How Can I Help?

Saving Nature with Your Yard

By: Douglas W. Tallamy

Length: 10 hrs and 30 mins

Publisher's summary

In How Can I Help, Doug Tallamy—a New York Times bestselling author and the cofounder of the nonprofit Homegrown National Park—gives his expert answers to questions commonly asked over the course of his career as an environmental advocate. This must-read book provides readers with the next step in their ecological journey.

With the publication of Bringing Nature Home in 2009, Douglas Tallamy ushered in what is now considered one of the most important movements in gardening—the important role native plants play in attracting beneficial pollinators. With Nature’s Best Hope, Tallamy expanded his audience from gardeners to homeowners with a passionate advocacy that detailed how everyone with a yard can make a positive environmental impact.

In How Can I Help, Tallamy explores the questions commonly asked at his popular lectures, sharing compelling and actionable answers that will help listeners take the next step in their ecological journey. Topics range from ecology, evolution, biodiversity and conservation to restoration, native plants, invasive species, pest control, and supporting wildlife at home. Tallamy keenly understands that most people want to take part in conservation efforts but feel powerless to do so as an individual. But one person can make a difference and How Can I Help details exactly how. Whether by reducing your lawn, planting a few native species, or allowing leaves to sit untouched, you will be empowered to take the next step and join millions of other like-minded people to become the future of conservation.

©2025 Douglas W. Tallamy (P)2025 Timber Press

Critic reviews

“Tallamy is one of the most original and persuasive present-day authors on conservation.”—Edward O. Wilson, University Research Professor Emeritus, Harvard University

“Here is one area where individual action really can help make up for all that government fails to do: your backyard can provide the margin to keep species alive. Mow less, think more!”—Bill McKibben, author of Falter

"Doug Tallamy is the godfather of the native-plant movement.” —The Washington Post