T
he woods in your backyard are remarkably resilient, but they are not immune
from damage. Fortunately, you have some control over the ecological health
of your little piece of the earth. What you decide to do with your property
(or decide not to do) affects it, the land adjacent to it, the water that
falls on it and flows over it, and the birds, butterflies, and other animals
that rely on it. Even doing nothing has an effect.
With a little planning and a little work, you'll see the benefits of your
efforts. For example, if you see muddy water in the ditch after a rainstorm
this year and you plant bushes and wildflowers to slow the runoff, your reward
will be clean flowing water next year. You'll keep your nutrient rich soil
in your yard and the whole range of aquatic life in nearby streams will benefit.
You'll see the results of your own efforts right out your back door.
Download the
complete chapter:
Chapter 6. Being a Friend to Your Woods: Protecting
Your Land from Damage
(pdf format: 916KB)
