Local farmers are making progress in natural resource protection. You can join their conservation tradition, right in your own backyard.

Farmers use conservation plans to help them apply practices that meet their production objectives AND protect soil, water, air, plant, and animal resources. You can develop a plan for your own backyard to help you apply conservation measures that fit your needs. We can provide you with information that will improve the environment while bringing beauty and diversity to your yard - whether your “yard” is measured in acres, feet, or flower pots.

You might consider:

Composting - the process of providing the ideal environment for organic matter decomposition, thus speeding up the decomposition process. The product of composting, called compost or humus, can add organic matter to your garden and potted plants, improve your soil structure, aeration, and water-holding capacity, provide plant nutrients, and may prevent some plant diseases.
 

Mulching - a protective layer of material that is spread on top of the soil. Mulches can either be organic such as grass clippings, straw, and bark chips or inorganic like stones, brick chips, or plastic. Mulching enriches and protects soil, helping provide a better growing environment.
 

Installation of a Rain Barrel - a system that collects and stores rainwater from your roof that would otherwise run off and be diverted to storm drains, streams, and rivers. Rain barrels conserve water for reuse, provide irrigation water during watering restrictions, saves money and energy, and protects our streams and rivers!
 

Backyard Pond – these water features are for birds, butterflies, frogs, fish, you and your family. Backyard ponds are typically small, sometimes no larger than 3 to 4 feet in diameter or can be built in barrels or other patio containers. They are effective in drawing wildlife to your backyard and are a natural, relaxing, and scenic addition that can provide interest and enjoyment.