Certification Requirements
Basic Requirements
Nature Neighbors certification criteria ensure that your habitat is resilient, diverse, and a reliable wildlife haven for many years to come.
- Your site is within Benton County, Oregon
- Your habitat area is at least 50 square feet (this can include garden beds and other containers)
- You have enrolled as a Nature Neighbors habitat steward
- You perform the minimum required number of actions (BELOW) for each program area (Native Plants, Invasive Plants, Soil, Water, and Wildlife)
- You welcome program staff to your site at least twice: one for the initial visit, and again to confirm you have completed all certification requirements.
Remove Invasive Species
Remove ALL of the following key invasive plants within your habitat area. Removal must be done without herbicides unless recommended by your Site Technician.
Invasives to Remove:
- Ivy
- Blackberry
- Lesser Celandine
- Italian Arum
- Bindweed
- Knapweed
- Shiny Geranium
- Herb Robert
- Japanese Knotweed
- Thistle
- Oblong Spurge*
- Garlic Mustard*
* If found, please report to us!
Protect Soil
Complete at least THREE soil conservation actions. These actions foster micro-organisms, build soil quality, and prevent erosion.
Soil Conservation Actions:
Conserve Water
Complete at least THREE water conservation actions. These actions save water, improve water quality, and increase drought resilience.
Water Conservation Actions:
Support Wildlife
Complete at least FOUR actions to support wildlife survival and habitat.
Wildlife Support Actions:
Download and print this checklist
Download and print this checklist at the link below! You’ll also receive a copy in your Habitat Stewards Guide at your first site visit.
