Backyard Habitat program celebrates 20 years and reports local environmental benefits

Summary

Program managers said the Backyard Habitat certification effort has enrolled more than 100 participants in Tualatin, certified 26 sites in 2025 and equivalent regionwide habitat equals roughly 5.3 million square feet with more than $5 million in calculated environmental benefits, according to an Earth Economics study.

A program manager for the Backyard Habitat certification program, co-managed by the Bird Alliance of Oregon and Columbia Land Trust, presented the programs 20th-anniversary report to the council on Feb. 9. The presentation summarized local participation and regional metrics compiled by Earth Economics.

The presenter said the program has been operating in Tualatin since 2019 and that in 2025 the city had more than 100 participants, 20 site assessments and 26 certifications. Regional analysis by Earth Economics attributed more than $5,000,000 in environmental benefits to program participants (a mix of stormwater management, carbon sequestration and other ecosystem services). The presenter highlighted outreach with Tualatin High School students and local volunteer contributions.

Councilors thanked the program for community engagement; staff noted the program is available to residents on a sliding-fee basis and provides site visits and certification support.

What happens next: The program will continue outreach, host open-garden events and work with schools and community partners; no formal council action was requested or taken at the Feb. 9 meeting.