The Importance of Biodiversity for Nature Conservation

Now that the summer has arrived, it is important to consider eco-friendly habits in your backyard to reconnect fragmented habitats and promote local biodiversity.

• Incorporate different species and sizes of trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals to meet the needs of a great variety of organisms. The more diverse your garden is, the more you encourage biodiversity.
• Prioritize plants native to our region as they play a crucial role in the local ecosystem: they support a wide range of wildlife from insects and birds to small mammals by providing necessary food and shelter. Non-native plants do not share the same relationship with local species, supporting very few of them.
• Recycle perennials by letting them decompose in the ground or use natural fertilizers like compost, which augments biological activity in the soil. Grass lawns consume large amounts of water and support minimal biodiversity. Healthier alternatives include planting ground covers like clover and practising grassycling, which is the practice of leaving lawn clippings on the ground. These practices help to retain soil moisture and enrich it with nutrients and support local ecosystems.

You can make your backyard eco-friendly with the help of the City of Westmount’s Green Grant program. This program encourages Westmount residents to make sustainable purchases by reimbursing part of the purchase of items such as wildlife installations, rain barrels, domestic composters, sustainable yard equipment and much more. Residents who purchase eligible products and meet the general conditions may request a refund during the same calendar year by submitting the online form and providing supporting documents.