Keeping Tennessee’s land and water healthy, one yard at a time.
— a yard that is in balance with the local environment for the benefit of both people and our ecosystem.
Tennessee Smart Yards is an Extension-led program that guides Tennesseans on practices they can apply in their outdoor spaces to create healthier, more ecologically-sound landscapes and communities. Nine principles of stewardship serve as the foundation for the program and are explored in online modules and practical workshops taught by UT-TSU Extension and water resource professionals.
You don’t have to be an expert gardener or landscaper to create a Tennessee Smart Yard. All it takes is a willingness to learn and a desire to take actions described in our TNSY Workbook. Maintaining a Tennessee Smart Yard provides natural functionality for homeowners through working with nature for the benefit of both. Learn why a “Smart Yard” is right for you and our environment.
– Coffee County Certifier
I have so, so loved learning how easy and accessible it is to be environmentally friendly and “smart” about our yard!
Knox County Master Gardeners Host “Smart Yards and Friends Festival” at the UT Gardens on Sept 16th, 9-noon.
Come join for info on native plants, rain barrels, worm composting, and how to start your path to a certified yard. Give aways and kids activities too!
Tennessee Smart Yards was developed through a partnership between the Tennessee Water Resource Research Center and UT-TSU Extension, with support from a 319 Nonpoint Source Program grant from the Tennessee Dept of Agriculture. Materials adapted from Florida Friendly Yards and Neighborhoods with permission.