A Backyard in Huntingburg Is Now Nationally Recognized
National Wildlife Federation has officially certified a brand-new wildlife habitat right here in Huntingburg — and it all started with one local resident’s vision.
Tessa Muldoon recently had her garden recognized through the Federation’s Garden for Wildlife® program, with co-certification from the Indiana Wildlife Federation. But this isn’t just a backyard full of flowers. It’s a thoughtfully designed space created to support birds, butterflies, bees, and other wildlife — while also being welcoming and accessible for people.
Beauty With a Purpose
Muldoon says she built the space with the belief that beauty itself can be a form of advocacy. Instead of conservation feeling distant or “clinical,” she wanted to show that protecting wildlife can feel warm, creative, and inviting.
Her Certified Wildlife Habitat includes pollinator-friendly plants, shallow water features safe for birds and butterflies, and artistic elements woven into the design. It’s pesticide-free and focused on native plants — all things that help create a healthier local ecosystem.
And this is part of something much bigger. For more than 45 years, the National Wildlife Federation’s Garden for Wildlife movement has certified over 227,000 habitats across the country, totaling more than 2.5 million acres dedicated to supporting wildlife.
A Garden That Gives Back
Muldoon’s vision doesn’t stop there. As the growing season continues, she plans to expand the space into a small community resource. Think free wildflower seeds, plant starts, and garden extras offered through a simple self-serve stand — available to anyone, with optional pay-what-you-can donations.
It’s rooted in generosity, education, and shared care for the environment.
And it’s happening right here in Huntingburg — proof that you don’t need acres of land to make a difference. Sometimes, it just starts in your own backyard.
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