BENTON COUNTY, Ore. — In neighborhoods across Benton County, a quiet transformation is taking root — one that can begin with as little as 50 square feet of soil and a willingness to try something new.
A new program called Nature Neighbors, launched through a partnership between Greenbelt Land Trust and the Benton Soil and Water Conservation District, aims to help residents turn everyday outdoor spaces into thriving habitat for pollinators, birds and other wildlife.
Through hands-on guidance, small grants and community support, the initiative encourages people to make meaningful environmental changes at home — regardless of property size.
For Sara Roberts, the program is both a professional effort and a personal mission. As a community engagement coordinator with the district, Roberts leads outreach that includes public programs, K-12 field trips and individualized support for property owners.
“People don’t need a large property to make a difference,” Roberts said. “This program shows that even a small plot can create valuable habitat connections across neighborhoods and, ultimately, larger-scale wildlife corridors.”
Program leaders say the effort reflects a broader regional vision to better connect people, land and wildlife.
“Greenbelt Land Trust is co-launching Nature Neighbors with the Benton Soil and Water Conservation District, a demonstration of the strong partnership between these two organizations that goes back decades,” said Jessica McDonald. “By jointly stewarding this emerging community program, we are leveraging the strengths of both organizations and building a program that is lasting.”
McDonald emphasized that even small-scale efforts can have ripple effects across entire communities.
“Even a small native habitat can make a big difference for wildlife,” she said. “By transforming urban spaces, even micro yards, into flourishing mini native habitats, we are creating habitat stepping stones that traverse our communities, enabling wildlife to move, adapt and thrive.”
The Nature Neighbors program focuses on replacing invasive plants with native species, improving soil health and creating landscapes that are more resilient to drought and wildfire. Participants follow a step-by-step certification process that includes site visits, a habitat handbook and personalized recommendations. Those who complete the program receive a yard sign recognizing their contribution to local habitat restoration.
Beyond planting, residents are encouraged to incorporate features such as birdhouses, water sources and pollinator-friendly elements to further support wildlife.
Accessibility is also central to the program. Mini scholarships and small grants are available to help offset costs for plants and tools. Volunteers — including students from Oregon State University — can assist with installation and maintenance, helping older adults and others who may need extra support.
Roberts said the idea has been years in the making.
“When I first got into native plant gardening, there just wasn’t much support,” she said. “I remember doing all the research on my own and wishing something like this existed.”
Michael Ahr said the program expands the district’s conservation work to reach more residents.
“We’ve spent a lot of time working with private landowners on larger properties,” Ahr said. “Nature Neighbors gives us a chance to engage smaller property owners in that same work, especially when it comes to controlling non-native species and improving habitat. When more property owners take part, the benefits add up across the community.”
The initiative builds on similar programs across Oregon, including the Backyard Habitat Certification Program in the Portland metro area and related efforts in Marion, Polk, Lane and Yamhill counties.
For Jennifer Brown, the program aligns with broader county sustainability goals.
“The Nature Neighbors program helps people preserve and create habitat for pollinators, birds and other wildlife,” Brown said. “This program gives community members a meaningful way to make a difference.”
Officials say the benefits extend beyond individual yards, supporting stormwater management, biodiversity and climate resilience across the county.
“It’s going to take us all to preserve what we have,” Brown added.
Residents interested in participating can learn more and enroll through the Nature Neighbors website. A public information session scheduled for April 29 will provide an opportunity to explore the program and connect with organizers.
As participation grows, organizers say the vision is simple: a network of small, intentional spaces working together to create healthier ecosystems — starting right outside the front door.
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