You've probably heard a lot of talk about protecting the environment. How
does protecting the environment benefit you? In more ways than you might think. Besides
preserving open space and Biodiversity, protecting plants, animals, and ecosystems
on your property can increase its value and save you money.
Strong selling and buying points for a property are privacy, heating and cooling
costs and landscaping. Preserving or restoring the ecological integrity
of the site can save you money or increase the value of your property. Consider that a treeless or de-vegetated lot or home
site is much more vulnerable to wind and sun. This results in increased heating
and cooling costs. There is also a lack of privacy. New landscaping is expensive and often done with non-native trees and shrubs. These plants require more water and care than native plants, and are often more prone to insect and disease problems. Think of how much work
a lawn is. Non-native plants also offer little
in the way of habitat or wildlife value. Some even create problems by disrupting surrounding ecosystems. Native plants
by contrast are already adapted to your climate, and grow without pampering. By
preserving mature stands of native trees, shrubs and perennials you can reduce the size of areas that will need to be seeded as lawn and mowed. This can save the contractor
money, and the homeowner time, while adding to the value of the property. These
low maintenance areas also provide privacy for people , and important habitat
for birds , butterflies and small mammals. These plants and natural areas provide
food, shelter and nesting sites.
Wild areas are rapidly disappearing. Open space and environmental conservation are important to the majority of Americans.
Almost 70% of Americans like to feed and observe birds and other wildlife. Many
of us have fast paced hectic lifestyles that are the source of our stress. Watching wildlife and cultivating plants also
helps reduce stress levels and helps us to reconnect to the natural world that we are a part of. So whether
you're buying, building or developing, consider the benefits of preserving or restoring the ecology of the site:
Preserves Habitat for Plants and Animals
Increases the Value of your Property
Saves Money on Heating , Cooling and
Landscaping
Low Maintenance
Provides Privacy
Reduces Stress
