The 7th Principle, Respect for the interdependent web of life of all existence, of which we are a part, was the basis for the decision to use native plants for the landscaping design for our building. Our property is a certified Wildlife Sanctuary through the National Wildlife Federation. We are also a part of an exciting program to join others who are choosing to use native plants to create an ecosystem that supports the diversity of life in Delaware.
Imagine living in community with others who work together to provide connected yards, land to develop habitats for migrating birds by nurturing life that sustains them. We do not have large natural park areas in Southern Delaware. However, Doug Tallamy, an entomologist, conservationist and professor at The University of Delaware, has encouraged millions to see their own yards as part of the solution to our biodiversity crisis. Through his research and books, Bringing Nature Home and Nature’s Best Hope, he has motivated people to explore the possibilities of planting and nurturing native plants. As an increasing number of people transform yards into habitats, diverse insects and birds thrive. Check out the website homegrownnationalpark.org for more information.
I hope that you take an opportunity to walk around our beautiful property at UUSD. Because we use native plants that support birds and all sorts of insects, including butterflies and caterpillars, there is always interesting activity in the air. Our wild flower garden is one way we add to the Home-Grown National Park Project. Each year our wildflower garden becomes alive with pollinators and caterpillars who help our birds flourish.
The 7th Principle, Respect for the interdependent web of life of all existence, of which we are a part, was the basis for the decision to use native plants for the landscaping design for our building. Our property is a certified Wildlife Sanctuary.
As you wander the property, you might want to use the free Merlin Bird ID app by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. The app will identify the birds you hear and tell you a little about the birds in the area. It’s fun, and it’s pretty amazing to discover all of the birds who visit and live on our property.