.jpg) |
MENLO PARK, Calif. – The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is pleased to recognize that Gachina Landscape Management in Menlo Park, Calif. has successfully created an official Certified Wildlife Habitat site – The Gachina Farm. NWF celebrates the efforts of Gachina Landscape to create a garden space that improves habitat for birds, butterflies, frogs and other wildlife by providing essential elements needed by all wildlife – natural food sources, clean water, cover and places to raise young.
“Providing a home for wildlife in our communities – whether it’s at home, or in schools, businesses or parks – is the demonstration of a healthy and active eco-system. There is no more rewarding way to stay connected to nature right outside your door,” said David Mizejewski, naturalist with the National Wildlife Federation.
“I wanted to do my part to help” said John Gachina, president and owner. “Redesigning our construction yard to make it more inviting to wildlife not only gives me something to enjoy but it also represents a teaching tool to our employees and their families. Since our farm is completely organic, it came natural to recognize this area as a wildlife refuge. Bees, ladybugs, butterflies, several species of wild birds, squirrels, foxes and hummingbirds are a constant presence.”
NWF’s Certified Wildlife Habitat program has been helping people take personal action on behalf of wildlife for more than 40 years. The program engages homeowners, businesses, schools, churches, parks and other institutions that want to make their communities wildlife friendly.
This new certified habitat joins NWF’s roll of more than 150,000 certified habitats nationwide. Wildlife habitats are important to year-round wildlife residents as well as species that migrate, such as some birds and butterflies. Each habitat is unique for both beauty and function.
“The Gachina Farm’s habitat is an inviting place for our resident and migrating wildlife” says Sustainable Landscape Manager Cristina Prevarin. “We converted a 5,000 square feet area of abandoned land into an organic vegetable garden. Seasonal plants such as tomatoes, carrots, peppers, cauliflowers and broccoli are surrounded by fruit trees such as peaches and citruses. They provide foliage, nectar, pollen, berries, seeds and nuts for a variety of wildlife. Birdbaths and extra feeders are strategically positioned to provide an extra water and food source to insects and birds. The so called Farm provides seasonal vegetables and fruit to Gachina employees and our partner JobTrain’s culinary class. No chemicals or pesticides are used. Volunteers offer their support by hand weeding, planting new crops, harvesting, applying organic compost or beneficial predators.”
For more information on gardening for wildlife and details on how an entire community can become certified, visit www.nwf.org/habitat or call 1-800-822-9919.