Nature Neighbors Resource Library

Completing your Nature Neighbors Certification isn’t just be about checking boxes – the process is meant to be an educational and enjoyable one!

Use the information and resources found below to learn how you can create the best possible wildlife habitat. Even if you don’t plan to pursue Nature Neighbors certification, these tips and resources can help you become a great land steward.

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Add logs or branches to decompose in place

February 19, 2026 • Post • Naturescaping and design • Protect Soil

Believe it or not, that fallen branch that seems like an eyesore to you is prime real estate for MILLIONS of organisms! In a forest, a fallen log is often called a “nurse log” because it provides nutrients, moisture, and shelter for new seedlings and other plants, acting as a nursery for forest regeneration. The decomposing

Add cover crops to empty garden beds

February 19, 2026 • Post • Safe pest and weed control • Protect Soil

Adding cover crops to empty garden beds is one of the easiest, highest-impact steps you can take to improve soil health, reduce weeds, and support your future harvests.  Why Add Cover Crops to Empty Beds? 1. Prevent soil erosion and nutrient loss Bare soil loses nutrients to rain, wind, and sun. Cover crops act like

Create a compost bin or pile

February 19, 2026 • Post • Protect Soil

Compost is like a superfood for your garden soil — it’s decomposed organic matter that boosts soil health and plant growth in many important ways. Here’s why compost is so valuable: Compost can be used as a soil amendment, mulch, potting mix ingredient, a top-dressing for lawns, or for seed starting. You can also make

Create a vermiculture (worm) bin

February 19, 2026 • Post • Protect Soil

Vermiculture is the process of raising earthworms, primarily for use in vermicomposting, a method of composting organic waste using worms. It can also refer to the broader practice of worm farming for various purposes like bait or research. There are tons of great reasons to raise worms at home: how to create a vermiculture bin 1. Choose

Leave the leaves

February 19, 2026 • Post • Birds Bees and Other Pollinators • Protect Soil

A super-simple way to support wildlife and soil health at home is to simply leave fallen leaves and smaller branches where they fall. Less work for you + better habitat for wildlife = win-win! Here are some benefits of leaving fallen leaves on the ground: “But won’t the leaves smother my grass or other plants?”

Add wood chips or mulch between plants

February 19, 2026 • Post • Water Wise Gardening • Conserve Water

Mulch is a great way to add interest and suppress weeds in any garden! Here are just a few reasons to mulch: There are lots of types of mulch beyond wood chips. These can include compost, tree bark, straw, leaves, or other plant matter. Methods for applying wood chips or mulch: Choose the Right Material:

Need more Help?

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Nature Neighbors coordinator at sroberts@bentonswcd.org – 541-753-7208 x205. We’re here to help you succeed!

We also have an active and knowledgeable group of site stewards at our Nature Neighbors Facebook Group. Join us there!