Backyard Habitat Certification Program

Create Habitat in Your Own Backyard!

Audubon Society of Portland, Columbia Land Trust, and Friends of Tryon Creek have teamed up to create a unique Backyard Habitat Certification Program. 

The Backyard Habitat Certification Program provides assistance and incentives to residents on lots less than one acre, within the cities of Portland and Lake Oswego, to restore native wildlife habitat in their backyards.  There are four program elements: removal of aggressive weeds, naturescaping with native plants, stormwater management and wildlife stewardship.

How does the Program Work?

- Get started by filling out our online Introduction Application.

- We will contact you within one week of receiving your application with more information about scheduling a site visit with a Backyard Habitat Technician. 

- The Site Visit will provide technical assistance to help you identify ways to enhance habitat in your yard. Following the visit, the technician will send a personalized Site Report which outlines the steps to certification discussed during your visit. A fee of $25 is due at  your site visit.

- You'll receive discounts and incentives for native plants and other materials to help you on your way. A monthly e-newsletter will keep you informed of local events, workshops, plant sales and other great resources.

- When your yard meets the criteria, we'll send a certification technician back  to give you the Certified Backyard Habitat sign! It generally takes homeowners 3 months to 1 year to get certified.

For more information about the Backyard Habitat Certification Program contact Nikkie West at nwest@audubonportland.org or 503-292-6855.