Sharon Park HOA, Menlo Park ~ Certified New Wildlife Habitat by The National Wildlife Federation

The National Wildlife Federation® (NWF) is pleased to recognize that Gachina Landscape Management in Menlo Park, California has successfully created an official Certified Wildlife Habitat™site at Sharon Park Homeowners Association. NWF celebrates the efforts of Gachina Landscape Management in partnership with the Sharon Park HOA Board, to create a garden space that improves habitat for birds, butterflies, frogs and other wildlife by providing essential elements needed by all wildlife – natural food sources, clean water, cover and places to raise young. This is Gachina’s second certified wildlife habitat – the first being Gachina’s organic demonstration garden, aka The Farm, in Menlo Park as well.

“We are trying to create a landscape with purpose” said Dan Kocher, Sharon Park HOA Board member. “Redesigning our large common area lawn into a colorful, inviting area for wildlife not only gives residents more of a reason to stroll through its paths but also it represents a teaching tool for their families and guests.”

NWF’s Certified Wildlife Habitat program has been helping people take personal action on behalf of wildlife for more than 40 years. The program engages homeowners, businesses, schools, churches, parks and other institutions that want to make their communities wildlife friendly.

“Sharon Park HOA’s habitat is an inviting place for our resident and migrating wildlife,” explains Cristina Prevarin, Sustainable Landscape Manager at Gachina. “We converted a large lawn area to a drought tolerant landscape. Throughout the year, multiple plants will bloom at different times and in a variety of colors. Flowering trees will provide a feast for pollinators. A bounty of evergreen plants will provide foliage, nectar, pollen, berries, and seeds for squirrels, butterflies, hummingbirds, blue jays and other birds. Birdbaths and extra feeders are strategically positioned and replenished to provide an extra water and food source to insects and birds. All around the newly planted section, the established landscape will represent the perfect shelter to raise their young. In order to maintain a natural balance of the wildlife, herbicides and pesticides applications are not implemented in this area. “Providing a home for wildlife in our communities – whether it’s at home, or in schools, businesses, or parks – is the demonstration of a healthy and active eco-system. There is no more rewarding way to stay connected to nature right outside your door,” said David Mizejewski, naturalist with the National Wildlife Federation.

This new certified habitat joins NWF’s roll of more than 150,000 certified habitats nationwide. Wildlife habitats are important to year-round wildlife residents as well as species that migrate, such as some birds and butterflies. Each habitat is unique for both beauty and function. The mission of the National Wildlife Federation is to inspire Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future.

For more information on gardening for wildlife and details on how an entire community or place of business can become certified, please visit our website or contact Cristina Prevarin at cprevarin@gachina.com or 650-924-3032.