Four Simple Ways to Support Wildlife, Forests, and Water

Winter can feel like a quiet time outdoors. But, for our natural environment, it’s one of the most challenging seasons of the year. 

You may be tempted in this quiet period to “tidy up” your yard. Or perhaps you use a heavy hand when applying road salt to get through these cold months. However, small, thoughtful choices can make a meaningful difference.

Here are 4 simple tips you can follow to support birds, protect forests, and keep our waterways healthy this winter.

Tip # 1

It may be February — But You Can Still Help Birds 

Junco, also known as a snowbird, using a wood pile for shelter

Winter is a difficult season for wildlife and even small changes in how we manage our outdoor spaces can provide critical support. 

As food and shelter become scarce, birds rely heavily on what’s left behind in our yards and neighborhoods - if it’s still standing, it’s still helping!

Ways to help birds through the winter:

• Avoid cutting back or “cleaning up” gardens until spring

• Leave dried/dead plants and seed-heads standing - they’re a natural food source

• Leave brush piles alone and let fallen leaves remain under shrubs for shelter

• Keep bird feeders clean and stocked, especially during cold snaps

  
  

Did you know that Black Capped Chickadees enjoy crushed peanuts, safflower, and black oil sunflower seeds? 

Tip # 2

Disposing of Holiday Greenery the Right Way

Although it may seem intuitive to put your trees/wreaths/garlands in the backyard for animals and birds to take refuge, this could pose a risk to you and your neighbors. Any invasive species or diseases lurking inside these evergreen decorations may find their way into our local ecosystem. 

To dispose of any remaining holiday greenery, remove all decorations and consider dropping off trees or wreaths at the Yarmouth Transfer Station. Burning your organic decor is not recommended - it poses a serious risk due to the high concentration of sap found in evergreens.

If you harvested your organic decor locally, are sure it does not have invasive pests or disease, and have the space, go ahead and chip or compost these greens in your backyard!

Tip # 3

Burn it Where You Bought It

Maine’s forests play an essential role in both the state’s economy and environment. Each year, roughly 12 million tons of wood is harvested, with firewood and wood pellets representing a modest portion of that total. About 10% of Maine households rely on wood as their primary heat source. Maintaining these forested landscapes responsibly is especially important as their long-term health is critical.

Many invasive forest pests threatening Maine’s forests target hardwood trees such as oaks, maples, and ash - species commonly used for firewood.

To help protect Maine’s forests:

• Buy and burn firewood locally 

• Avoid transporting firewood long distances/across state lines - 10 miles or less

This simple practice reduces the spread of invasive species, helping to keep our forests healthy. To learn more, visit Maine Forest Service or the Cumberland County Soil and Water Conservation District's guide to invasive forest pests.

Tip # 4

Safe and Smart Salting

Although salt and de-icers help keep us safe throughout winter, they can seriously impact waterways, wetlands, and…our drinking water. Once salt dissolves, stormwater and snow melt can carry it into drains, nearby bodies of water, and soil which can lead to fresh water salination and potentially cause harm. 

Salting Tips

• Pre-treat before forecasted storms to keep ice from bonding to the pavement

• Forget to pre-treat? Shovel first, then apply salt or sand* - only as needed

• Scatter lightly - a 12-oz cup of salt can treat 10 sidewalk squares or a 20-ft driveway

• Remember that salt loses it efficiency under 15°F 

*Sand provides a watershed friendly alternative to salt or chemical de-icer as it provides traction on the ice. You can also use bird seed in the same way! Now, that’s what I call a two for one deal. 

Tips and info in this post from The Cumberland County Soil & Water Conservation District 

Learn More

Interested in learning more about invasive species threatening our forests? Check out this resource from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry.