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Learn more. Knowledge is power. The more we know about the causes, consequences and (most particularly) mitigation of biodiversity loss, the more power we will have when we choose to act. This knowledge will make those actions more efficient and focused too. Read Ontario's Biodiversity Strategy (OBS), and A Biodiversity Primer for Ontario. Some particularly good links are provided under Information Tools.

Planting a tree in your own backyard can be a satisfying experience. It will enhance your property and provide a home to several species.

Tell others. As we learn more about biodiversity, we need to let others know that biodiversity conservation is a cause worth supporting. We can discuss it among groups we belong to, even if they are not environmentally oriented. We can write letters or emails to editors and others in positions of influence.

Create and maintain habitat for wildlife on your property — plant a butterfly or wildflower garden with native plants, plant native trees, maintain brush piles, or maintain a natural shoreline along lakes and rivers. Get started by checking out the information at the following links: www.wildaboutgardening.org or www.cwf-fcf.org.

Reduce your Ecological Footprint. We all do things that directly or indirectly affect biodiversity and put pressure on our natural systems. Reduce the pressure by:

1. Being aware of Species at Risk and how to protect their populations or habitat. For more information, check out the MNR's Species at Risk website.
2. Becoming knowledgeable of Invasive Species and acting to limit their spread. For more information, check out a website on invasive species at www.invadingspecies.com.
3. Avoiding use of low-lying rural roads during and immediately after a rainstorm — frogs may be on the move!
4. Avoiding pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers.
5. Buying locally grown food whenever possible.
6. Reducing energy use in your home, vehicles and at your work.
7. Fishing and hunting in a safe, ethical and legal manner. For more information review Ontario’s fishing and hunting regulations summaries on MNR's Publication List.
8. Checking out The Land Owner Resource Centre Website which has downloadable extension notes covering a variety of topics for landowners: www.lrconline.com/Extension_Notes_English/index.html
9. Reading more specific, wildlife-related tips at: www.biodiversity911.org/wildlife_trade/pdfs/trade_actions.pdf (PDF).
10. Visiting World Wildlife Fund's compendium of actions related to wildlife trade, landscaping and soils, forests, fisheries, toxics and climate change at: www.biodiversity911.org.
11. Obtaining more specific footprint reduction tips at: www.canadianliving.com.

Influence politicians. Let politicians at all levels know that biodiversity conservation and wise resource use are critical issues that the government needs to do more about.

Photography
Todd Irvine