Optional Criteria 6: Other Conservation Practices

There are many other things you can do to help wildlife on your landscape, such as avoiding lighting areas at night, which confuse nighttime insects and migrating birds, and keeping pets indoors or under control so they do not kill wildlife. Reducing sound can also be important as birds and other species communicate with sound. It is also possible to conserve energy through thoughtful planting, building construction and siting. If you are harvesting wood, our Forested Lands Checklist dedicates Criteria 6 to harvest practices that support healthy ecosystems. There are many vital practices that can make a tremendous difference in your woodland ecosystem as well as adding recreational value to your landscape.

Optional Criteria 7: Steward or Create Woodland Areas

For forested lands where you are actively harvesting, this criteria is required. For mixed-use properties, these practices are optional but important. The Maine Forest Service (or similar agency in your state) has information on many valuable practices you can implement. Our recommended guides for Criteria 7, Focus Species Forestry and Biodiversity in the Forests of Maine provide many excellent ideas for woodland management.

Resources

Conservation Landscape Certification Resource Guide
Links to Online Resources
Recommended Books