In 2023, with the help of a Friends of NACD Grant, Oklahoma County Conservation District (OKCCD) spearheaded two impactful projects aimed at promoting sustainable practices and fostering environmental stewardship within the community.

The first initiative involved organizing a series of five educational workshops conducted across various locations in Oklahoma City. These workshops focused on disseminating knowledge about sustainable landscape practices, covering topics such as soil health improvement, wildlife-friendly planting techniques, water conservation strategies, and small-scale agriculture. By providing practical guidance and hands-on demonstrations, each workshop empowered homeowners to implement eco-friendly practices on their properties. Moreover, these workshops served as invaluable platforms for fostering community engagement and building partnerships with new stakeholders, expanding the reach and impact of the conservation district’s efforts across the city.

The second project, aptly titled “Sowing Seed for Stewardship,” allocated mini grants to support 13 conservation projects throughout Oklahoma County. These projects aimed to promote the planting of native species and enhance biodiversity in both public and private spaces. In the bustling Plaza District, the program funded the replacement of non-native plants with drought-tolerant native species in planter boxes, contributing to the creation of a more resilient and ecologically sustainable urban landscape. Other initiatives used native plants to stabilize berms, prevent erosion, and enhance habitat value on urban and suburban agricultural sites.

Both initiatives directly contribute to on-the-ground conservation efforts, fostering a deeper connection between residents and their local ecosystems. Collectively, these projects support the objectives of the Yard-by-Yard Community Resilience Project, an eco-friendly landscaping certification program initiated by OKCCD that has since been adopted statewide. In promoting the adoption of sustainable landscaping practices, these initiatives played a pivotal role in driving a remarkable 208% increase in “Yard by Yard” participation in Oklahoma County.

This grassroots work illustrates the Oklahoma County Conservation District’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability, fostering community engagement, and advancing conservation efforts across urban landscapes. Through targeted education, strategic partnerships, and hands-on initiatives, the district continues to empower residents to become stewards of their local environment, contributing to a healthier and more resilient future for Oklahoma City and beyond.