By Mike Rhodes, Editor-in-Chief—
INDIANAPOLIS, IN—If you are a frequent viewer of MuncieJournal.com, you may remember many of the stories we’ve published about the work of the Red-tail Land Conservancy.
On Wednesday of this week, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) awarded a 2023 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence to Red-tail Land Conservancy during the annual Partners for Pollution Prevention Conference and Tradeshow in Indianapolis. “This is the highest environmental award in the state,” said Kelly Phillips, Communications and Outreach Manager for Red-tail.
“For nearly 30 years, the Governor’s Awards for Environmental Excellence has recognized Indiana citizens, government agencies, businesses, organizations, and educational institutions for their efforts to positively impact Indiana’s environment,” said Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb.
Red-tail Land Conservancy won in the category of Environmental Education and Outreach for their Growing Home™ Habitat Certification program.
The Growing Home™ is a community-driven conservation program that brings birds, bees, and butterflies to east central Indiana. This program educates, encourages, and empowers community members to transform their yard or garden into a habitat that attracts and supports wildlife.
Requirements for a Growing Home Certification include having two sources of food, one source of water, one source of cover, three species of native plants, two conservation practices, none of Indiana’s banned plants, and at least 50 square feet of garden area. Since Growing Home’s inception, 76 habitats have been certified in 12 cities across seven counties. Through the certification of homegrown habitats, Growing Home™ is creating a network of pocket nature preserves that beautify urban spaces and provide vibrant places for people and wildlife to thrive.
Related article below.
July 31st is Deadline for Submissions to Red-tail’s Growing Home™ Habitat Certification program
