Mike and Shelley wanted their outdoor habitat to be an extension of their eco-friendly living area. They worked with the DC Government and the National Wildlife Federation to make their yard into a sustainable backyard habitat that helps reduce run off, conserves resources, attract wildlife, promotes native species, and uses organic gardening and lawn care practices.

• Patio materials: The patio is made up of permeable pavers that allow water to filter through instead of runoff. The VAST paver system is the first composite material in the world made almost entirely of recycled materials. Every 1,000 square feet of VAST Composite Pavers saves 500 scrap tires and 15,000 plastic bottles from landfills. The pavers are Manufactured with zero toxic or harmful emissions and zero waste.


• Deck: The deck is made from Trex, which is about 50% recycled and reclaimed plastic and 50% reclaimed wood – materials that would have likely been discarded in a landfill. And, Trex uses green manufacturing processes to make their product.


• Rain barrel: Courtesy of the DC Government’s River Smart Homes Program, Mike and Shelley set up a 100 gallon rain barrel to capture and store the rainwater running off their rooftop. The harvested rainwater is then used to water, through a drip irrigation hose, the couple’s
organic garden.


• Planting trees: Mike and Shelley have planted two native shade trees – a black Tupelo and a River Birch -- on their property in conjunction with Casey Trees, a non-profit that is working with the DC Government to grow DC’s tree canopy.


• Organic garden: this year's garden includes a variety of spices, three kinds of tomatoes, three kinds of peppers, cucumbers, onions, beans, and corn. Also, some plants and flowers were introduced into the garden for the purpose of integrated pest management and to attract bees and other pollinators.


• Yard maintenance: Yard maintenance is done both by a rechargeable electric mower, and a self powered push mower.


• Composting: In an urban environment, it is important to try to keep vermin at bay, so Mike and Shelley use an electric composter made by Nature Mill to compost scraps. This enclosed devise, which is kept outdoors, automatically mixes the scraps, breaking them down into nutrient rich compost.


• Creating a certified back yard habitat: Mike and Shelley worked with NWF to create a certified backyard habitat that attracts beautiful wildlife and helps restore habitat in urban areas. In addition to the organic garden, their urban habitat provides food, water, cover and a place for wildlife to raise their young.