My name is Katie Fisk, and my Journey to Backyard Biodiversity began far before I became a first-time homeowner in 2021. I have always had a passion for nature and all its flora and fauna, and so pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Biology from Colorado State University and a Master's Degree in Environmental Education and Interpretation from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. As an environmental educator for over 20 years, I would educate audiences on the importance of native plants, and couldn't wait to someday put these principles into practice at my own home.

 

When my husband and I bought our house in 2021, it was time to finally put that plan into action! Since that time, I have converted our traditional front lawn into a series of meadow beds, removed exotic invasive species, planted 5 species of native trees and 7 species of shrubs, and installed a 150 gallon pond (complete with more native plants of course). Today my humble 0.1 acre property is home to over 140 species of native plants. My favorite thing is to take "nature hikes" in my own yard to marvel at the diversity of birds, mammals, amphibians, insects, arachnids, and other invertebrates that now call it home. 

 

Now, my greatest passion is to take what I have learned from my experiences and inspire others to begin their own native garden journey. It doesn't matter what kind of budget you have or whether you rent or own, anyone can have a native garden and make a positive impact on the environment. Big or small, nature appreciates it all!