Alabama is home to a rich and diverse natural landscape, from the rolling Appalachian foothills to the lush coastal plains. However, with increasing urbanization, habitat destruction, and the spread of invasive species, the state’s native ecosystems are under constant threat. The good news? Every Alabamian can play a role in conservation—starting in your own backyard.

Restoring Native Habitats: Assess the Situation

One of the most effective ways to support Alabama’s environment is by restoring native habitats. Kyle Lybarger, founder of the Native Habitat Project, emphasizes the importance of planting native species and removing invasive ones. “The grasslands are slowly being destroyed, but you can choose to bring them back,” he says. Native plants provide essential food and shelter for local wildlife, help maintain soil health, and require less water and maintenance than non-native alternatives.

The Alabama Wildlife Federation provides support to landowners who may have native prairie fragments on their property. “A technical expert can help you determine if natural restoration is possible and apply the necessary treatments,” says Claude Jenkins, Resource Stewardship biologist for the AWF. Seeking guidance from conservation experts ensures that native grasslands and other ecosystems are properly restored and maintained.

Conservation Education: Decide What to Plant

To get started, landowners should educate themselves on native plant species and avoid planting harmful invasive species. Resources such as the Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF) and The Nature Conservancy in Alabama offer valuable guidance on identifying and cultivating native species.

Understanding what’s safe to plant and how to manage your land is crucial to conservation efforts. Thomas Reddick, a conservation advocate, believes education is one of the most powerful tools to protect Alabama’s landscape. “Whether you’re managing acres of land or just your own backyard, it’s important to understand what’s safe to plant,” he says.

How To Make a Difference: Follow These Simple Steps

Even if you don’t own vast stretches of land, there are still simple yet impactful steps you can take to contribute to Alabama’s conservation efforts:

• Plant Native Species: Replace invasive plants with native flowers, shrubs, and trees that support local wildlife.
• Support Pollinators: Create a pollinator-friendly garden with wildflowers and avoid using harmful pesticides.
• Reduce Lawn Size: Lawns require significant water and maintenance. Convert portions of your yard into natural habitats.
• Provide Water Sources: Birds, bees, and butterflies all benefit from a clean water source in your yard.
• Get Involved: Volunteer your time with local conservation groups, habitat restoration projects, or follow conservationists, like The Native Habitat Project, on social media to stay informed.
• Advocate for Conservation: Contact your elected officials and advocate for policies that protect the environment.

 

 Long-Term Conservation: Protect Future Generations

Alabama’s natural beauty is worth protecting—and conservation begins with individual action. By restoring native habitats, educating ourselves, and making small changes in our own backyards, we can help ensure that Alabama truly remains Alabama the Beautiful, and a haven for its people, for generations to come.

For more conservation tips and resources, visit the Alabama Wildlife Federation and The Nature Conservancy in Alabama.