Opinion Editorial - Conservation Is Not Just For The Farm

Since the very first Earth Day in 1970, millions of people from more than 190 countries worldwide have come together every April 22 to stand up for the planet and champion a greener, more equitable future for us all. Now in its 54th year, Earth Day serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard the environment and our own future.

With Earth Day just around the corner, it is important to remember no matter who you are, where you are or what you do, you have the power to bring about real and positive change.

At USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, we focus most of our conservation efforts on the farm, but you don't have to live on a large farm to make an impact on our environment. Even average-sized suburban yards or tiny plots in the city can help protect the environment and add beauty and interest to our surroundings with backyard conservation.

Backyard conservation shows you how practices that help conserve and improve natural resources on agricultural land across the country can be adapted for use around your home. 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. Not only can these practices help the environment, but they can also make your yard more attractive and enjoyable.

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. As part of Earth Day, I wanted to share a few tips for how you can be a conservationist in your own backyard.

• Plant trees: Trees in your backyard provide homes for wildlife, lower heating and cooling costs, clean air, add beauty and color, provide shelter from the wind and the sun and improve property values.
• Provide food and shelter for wildlife: Welcome birds, butterflies, beneficial insects, bats and other wildlife to your yard by selecting the right plants. Certain trees, shrubs and flowers - especially those that are native - can give wildlife the perfect food and sanctuary.
• Create a water feature: Clean, fresh water is as important to birds, bats, and other wildlife as it is for people. Water in a saucer, bird bath or backyard pond gives wildlife the water they need. Logs, rocks, and other in-water structures provide drinking and basking habitat for turtles, butterflies, and songbirds. Stones with depressions that collect water will help attract butterflies.
• Consider mulching: Mulching involves placing a layer of organic material around plants. As mulch decomposes, it adds organic matter to the soil. This provides important nutrients for plants and an ideal environment for earthworms and other organisms that help enrich the soil.
• Compost scraps from kitchen and yard: All organic matter eventually decomposes. So, why not spare your trash bags and town's landfill by composting yard and food scraps. Composting, even with a simple compost pile, speeds the process by providing an ideal environment for bacteria and other decomposing micro-organisms. The final product, humus or compost, looks and feels like fertile garden soil. It's perfect for your garden.

I hope this Earth Day you'll enjoy these activities that bring beauty and diversity to your yard- whether your "yard" is measured in acres, feet or flowerpots. I know you'll feel good about improving the environment and joining the conservation tradition of America's farmers and ranchers.