Hopewell Valley Earns National Wildlife Federation Community Certification

HOPEWELL, NJ — Hopewell Valley Gardens for Wildlife recently announced that it had achieved National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Community Wildlife Habitat certification —reaching the 225-point threshold required for the national designation.

The certification recognizes the community's commitment to creating and maintaining habitats that support local wildlife through the efforts of volunteers and residents.

In addition to promoting biodiversity, the designation helps Hopewell Valley earn Sustainable Jersey points and strengthens its eligibility for future grant opportunities.

A major part of the initiative involves certifying individual properties, including homes, schools, nature centers, and common areas.

To qualify as a Certified Wildlife Habitat, properties must provide five essential elements for wildlife: food, water, cover, places to raise young, and sustainable gardening or landscaping practices.

“Without a budget, we relied on persistence, community support, and teamwork to build
habitat where people live, learn, and gather,” Kirsi Bhasin, Community Leader Hopewell Valley Gardens for Wildlife, said.

“It’s been hard work—but it’s made a real difference."