By Scout Nelson
Our yards are more than just places to play and relax. With a few thoughtful steps, they can become homes for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife while still looking beautiful. The 2025 Backyard Natural Resources webinar series help people learn how to do just that.
Created with the help of John McMaine, former SDSU Extension Water Management Engineer, the series shares easy, useful ideas for making yards better for nature. These webinars are made for homeowners and gardeners who want to take care of their land in a way that helps both people and the environment.
The main goal of the series is to show how to improve soil health. Healthy soil helps plants grow better and hold water longer, which means less water is needed. This saves both time and money. The webinars also focus on water conservation. Tips like choosing native plants and using mulch can help people use less water in their yards.
Pollinators like bees and butterflies play a big role in nature. The webinar series teaches how to grow plants that support pollinators, and how to avoid using harmful chemicals that can harm them. Making your yard a place where these helpful insects can thrive is a great step toward a healthier environment.
Birds and other small wildlife can also find shelter and food in yards if the right plants and features are used. The series shows how small changes—like planting native shrubs or adding a water source—can create a more welcoming space for wildlife.
Photo Credit: pexels-adam-sondel
Categories: South Dakota, General