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      Habitat Protection

My community has considered the economic benefits of preserving open space and habitats for ecotourism and recreational activities.

Natural areas in my community have been protected from development.

The vegetation in my community is as diverse as it was years ago.

There are ample outdoor recreational areas in my community.

The quality of fishing in my community is not declining.

Wetlands are not being filled or drained in my community.

Sensitive habitats that need special consideration and protection in planning have been identified in my community.

My community actively reviews development projects to consider the impact they will have on local habitats.

My community understands that the health and wellbeing of our natural environmental affects the health and wellbeing of our community, and vice versa. 

The environment provides habitat (a place to live) for plants and animals by providing the diversity of resources that support life. They also absorb pollutants from the atmosphere, and play large role in local and global climates, influencing precipitation and temperature patterns.  When natural habitats are lost, it impacts more than just wildlife.  It also impacts our personal health and wellbeing. New Yorkers benefit from the recreation, ecotourism, and educational opportunities natural habitats provide, as well as their contribution to our sense of place.

Maintaining a Home For Wildlife in Your Backyard

Landowners throughout New York State have streams, ponds, and lakes on and around their property.  Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) help communities and individuals do their best to protect aquatic species and terrestrial wildlife that call these water bodies and surrounding riparian areas home.  For example, the Yates County Soil and Water Conservation District assists landowners to protect and enhance wildlife habitats in and around their ponds.  Staff provide site-specific technical advice pertaining to plant growth, health of resident fish species, flood and spill over considerations, maintenance of the physical integrity of ponds, and techniques to manage water body health. Contact your local District to obtain advice about water bodies on your land and in your community.  Visit www.nys-soilandwater.org for contact information.

Encourage your community to prepare a natural resource plan with citizen involvement. If you already have one, see how it has been implemented. You can make your yard more inviting to wildlife by planting to provide habitat and encourage biodiversity.  Your County Soil and Water Conservation District offers free technical advice about appropriate plants for your property, and provides inexpensive native wildflowers, trees and shrubs through its Tree and Shrub Program.

Respond to these statements about your local environment and what you and your community are doing to protect your basic survival needs.  If some statements do not apply to your community, consider them in the context of your watershed.  See the Technical and Financial Assistance Guide for resources regarding “False” and “Find Out!” responses, and contact your County Soil and Water Conservation District.