We sent out our annual stewardship check-in survey to our Nature Stewards in October and we were amazed at the impressive results. So many people making a real difference in helping nature in their backyards. Read on to hear what they have been up to.
My son viewed our yard from his drone and said it looked like a forest oasis in the middle of open yards. I imagine this is the way the birds see it too. – Sue
Everyone who replied said they are doing something to support nature on their land!
Most reported working hard to control invasive plants and helping to protect sensitive areas by keeping them natural. Over half planted native plants, and nearly half spread the word about nature stewardship to their neighbors.
Collectively Nature Stewards spent more than 650 days working to improve habitat!
As a Nature Steward, I feel that I am doing a small part for the planet by keeping as much of our property as I can in its reasonably natural state. – Jean
Among those who added native plants, 72% planted areas up to the size of a school bus, while 28% planted even bigger areas! When planting, most said they added up to 50 plants to their property this year.
When it comes to finding information about native plants, our Gardening with Native Plants guide and online searches are the top choices.
We continue to strengthen our forest by planting Western Red Cedars (we’ve planted 160 at last count). – Aird
It was inspiring to see how many are taking on invasive plants! More than 80% focused on Himalayan blackberry, with 60% tackling morning glory. Lamium continues to be an issue for 35%.
Plus, many are working on controlling other invasive plant species, including the balsams (Himalayan and small) and knotweed.
Nine Nature Stewards reported treating areas greater than the size of a tennis court!
Many Nature Stewards reported that they were seeing more wildlife as a result of leaving areas natural. This included more native pollinators, frogs, snakes, birds, and the spread of native plants.
The challenges around invasive plants are a common concern.
Many struggle with new invasive plants showing up, difficulty controlling them, and finding enough time!
A few mentioned having neighbours that don’t share their passion for stewardship.
Much more small wildlife (Dragonflies, Grasshoppers, Snakes, Voles, etc.) were observed once the pasture was left to grow wild. – John
Spreading the word can also make a difference!
When sharing stewardship information with neighbors, the most common topic was invasive plants. This was followed by tips on identifying wildlife and details about the FVC’s Nature Stewards Program.
Thank you Nature Stewards for all that you do to help wildlife in your neighbourhood!
This program is made possible thanks to funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada.
