Bird populations continue to decline worldwide. Habitat loss is one of the main threats to endangered and common species of birds. You can take action as individuals, families, neighborhoods, and towns to provide suitable habitat for birds and other wildlife while improving lives!

Almost 60 percent of land in Connecticut is forested. Sprawl and development threaten what is left. Development patterns also threaten water supplies, agricultural lands, and suburban and rural communities. Whether you live in an urban, suburban, or rural community in Connecticut you will find yourself connected to the land.

5 Guiding Principles 

1) Eliminate or Reduce Pesticide Use

Overuse of pesticides and other household chemicals can have detrimental effects on environmental and public health. Often we are unaware of the risks. Be an informed consumer and choose to use these products more carefully to protect your family and backyard wildlife. Learn more.

2) Plant Native Species 

Native plants naturally occur in a particular region. They have evolved over thousands of years to that region’s climate, hydrology, and geography. Many animal species depend on native plants for survival. There are many benefits to using native plants in your garden and for landscaping purposes. They are cost effective, good for the environment and wildlife, and beautiful! Learn more.

3) Remove Exotic Invasive Plants

Invasive plants are non-native plants that cause environmental or economic harm to a region. They can alter the way plants, animals, water, and soil interact within native ecosystems. Removing invasive plants is time-consuming and costly. Avoid using invasive plants and learn more about the top invasive plants in Connecticut. Learn more.

4) Conserve Water 

Billions of gallons of water are used daily in the United States. Rarely do we consider where it comes from. Most of our water use goes to landscaping practices and other household uses. Learning how to conserve water now will help protect this finite resource in the future. Learn more.

5) Protect Water Quality

We all contribute to water pollution in some way. Runoff from streets, parking lots, and other impervious surfaces as well as runoff from yards, which can contain pesticides, fertilizers, and even pet waste are considered non-point source pollutants. Eventually, this waste drains into the Long Island Sound and other bodies of water in Connecticut. Learn how you can reduce your impact. Learn more.