How to Make Your Yard More Wildlife Friendly

Co-led by Catherine Shier and Tory Young Sat Mar 3, 2018 – 10 – 11 am at Wild Birds Unlimited 12204 107 Ave NW Edmonton With more citizens becoming interested in exploring ecologically-based approaches to landscaping their private property, the City of Edmonton is helping citizens develop Natural Yards that will be a haven for insects, birds, and other wildlife. Natural Yards use a combination of native and non-native plant species in place of the more conventional turf-dominated landscapes common to residential communities. Catherine will provide an overview of the city-wide planning and mapping that is being undertaken to understand how wildlife move though the City and will outline areas that could benefit with help from the public. Tory will then discuss ways that Edmonton residents can create or add to their yards in such a way as to provide wildlife friendly plants and features such as bird baths, ponds etc. Together Catherine and Tory will: present the benefits of natural yards discuss design principles for your yard discuss the importance of food, water, and shelter in your yard present guides to plant selection show how yard care and maintenance can aid in attracting wildlife review prohibited plants and noxious weeds and more! there will be an opportunity for informal discussion following the presentation. Tory will also discuss what the City of Edmonton is planning to do using the City website, community engagement and a media campaign in Spring 2018 to provide resources and guidance on creating Natural Yards. Your leaders: Catherine Shier, M.Sc., is a Principal Ecological Planner in the Research and Analysis Section, City of Edmonton. Tory Young has a background in residential landscape design and is currently developing the City’s Natural Yards program. This is a free event but as space is limited to 20 people we ask that you register in advance by calling the store at 587-521-2473, or email us at wbuedmonton@gmail.com. Thank you.