REWILD-FOSSILGUY.COM

About the Author: Jayson Kowinsky

I have a B.S. Degree in Physics and a Masters degree in Education and am an educator.

While my passion for paleontology inspired the creation of my main website, I am equally passionate about wildlife restoration. I began by transforming my own yard into a native plant habitat that now supports more butterflies, insects, birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles than the rest of my neighborhood combined.

I then expanded my efforts to another property in my neighborhood that went up for sale. It was once an illegal garbage dump. The site included about an acre of woodland that was dominated by invasive species. It also had a logged and bulldozed section that had become a large overgrown field of non-native plants, likely prepared for potential housing development. Through careful planning, I've started rewilding this property by creaing vernal pools for amphibians, expanding the woodland, creating a native meadow, removing invasives and restoring native biodiversity.

Additionally, I've taken on smaller properties, each of which I'm beginning to rewild. This hobby demands a significant investment of time and money, but I believe it is a worthwhile endeavor. The speed at which native species and biodiversity return after removing invasives and planting native species is nothing short of astonishing.

It's important to note that rewilding doesn't mean letting things grow out of hand or allowing your property to become overgrown and messy. True rewilding is a thoughtful process of removing non-native and invasive species and replacing them with native plants. This approach ensures a balanced, thriving ecosystem that supports local wildlife while maintaining a visually appealing landscape.

Also, any sized property can be rewild in some way. The creation of a small 5x5 square foot butterfly garden, planting a single grouping of native shrubs, or even the addition of a tiny wildlife bog can make a big difference.

Through my website, I hope to inspire and educate others about the importance of rewilding. Here, you'll find practical guidance on how to transform your property into a thriving habitat and discover the profound rewards this work can bring to you and the environment.

Enjoy!

Jayson Kowinsky