You can help improve our environment by making a few simple changes in your backyard. Most steps are simple, straightforward and help is available if you are unsure how to get started.

Conservation Tip #1: Mulch

Straw, bark, grass, wood chips or stone provide a protective layer over the topsoil. Mulching reduces erosion and aids with water conservation by holding water around the base of plants to help prevent evaporation. Mulch is a great garden aid to help keep weeds from growing, cutting down on your gardening work. It is also a conservation method that can add a finishing touch in your lawn or garden.

Conservation Tip #2: Bird Sanctuaries

Allowing trees and bushes to grow in your yard provides a safe environment for birds to build homes and forage. In addition to natural bird sanctuaries, birdhouses made from gourds or small wooden birdhouses also offer ideal homes for birds.

If you are providing sanctuary for birds, you may also include bird feeders. Birdseed comes in different varieties which tend to attract different birds. Inexpensive bird feeders can be purchased in almost any retail store. Homemade bird feeders often include spreading peanut butter on a pinecone or apple and rolling it in birdseed.

The key to feeding birds is to position your bird feeder on a pole, or some other position so that squirrels will not steal the food. Squirrels are ruthless when it comes to hoarding food.

Conservation Tip #3: Plant

You may be an avid gardener or someone who has never had their hands in the soil. It’s time to dig in and plant. Flowers will beautify your landscape. Fruits and vegetables can be grown organically and help put food on your table.

One of the best things you can plant is a tree. Trees are essential to our environment. The oxygen, carbon-dioxide exchange between plants and animals depends in large part upon trees. Trees can be purchased to produce fruit, flower, or provide shade. Consider the ultimate size of the tree you are going to plant and choose your planting location carefully. Your new tree will not only beautify your yard but will provide new sanctuary for birds and other wildlife.

Conservation Tip #4: Wildlife Sanctuary

Trees, shrubs, and ground cover all provide places for wildlife to live and find refuge. If you would like to invite and house more wildlife in your yard, prepare areas specifically for wildlife to live. Consider planting fruit-bearing shrubs, to provide food for wildlife.

Garden vegetables will also feed wildlife. If you garden for you and your family, fence off your garden from your wildlife garden, consider planting a few garden vegetables within the wildlife sanctuary of your land.

Flowering plants will also attract birds and butterflies. Once birds find your sanctuary, they may decide to make it their home.