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 Who is eligible for a Smartyard?
Residents within Delaware's Christina Basin Watershed.
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When are the Smartyards materials available?
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How do you apply?
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More Opportunities
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In Delaware, the Backyard Habitat program is conducted by the Delaware Nature
Society in partnership with:
National Wildlife Federation
Delaware Department of Natural
Resources and Environmental
Control
Gateway Garden Center
University of Delaware Water
Resources Agency
Wild Birds Unlimited
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Smartyards
Through grant funding provided by the Environmental Protection Agency's watershed initiative, the Delaware Nature Society and the Christina Basin Clean Water Partnership are pleased to offer 150 individuals Smartyard landscaping packages.
What is a Smartyard?
Specially designed to utilize Delaware native plant species, "Smartyards" provide habitat for a greater diversity of wildlife species, reduce or eliminate the need for chemical fertilizer and pesticide applications, and conserve water resources more than traditional turf grass landscapes. "Smartyards" is a unique component of the Delaware Nature Society's Backyard Habitat program. By participating in this program, you can discover how to provide an oasis for local birds, butterflies, and other wildlife while helping to ensure the health of our streams and rivers.
150 Smartyard participants receive landscaping packages (value $500) that include:
- a variety of native trees, shrubs, and perennials provided by Gateway Garden Center. You will have the opportunity to select among the list of species to fit your personal choices;
- a bird feeder, nesting box, and bird bath provided by Wild Birds Unlimited to enhance the habitat value of your property;
- a Delaware Nature Society Backyard Habitat starter kit filled with educational and how-to resources to help you begin gardening for wildlife. The kit contains your application for certification, water quality checklist, Delaware native plant list, local watershed information, habitat planning guide, and tip sheets on attracting birds and butterflies;
- one-on-one technical assistance from Delaware Nature Society trained Habitat Stewards to help you enhance the wildlife and environmental value of your property;
- planning and installation guidelines to ensure proper placement and maintenance of the plant materials; and
- a rain barrel to help you conserve water resources.
All Smartyard materials are provided free of charge. Recipients must agree to attend a brief introductory meeting at Ashland Nature Center, pick up and install all materials, provide mulch for plantings, and display a small Backyard Habitat sign (less than 8" x 11").
© 2005 Delaware Nature Society
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