You don't have to travel to a rainforest or a coral reef to experience an ecosystem. You can find one right in your own backyard! Your backyard is an ecosystem, a community of living things interacting with each other and their physical environment. It may include plants, animals, insects, fungi, and microbes, all playing a role in the web of life.
Even a small backyard can provide habitat for a variety of species. By planting native plants, providing water sources, and avoiding the use of pesticides, you can create a backyard ecosystem that supports biodiversity and provides essential services.
What are some of the plants and animals you find in your backyard? How do these living things interact with each other? What can you do to make your backyard a more hospitable place for wildlife? Consider the importance of even small ecosystems and the role you can play in protecting biodiversity in your own community.
Use the online submission form when sending your articles to help us track all of your submissions. Please try to write about the above topic. Your response should be at least 1,000 words.
To receive credit, your effort is what matters. You should find ways to contribute thoughtful ideas that will help others. Feel free to use personal stories or other information that you want to share, but do not use real names or other identifying information. You may write your response in the space provided or upload your response. Once we review your response, you will receive credit.
