It's not too early to plan for spring

Now is the time to start planning your backyard for the upcoming year. Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District's 2004 Tree & Shrub program offers more than 50 species of bare-root trees, shrubs, groundcovers, wildflower/grass seed mixes and many related planting materials to help landowners promote backyard wildlife habitat and conservation.

Benefits to wildlife can come from small spaces as well as large. Wildlife habitat practices in residential lawns can help increase food and shelter for birds, butterflies and many other animals. Also these practices can inspire a stewardship ethic, control soil erosion, conserve water, improve water quality, and beautify the landscape of your neighborhood. Whether you have acres in the country, an average-sized suburban lot, or a tiny plot in the city, you can help protect the environment and make your surroundings interesting and attractive.

Order forms are available from the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation online at www.monroecountyswcd.org, in the office at 249 Highland Avenue, Rochester, or by calling (585) 473-2120. Ordering deadline is March 22.