Even with these challenges, many critters choose Spring Lake as their home. Douglas squirrels are still common and exotics, such as English sparrows, still relatively rare. Lake residents often enjoy sightings of eagles, otters and turtles. Since I own a large wooded lot, I decided to participate in the Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary Program. In order to qualify, you need to provide food, water, cover, and nesting places for birds and other wildlife.
Native plants are always a welcome addition as well.
Rewards include a newsletter with information about planting for wildlife, reports on wildlife sightings and a sign to place in your yard. Thanks to Caren Adams, Spring Lake Monitor, for this article. Debra joined the team in February filling a vacancy created by Susan Kaufman. Debra is working on the lake monitoring annual report and will be working with local residents on specific projects at Cottage Lake, Lake Sawyer, and Lake Twelve. Prior to joining King County, Debra worked as an environmental consultant completing lake assessments and developing management plans.