Gardeners Go Wild for Wildlife

David Mizejewski, naturalist, National Wildlife Federation

Something wonderful is happening in backyards across the country, and it's great news for birds, butterflies, toads and turtles. We asked David Mizejewski, a naturalist with the National Wildlife Federation and host of Animal Planet's Backyard Habitat TV series, why he thinks there's such a surge of interest in creating backyard wildlife habitats. "I'm a gardener myself," said David, "and over the past couple of years I've seen a big change in how people are thinking about their yards and gardens. They're seeing the effects of global warming and other environmental problems right in their own yard, and they're looking for ways to be part of the solution."

The National Wildlife Federation's Certified Wildlife Habitat Program has been around for more than 30 years. But interest in the program is soaring and more than 90,000 people have now certified their backyards, schoolyards, parks and more. "The effect of adding food, water, cover and places for wildlife to raise their young is almost immediate," says David. "The motto 'If you build it, they will come' definitely applies to wildlife. Almost every species is under habitat pressure and looking for a green oasis. When people put up a birdhouse, plant bee balm or zinnias, add a few berry-producing native shrubs and a water feature, they're always amazed by how quickly word gets around!"

David has been fascinated with wild creatures for as long as he can remember. He spent his youth in the woods, fields and marshes of suburban New Jersey, observing and learning about the diversity of wildlife that inhabit those areas. "NWF's Backyard Certification Program is a tremendous way to get people engaged with wildlife," says David. "The result is almost always a greater appreciation of the natural world and the complexity of natural ecosystems."

Gardener's Supply has been a longtime supporter of NWF's Certified Wildlife Habitat Program, and we are eager to spread the word. Getting your backyard certified is remarkably easy and can all be done online! From now through Dec. 31, 2007, the cost is just $5 for Gardener's Supply customers. Learn more