BRIEF DESCRIPTION:  

The concept is to assist Churches, Schools, Businesses, and Individuals with establishing wildlife habitats on their grounds.  

  The program, "Fellowship Actions Improving The Habitat," or FAITH, is a non-denominational initiative designed to recognize and certify places of worship that meet certain requirements for a wildlife-friendly habitat.

This program is designed to encourage ongoing stewardship of our wildlife and wild places in urban, suburban, and rural settings. Just think about how many churches and other faith-based groups there are in North Carolina. By reaching out to these church communities, we can spread this message of stewardship, awareness and appreciation of wildlife and our state's resources while helping these groups create beautiful and peaceful habitats.

For Schools having an Outdoor Classroom would be a great idea for Science/Biology Class.  Turning your school grounds into a National Wildlife Federation certified Schoolyard Habitats® site is easy, rewarding and fun! Your new site will provide outdoor learning opportunities that are: interdisciplinary, standards-based, hands-on, and inexpensive.

In fact, your Schoolyard Habitats® site will not only provide inspiration for learning among students, educators and the community, but will become an important part of your local ecosystem providing essential habitat for wildlife.

   The WAIT (Wildlife and Industry Together) program works to convert areas of an industry’s manicured grounds into habitat for native plants and wildlife. This partnership program involves businesses, conservation organizations, and community and youth organizations. The two primary goals of the program are to (1) establish more protected and enhanced native wildlife habitats, and (2) provide a wildlife educational resource for the entire community.

WAIT provides corporate landowners and their employees with a framework for integrating wildlife habitat needs into corporate land management decisions. Employees, facility neighbors and community groups plan and execute specific habitat projects in partnership with the industry and each other.

Turn your backyard into a wildlife-friendly yard and enjoy attracting birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. This is a fun way to enjoy nature in your own yard or garden. Imagine your garden teeming with singing birds, colorful butterflies and beautiful plants and water features that attract wildlife. It's easier than you think and we can help you make it happen.

Anyone interested or wanting additional information regarding the establishment of "Wildlife Habitats" is encouraged to contact Julie Higgie at jchiggie@yahoo.com.