Microhabitats
Seeking Community Input on Urban Planting Projects to Benefit Wildlife
What is the problem?
The Skagit River area is our home. As more land is developed for buildings and roads, wild areas shrink and animals lose their food and shelter. It also traps them by taking away their travel corridors. Reducing natural areas also makes flooding, air pollution, and heat in our communities worse.
What can we do?
By planting native plants in small spaces around our cities- like traffic circles, roadsides, and shared community areas- we can help reconnect wildlife habitat and give pollinators, birds, and small animals a place to thrive. These plantings also help slow down and clean rainwater before it runs into our streets and waterways. They can also help clean the air, grow fruits, store carbon, and keep paved areas cooler.
How will we do it?
Our plan focuses on three things: planting native plants, planting shade trees, and improving how soil absorbs rainwater. We’d like your ideas on where and what to plant. The plantings can support species that the community cares most about by giving them food and shelter, as well as providing natural spaces for people to enjoy. We will choose plants that don't need much upkeep, so they can thrive for many years without a lot of extra work.