Habitat loss is the single most serious problem facing Kentucky wildlife today. Natural lands and farms are being converted into suburban developments at an ever-increasing rate. Maybe you already feed wild birds, put up nest boxes, or plant flowers for butterflies. If so, your actions have benefited wildlife.

As spring returns and you begin to look forward to spending time outdoors, why not consider the chance to enhance your backyard habitat with a backyard makeover? The non-profit Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation, in cooperation with the James C. Salato Wildlife Education Center, is raffling chances to win a $10,000 Backyard Makeover. The name of the lucky winner will be drawn on Earth Day, April 22.

A backyard makeover could include a water feature, deck, patio, lawn furniture or a grill – whatever $10,000 will buy. Installation comes with the prize package.

The focus, however, will be on landscaping with native plants, trees and wildflowers. The package could include non-native plants that provide habitat and are not detrimental to wildlife. The Backyard Makeover is open to all Kentucky residents and includes the Louisville and Cincinnati Metro Areas within the 812 and 513 area codes. Tickets are just $25 each.

The project itself will be televised on “Kentucky Afield” to further call attention to the needs of wildlife for food, water and cover – even in urban and suburban areas. All proceeds from the drawing will go to the Salato Wildlife Education Center.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation Web site at www.kentuckywildlife.com, stop by the Salato Center in Frankfort during business hours, or call 1-800-858-1549, ext. 4492.

The Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that works with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources to support the efforts of the Salato Wildlife Education Center, conservation education programs for Kentucky youth, and the acquisition of land and wetlands for wildlife habitat.

The Salato Center has a variety of native animals for the public to see, including a black bear, bobcats, elk, deer, bison, eagles, snakes and fish. The center has numerous indoor exhibits and miles of hiking trails open to the public. Fishing is available at two lakes. While some programs may require a registration fee, admission to the Salato Center is free.

Learn more about upcoming events at the Salato Center on the Internet at fw.ky.gov. The Salato Center, operated by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, is located at the department’s headquarters on U.S. 60 in Frankfort, 1.5 miles west of U.S. 127. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. The center is closed Sundays, Mondays and state holidays.