By Sharon Bloudek, October 22, 2020
Since lockdown began last spring, we’ve walked around our quadrant of Portland more than ever before, leisurely strolls around our neighborhood, brisk walks for exercise, and more ambitious jaunts into adjacent neighborhoods that we haven’t ever taken the time to explore. Although I’ve seen the little “Backyard Habitat Certification” signs and placards here and there around Portland, it has been over the last 6 or 7 months, as we’ve walked the neighborhoods of southwest Portland, that they seem to be everywhere.
Curious, I went in search of more information and stumbled across a treasure trove of resources. Together with the Columbia Land Trust and Portland Audubon, the Backyard Habitat Certification Program supports urban gardeners in their efforts to create natural backyard habitats.
So what does this mean? The focus is make urban areas friendlier, healthier places for humans and wildlife alike, one garden at a time.
How is this done? The Backyard Habitat Certification Program guides homeowners in five key areas: elimination of noxious weeds, planting native plants and trees, reduction (or elimination!) in the use of pesticides, responsible management of storm water, and wildlife stewardship. A technician will first meet with you and do a careful walk-through of your property to assess your current landscape, gather information, and discuss your goals. Then, the technician uses this information to writes a comprehensive report that includes recommendations specific to your yard and goals.
How do I get started? You can begin the Backyard Habitat Certification Program process by enrolling here. You’ll pay a one-time $35 enrollment fee, and you’ll be placed on a waiting list for a site visit.
In the meantime, the Backyard Habitat Certification Program website is home to a wealth of resources, including their certification criteria and guides that will help you to identify and select native plants.
I was amazed to learn that there are over 6,000 backyard habitats in the greater Portland area! The programs is growing by leaps and bounds. Would you consider joining this program? I’d love to hear about your experience!
Sharon Bloudek
Principal Broker | OR
She/Her
Sharon is a Licensed Principal Broker in Oregon with 17 years of experience in the real estate industry. With a Business Degree in Marketing/Management from Loyola Marymount University, an MBA from the University of Oregon, and international business studies at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, Sharon brings a strategic and diverse perspective to her role.
Leading the #1 team at Living Room Realty alongside Beth Benner, Sharon has earned recognition in the top 1% of the RMLS and is a long-time member of PMAR's Masters Circle Diamond Platinum Level.
Sharon’s integrity, expertise, and commitment to excellence are what make her standout. She has served more than 450 homeowners over the years, leveraging her strong industry relationships and dedication to her clients to deliver exceptional results. Sharon is also an active participant in the local real estate investment scene, using her comprehensive market knowledge to inform her investment decisions.
Originally from Southern California, Sharon has called Portland home for 20 years. Beyond her real estate career, she has served as a Board Member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest, has a passion for pickleball, basketball, and softball, and enjoys a fulfilling family life with her three children.
Read More
- T: 503-701-1000
- sharon@bridgetoportland.com
