Backyard Conservation

Why Practice Backyard Conservation?
The everyday decisions we make at home greatly affect our environment. Increased urbanization means more impervious surfaces and runoff and less wildlife habitat. Our water, soil, air, and wildlife depend on us for their protection and adopting conservation practices is one important way in which we can preserve the environment for future generations.

In this fast-paced world, we recognize that connecting back to nature is an excellent way to relieve stress and anxiety. By preserving the natural resources around our home, we can spend less time maintaining our yards and more time enjoying them.

View the BYC brochure

Free help and financial assistance is available!
Free site visits and technical assistance on how to incorporate the practices below is available. Financial assistance may also be available through cost share programs program to help you implement these strategies. Learn more about the conservation practices below and contact Claire Lane, Urban Conservationist, to set up your free site visit!

Awards and Recognition
District Showcase Award 2016 - Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts
Outstanding Individual of the Year 2016 - Claire Lane, Indiana Urban Forest Council
Exceptional Commitment to Conservation 2016 - White River Alliance
Green Light Award- Heartland BYC - Sustainable Indiana 2016

In the news
IndyStar - These landscaping plants are now illegal in Indiana (4.21.20)
National Association of Conservation Districts Quarterly Newsletter

Learn more about conservation practices:

Bioswales / Wet grass areas*

* coming soon

Streambank stabilization

What benefits does Backyard Conservation provide?

Provides substantial monetary and time savings compared to traditional lawn maintenance
Increases property values
Protects watersheds by providing filtration and reducing pollution from runoff
Attracts wildlife, providing food and cover
Provides integrated pest management
Connects communities with nature

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How do I get involved?

If you are interested in seeing what practices may work on your property, contact our office today! We will arrange a free site visit during which we can note any trouble areas, discuss your goals, and see what practices may work on your land. The SWCD will create a conservation plan with all the information you need to put your plan into action!

Other Helpful Resources:

Improving Public Perception of Native Plantings Handout
Maintenance and Fun Activities for your Prairie Booklet
Streambank Stabilization Booklet
Turf to Prairie Cost Savings Info
Your Yard Your Shrub Booklet - Homeowners Guide

Invasives
What's that weird plant? Identifying common invasives
Techniques for Invasive Plant Control
Restoring Native Shrubs after Controlling Invasives
Restoring Native Wildflowers after Controlling Invasives

Stormwater Credits/Rebate Programs

City of Carmel
Rain Barrel rebate program info
Rain garden & water quality practice rebates may be available. Contact the City of Carmel Stormwater Program for more info.

City of Fishers
Fishers Stormwater Info & Free Rain Barrel Pledge
Drainage and Water Quality Matching Grants

Click here to read the Spring 2018 BYC Newsletter

The mission of the Backyard Conservation Program is to provide technical and educational assistance to help urban landowners in Hamilton County implement conservation practices. These practices protect our soil, water, air, and wildlife while providing beauty and enjoyment for the homeowner and community