Backyard Wildlife Habitat: Closing the Residential Wildlife Education Gap
Extension Education
Mallory Maher
Natural Resources Extension Associate
Clemson Extension
Pendleton
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 750 participants from 10 states, and 2 countries outside of the United States 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.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
Click to view Poster
Authors: Mallory Maher, Samantha Porzelt, Tancey Belken
-
Maher, M. Natural Resources Extension Associate , Clemson University, South Carolina, 29670
-
Porzelt, S. Water Resources Agent, Clemson Extension, South Carolina, 29401
-
Belken, T. Forestry and Wildlife Agent, Clemson University, South Carolina, 29505