Bringing conservation from the countryside to your backyard
Just as they do on the farm, conservation practices on nonagricultural land can help increase food and shelter for birds and other wildlife, control soil erosion, reduce sediment in waterways, conserve water and improve water quality, inspire a stewardship ethic, and beautify the landscape.
“Backyard Conservation” shows you how conservation practices that help conserve and improve natural resources on agricultural land across the country can be adapted for use around your home. These practices help the environment and can make your yard more attractive and enjoyable. Most backyard conservation practices are easy to use. America’s farmers and ranchers have been using these practices successfully for decades.
Whether you have rural acreage, a suburban yard, or a city lot, you can help protect the environment and add beauty and interest to your surroundings. Ten conservation practices have been scaled down for homeowners. Tip sheets offer “how to” steps and helpful hints:
| The tip sheets and a colorful 28-page booklet on Backyard Conservation are available free by calling 1-888-LANDCARE (single copies only), emailing landcare@usda.gov, or visiting theNRCS publications web site. |
“Backyard Conservation” is a cooperative project of the National Association of Conservation Districts , the Wildlife Habitat Council , the National Audubon Society, and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Backyard Conservation Lesson Plans
A series of lesson plans to teach students about Backyard Conservation through hands-on studies that promote field investigation and action. Lesson plans are available for elementary grades 3 to 5, middle school grades 6 to 8, and high school grades 9 to 12.
See sample news releases and features on Backyard Conservation.
Excerpt from: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/backyard/
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