How to turn your Indianapolis yard into a mini wildlife haven

A grassroots effort is helping Indianapolis properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.

INDYtoday: INDY_Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park Newfields hike_MAY25

Catch a glimpse of the Lilly House as you explore the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park.

Photo by INDYtoday team

Want more from your lawn than just grass? You could turn it into a mini “national park.”

Meet Homegrown National Park, a nationwide grassroots movement that invites property owners to restore wildlife habitats through sustainable planting and the removal of invasive species.

Here’s how it works: Swap a portion of your lawn for native plants that support food webs for local fauna, then watch your yard transform into a natural oasis where wildlife thrives.

Registered habitats are tracked on a digital biodiversity map, so you can see which Indy neighbors and orgs are pitching in — like Belmont Beach and the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park.

Ready to get started on your own turf? Learn how to register your green space and browse beginner-friendly planting tips.

More from INDYtoday
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Indianapolis has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
Here’s the deal — the flea market and vintage shopping scene is stellar in Indy.
You never know what Mother Nature is going to give us in Indy — so we’re taking a look at some of the biggest snowfalls in city history.
Get in the holiday spirit with these over-the-top themed pop-up bars.
Dining in Indy is always a fresh experience with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
Did you know the city and county provide interactive GIS maps of Indianapolis to connect you to resources and help you get to know your community?
Here’s how we think Santa’s stalwart friends would spend a well-deserved night off in the Circle City.
Google Year in Search is out — check out what Hoosiers were searching most this year (it might surprise you).
Whether you’re looking forward to Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Yule, here are some ways you can celebrate around town this year.
Avril Lavigne? Check. Keith Urban? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple-check this list and get your concert tickets before they sell out.