Saving the World

Some mornings the news is pretty hard to take. Environmentally, we humans don't have such a hot record for co-existing with nature. Reading about oil spills, global warming, and invasive species is enough to get you down.

If the bad news all becomes a little overwhelming to you too, let me share a few thing you can do to make a difference.

1. Provide Habitat


The last slide from my "Creating an Oz for Butterflies" program pretty much sums it up. Plant native plants (especially native trees) to improve YOUR corner of the world. You might be surprised with the wildlife that will visit... and even come to depend on your oasis or "Oz."

Landscapers and homeowners tend to avoid using tree species that shed fruits or nuts on lawns. So, what do you think our wildlife will live on? Plant a wild cherry, oak or hickory tree if you want to see nature in action.

2. Preseve habitats-

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Here is a feel-good story about a guy who is hosting the ONLY remaining Swamp Metalmarks in Ohio. He didn't even have to plant natives. He just didn't mess up the habitat that was already there! Follow this link to the story in the Bellefontaine Enquirer to read about my hero.

3. Support a conservation group- or several!

Greater Mohican Audubon Society, OOS, Black Swamp Bird Observatory have all done educational programs and promote conservation. There are many organizations that need your help (or $ if you can't spare the time.)

So, those were three simple, empowering, things you can do.

And if you are most interested in that important link between native plants and nature- I encourage you to check this out:

Here is a book that could change your life. Reading Bringing Nature Home will help you understand how important native plant species are to the survival of birds, butterflies and other natural wonders... including singing insects! The book is also a great resource for lists of "best" trees and shrubs.

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No one of us can save the world... but we can make a difference, by simply re-thinking our own backyards. As Tallamy wrote in my copy of the book, "Garden as if life depended on it."