Our Certified Wildlife Habitat: A Milestone in Sustainable Gardening

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news! Tiny Forest Farm has officially been certified as a National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Certified Wildlife Habitat®. This certification reflects our commitment to creating a garden that nurtures biodiversity and provides a sanctuary for local wildlife.

What Is a Certified Wildlife Habitat?

The National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Wildlife Habitat program encourages homeowners, schools, and community spaces to create environments that support local ecosystems. A certified habitat provides essential resources like food, water, cover, and places for wildlife to raise their young, all while using sustainable practices.

By certifying Tiny Forest Farm, we have transformed a suburban space into a thriving ecosystem. Birds, bees, butterflies, and other creatures now call this garden home, benefiting from a carefully planned space that balances beauty with biodiversity.

Why Certification Matters

In a time when natural habitats are shrinking, creating wildlife-friendly spaces—even in urban or suburban settings—has a big impact. Certified habitats help:

     •           Support pollinators critical for food production.

     •           Provide sanctuary for migratory species.

     •           Restore balance to local ecosystems.

     •           Inspire others to take steps toward sustainable living.

This milestone reinforces our commitment to helping clients create gardens that are not just beautiful but also ecologically meaningful.

How You Can Certify Your Yard

Certifying your yard as a wildlife habitat is easier than you might think! Here’s how you can get started:

1. Provide Wildlife Essentials

Ensure your yard includes these key elements:

Food: Incorporate native plants that produce seeds, berries, nectar, or nuts. In Minnesota’s Zone 4, consider species like:

·       Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): Attracts butterflies and bees with its nectar-rich blooms.

·       Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Provides nectar for pollinators and seeds for birds.

·       Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): A favorite among bees and hummingbirds.

Water: Add a birdbath, small pond, or shallow water dish for drinking and bathing. Ensure the water source is clean and accessible year-round.

Cover: Create hiding spots with shrubs, brush piles, or native grasses where wildlife can feel safe. Suitable options include:

·       Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis, or Nigra) Offers dense cover and berries for birds.

·       American Hazelnut (Corylus americana): Provides shelter and nuts for wildlife.

Places to Raise Young: Offer nesting boxes, host plants for caterpillars, or shrubs for nesting birds. For example:

·       Milkweed (Asclepias spp.): Essential host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars.

·       Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): Supports nesting birds and offers berries.

Sustainable Practices: Use organic methods, avoid chemical pesticides, conserve water, and add compost to enrich soil. Implementing practices like mulching and rainwater harvesting can further enhance sustainability.

2. Document Your Habitat

Take inventory of your garden’s features and ensure they meet the NWF requirements. You don’t need a sprawling yard—small spaces work, too! Keep a journal or take photos to track your progress and observe the wildlife your garden attracts.

3. Submit Your Application

Visit the National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Wildlife Habitat Program and fill out their application. There’s a small fee, but it supports the NWF’s conservation efforts.

4. Celebrate Your Certification

Once certified, you’ll receive an official certificate and the option to purchase a sign to display in your garden. It’s a great way to inspire neighbors and show your commitment to sustainability.

Local Resources and Support

For those in Minnesota, particularly in Zone 4, several organizations can provide guidance and support in creating wildlife-friendly habitats:

     •           University of Minnesota Extension: Offers resources on pollinator-friendly planting and sustainable gardening practices.

     •           Minnesota Department of Natural Resources: Provides information on local pollinators and how to support them.

     •           Minnesota Master Naturalist Program: Educates and supports citizens in conservation efforts across the state.

Join the Movement!

Certifying your yard as a wildlife habitat is a meaningful way to contribute to conservation efforts, no matter the size of your garden. Ready to take the plunge? Let us know how we can help you create a wildlife-friendly space tailored to your needs.

Together, we can transform ordinary yards into extraordinary ecosystems that nurture both people and the planet. 🌿