There are many good reasons for leaving the leaves. By keeping fallen leaves on our properties rather than having them hauled away by landscapers or local governments, we can reduce our production of greenhouse gases and more.

Here is an executive summary of eco-friendly yard maintenance recommendations for fall: 1: Watch the pretty leaves flutter down from above. 2: Do as little as possible to disturb those leaves or the flower stalks.

Encouraging cavity nesting birds in suburban yards requires knowledge of birds and insects and how to support them. Larry Cartwright shared his knowledge with AAH Ambassadors in February.

Depending on where you live, you might start to notice a drop in temperature as the foliage from your shrubs and trees starts to change color. Cool breezes are also starting to pick up, leaving stray twigs and small branches on your lawn.

Many Audubon education and advocacy programs have been canceled or paused due to Covid-19. Fortunately, the Audubon at Home (AAH) program continues. Applicant numbers are down, but people who are proactive, enthusiastic and committed about attracting native wildlife to their yards continue to apply.

Although Audubon at Home has discontinued client visits, we encourage you to consult with us about how to create wildlife habitat.

In 2018, Reston became part of the worldwide Biophilic Cities Network. To help residents identify specific actions that will protect Reston's natural resources, Reston Association's Environmental Advisory Committee is now deploying a Reston Biophilic Pledge.