WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – June 23, 2015 – The National Wildlife Federation® (NWF) hasrecognized Edgewater, a WesleyLife community in West Des Moines, for successfully creating an official Certified Wildlife Habitat™ site. Edgewater created 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.
Certification also makes Edgewater part of the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge, a national effort to restore critical habitat for pollinators in peril.
“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,” says David Mizejewski, a naturalist with the National Wildlife Federation.
“This habitat was such an impactful project for our community. Through the partnership of our residents and our team members, they developed a beautiful space for wildlife to thrive for years to come,” says Edgewater Executive Director Janet Simpson. “We’re honored to receive this certification.”
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. 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.
For more information on Edgewater, please visit wesleylife.org. To learn more about gardening for wildlife and details on the certification process, visit the National Wildlife Federation. The mission of the National Wildlife Federation is to inspire Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future.