Nature Preserve vs Housing Development

By Nicole Barker

Natural ElementsWildflowers….for butterflies and birds

Natural ElementsSnags (dead trees) important for birds and tree dwelling

mammals

Natural ElementsNesting boxes (Bluebirds, Wrens)

Natural ElementsPonds (for amphibians, fish, birds, aquatic

insects, aquatic plants)

Natural Elements Creek

Natural ElementsTREES….benefits are endless!

Diversity is key!

Design

• This nature preserve will be on a minimum of 20 acres of land.

• There will be a mix of open areas and forested to support a variety of wildlife.

• Ponds and creek provide habitat for wetland species.

• Wildflowers and shrubs provide food for many species.

Protection

• The preserve is in a rural agricultural area, which provides protection from human encroachment. It is set back from the road, to protect species from vehicular traffic. The trees and wetlands serve as filters for air and water pollutants.

Summary

• What is the value of land? It depends on who you ask. How much land should be preserved from development? Where is it healthier to live –in a housing development with very few natural elements or in an area where wildlife and people coexist peacefully? This nature preserve presented here is actually part of a single family residence.

Source

• These pictures were all taken by me at my house. It was called the Lenox Road Nature Preserve by the previous owners.