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Backyard Wildlife Habitat Short Course

Search for Excellence in Environmental Quality, Forestry and Natural Resources

Mallory Maher
Natural Resources Extension Associate
Clemson Extension
Pendleton

Team Members: Maher, M*1, Porzelt, S*2, Belken, T3, Hamilton, M4
  1. Natural Resources Extension Associate , Clemson Extension, Pendleton, South Carolina, 29670
  2. Water Resources Agent, Clemson Extenion, Charleston, South Carolina, 29401
  3. Forestry Wildlife Agent, Clemson Extension, Florence, South Carolina, 29505
  4. Director, Clemson Extension, Clemson, South Carolina, 29634

Abstract

The Backyard Wildlife Habitat Program, developed by Clemson Extension in collaboration with various partners, aims to educate homeowners on creating wildlife-friendly landscapes amidst South Carolina's rapid urbanization. The program's core objectives include promoting an understanding of wildlife needs and offering research-based guidance to enhance residential yards with food, shelter, water, and space for wildlife. It features an online self-paced course, a demonstration garden at the South Carolina Botanical Garden, a Native Plant Lecture Series, and additional resources to support wildlife-friendly practices. Since its launch, over 566 participants from South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia have engaged with the online course, which was developed in partnership with Clemson Extension and Clemson Online, with 84% of participants indicating their intention to adopt these practices. The demonstration garden, visited by 350,000 people annually, serves as a practical showcase of native plants and wildlife-enhancement techniques. Positive feedback and high quiz scores reflect the program's success in increasing participants' knowledge and fostering sustainable backyard habitats. Through these efforts, the program has contributed to a deeper connection between people and nature, aiding the preservation of South Carolina’s natural resources amidst growing development. The Backyard Wildlife Habitat Course was designed and created by Mallory Maher, Clemson Extension Natural Resources Extension Associate, along with Samantha Porzelt, Water Resources Agent in Charleston County, who also coordinated the Native Plant Series, and Tancey Belken, Forestry and Wildlife Agent in Florence County.  The demonstration garden was installed and designed by Dr. Martin Hamilton, Director of the South Carolina Botanical Gardens, his staff, and Mallory Maher. 

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