What are some effective ways to promote biodiversity in site design?

2 Apply landscape ecology principles

The second step to promote biodiversity in site design is to apply landscape ecology principles that guide the spatial arrangement and management of the site elements. This includes protecting and restoring existing natural features, such as wetlands, woodlands, or grasslands, that provide valuable habitat and ecosystem services. Additionally, creating and enhancing green infrastructure, such as green roofs, rain gardens, or bioswales can increase permeability, infiltration, and evapotranspiration. Furthermore, it is important to design for connectivity and diversity by linking different habitat patches, corridors, and edges while providing a variety of microclimates, structures, and resources for different species. Lastly, managing for disturbance and succession requires incorporating adaptive and dynamic approaches that respond to changing environmental conditions and ecological processes.

3 Integrate native and adaptive plants

The third step to promote biodiversity in site design is to integrate native and adaptive plants that are suited to the local climate, soil, and hydrology. Native and adaptive plants can support more wildlife, especially pollinators, than exotic or invasive plants. They can also reduce the need for irrigation, fertilization, and pesticide use, which can harm biodiversity and water quality. You can use resources such as the USDA Plant Database or the Native Plant Finder to select plants that are appropriate for your site and region. You can also consult with local experts, such as botanists, ecologists, or extension agents, to get recommendations and advice.

4 Incorporate wildlife-friendly features

The fourth step to promote biodiversity in site design is to incorporate wildlife-friendly features that provide shelter, food, water, and breeding opportunities for different species. These features can include nesting boxes, birdhouses, bat boxes, or bee hotels that offer safe and suitable places for animals to raise their young. Bird feeders, bird baths, butterfly feeders, or hummingbird feeders can supplement the natural food sources for birds and insects. Water features like ponds, fountains, or birdbaths can attract and sustain wildlife in dry or urban areas. Additionally, rocks, logs, brush piles, or dead wood create hiding and foraging spots for reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals.

5 Implement sustainable maintenance practices

The fifth step to promote biodiversity in site design is to implement sustainable maintenance practices that minimize the negative impacts of human activities on the site and its surroundings. For instance, reducing mowing, pruning, or trimming frequency and intensity can allow plants to grow naturally and provide more habitat and food for wildlife. Additionally, it's important to avoid or minimize the use of chemicals, such as herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers, that can harm biodiversity and water quality. Organic or integrated pest management strategies should be implemented, such as using biological controls, cultural practices, or mechanical methods, to prevent and control pests and diseases. Furthermore, composting or mulching organic waste, such as leaves, grass clippings, or branches is a great way to enrich the soil and reduce landfill waste.

6 Engage and educate stakeholders

The sixth and final step to promote biodiversity in site design is to engage and educate stakeholders, such as clients, users, managers, or regulators, about the importance and benefits of biodiversity. You can do this by providing signage, labels, or brochures that explain the biodiversity features and functions of the site and how to interact with them. Additionally, organizing tours, workshops, or events that showcase the biodiversity aspects of the site and offer opportunities for learning and participation can be beneficial. Furthermore, creating partnerships, networks, or alliances that foster collaboration and communication among different stakeholders and promote shared goals and values is a great way to engage stakeholders.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?