Golf courses: Become a breeding ground for bluebirds, tree swallows, and chickadees. Reduce the amount of turfgrass and develop natural “no-mow” landscapes that will reduce energy and costs and will protect water quality. Our habitat enhancement/environmental monitoring program can be tailored to your needs.

  

The Community Wildlife Program works with members of the community to enhance their property for wildlife habitat. We encourage environmental awareness and stewardship as well as provide the education, resources and assistance necessary to improve ecological systems in Southwest Michigan. Our biologists consult with homeowners, regional businesses, and golf courses.
 
Homeowners: Reduce the area of your conventional lawn with attractive native plants. You will appreciate the environmental, economic and aesthetic benefits of native landscaping. 
 

 

 Why choose native plants for your landscape?




Native plants are adapted to Michigan climate and soils; they are drought and flood tolerant.

They require less maintenance. Once the plants are established and the roots are developed, they require little watering. They also thrive in Michigan soils with little need for fertilizer, herbicides, or pesticides.

Their deep root systems improve water quality. Roots can reach 4-10 feet in depth and absorb a significant amount of water. Their roots filter out ground water contaminants and the water is much cleaner before it reaches rivers, streams or lakes.

Native plants prevent erosion. The roots hold the soil together and prevent erosion during strong winds or rains.

Native plants attract wildlife. Birds, butterflies, and other animals have established relationships with plants native to Michigan and rely on them for food and shelter.