There is an unbreakable link between native plant species and native wildlife.  Indeed, most native insects cannot, or will not, eat alien plants. When native plant species disappear or are replaced by alien exotics, the insects disappear, thus impoverishing the food source for birds and other animals. In many parts of the world, habitat destruction has been so extensive that local wildlife populations are in crisis and may well be headed toward extinction.  

The national Firewise Communities program is a multi-agency effort designed to reach beyond fire service by involving homeowners, community leaders, planners, developers, and others in the effort to protect people, property, and natural resources from the risk of wildland fire - before a fire starts.

Firewise You Can Use is a series of interactive modules to help you prepare your home for wildfire season.  On the same website, check out Resources for the Homeowner for checklists and information on construction materials, landscaping, watering and more.   Go to the Firewise link to learn more. 

Many small acreage livestock owners live within or close to residential areas.  The amount of land per animal is typically small, which can create problems with manure storage, handling and utilization.  Rain and melting snow can carry pollutants associated with livestock manure and related activities into our waters. These pollutants can harm your own drinking water well or your neighbor’s, contaminate groundwater and adversely affect our properties.