Nature Lovers To Learn About Landscaping For Wildlife

The seminar, titled "Turn Your Property Into A Wildlife Oasis," is scheduled for Feb. 12-13, 2000, at the National Conservation Training Center near Shepherdstown, W.V. It will feature some of the top state, regional and national horticulture and wildlife experts, including Neil Diboll, owner of the Prairie Nursery, Westfield, Wisc.

Diboll will show participants the secrets of establishing wildflower meadows, plus butterfly and hummingbird gardens. Noted photojournalist and author of nine nature books, Connie Toops, Frederick, Md., will detail the natural history of bluebirds and show how to establish a nesting box trail. And, Dr. Thomas Barnes, Extension Wildlife Specialist, University of Kentucky, will talk about which wildlife species you can expect to attract and how.

Other topics include: Why Landscape For Wildlife, Components of A Wildlife Habitat, How To Select the Best Plants For Your Habitat, How To Maintain Trees & Shrubs In Your Habitat, How To Build Backyard Ponds and How To Do A Wildlife Habitat Plan.

"Once you discover the vast number of native trees, grasses, groundcovers, vines and wildflowers suited for the Mid-Atlantic area and realize that once they are established, they need no additional fertilizer, pesticides or water, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do this before," said Thomas D. Patrick, president of WindStar Wildlife Institute, a non-profit, conservation organization. "You'll learn how natural landscapes can create experiences that uplift your spirits, expand your vision, and invigorate your life. You and your family can make a difference by making your property more ‘wildlife friendly’ and help replace wildlife habitat lost to development," said Patrick.

Early Bird seminar registration is available if made by Jan. 1, 2000. Call 800-324-9044 or e-mail janet@windstar.org for more information and to register for the seminar.