mailed to suppliers since I realize it is not always clear where the Echinacea in a product comes from.If there is any doubt, please write to the companies and express your concern.I thank you for your support, and the prairies thank you too!

Sincerely,

Your Name