Natural Systems

Natural Systems
Our natural ecosystem provides a wide range of benefits including food, water, weather regulating processes, and a beautiful place for recreation and relaxation. Fayetteville is committed to protecting and restoring the natural resources in our community. We strive to improve outdoor air and water quality, protect biodiversity and native habitats, create resilient green infrastructure, and offer all citizens equitable access to healthy, beautiful natural spaces. 

Natural Systems 2019 Report Card

Natural Systems Report Card 2019

Current City Projects

Deer Browsing in Urban Park

Deer Management Efforts

The Animal Services Advisory Board is considering various deer management strategies for the City of Fayetteville. In Fayetteville, deer are contributing to a growing number of deer-vehicle collisions, Animal Services calls, property damage complaints, and other concerns. This presentation describes local deer impacts and explores what other cities have done to manage their deer populations.

Sidewalk lined with trees leads to a playground that is surrounded by trees

Urban Forestry

As representatives of the people of Fayetteville, the City’s Urban Forestry division focuses on providing an urban forest that is safe, healthy, diverse, and able to provide the greatest benefit to the people, wildlife, and environment of the City.

Three goats in a pasture in front of a fence

Urban Agriculture Ordinance

The Urban Agriculture Ordinance was adopted by City Council On March 18, 2014. This ordinance is an update and replacement of the previous "Animals and Fowl" ordinance and includes provisions for the keeping of fowl, bees and goats, and allows for limited sales of home produced products in residential areas.
Native Arkansas flowers

Invasive Species Removal and Native Plan Replacement

 
Whether it’s supporting pollinators like bees or providing unique beauty to our region, native habitat exists for a reason. Native species use less water to survive and provide all kinds of benefits to the local ecosystem. Check out our Invasive Species Brochure or the more in depth Invasive Species Educational Packet to learn about removal techniques, community resources, and native alternatives that can replace invasive species in Northwest Arkansas.
Example of a Sustainable Yard showing mulch base with native wildflowers and plants
Naturalistic Landscape Ordinance
The City of Fayetteville promotes the installation and maintenance of naturalistic landscapes because they reduce maintenance, conserve water, soil and other elements of the natural ecosystem and often eliminate the need or pesticides, fertilizers and other pollutants, promoting the City's overall goal of becoming increasingly sustainable.
Small creek and foliage lead to the Wilson Park small wooden castle

City Trails and Parks 

The City of Fayetteville is home to more than 50 miles of trails, 35 parks, 26 playgrounds and much more. Active transportation in Fayetteville is made possible by our network of trails, sidewalks, and on-street biking facilities. Visit our Parks, Gardens & Trails page to learn more about all that Fayetteville has to offer.
Monarch butterfly on a pink flower

Mayor's Monarch Pledge

Mayor Lioneld Jordan took the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge in November 2015. Monarch butterflies, iconic and important pollinators, have experienced population declined of 90 percent since 1990. Through the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge, municipalities commit to creating habitats and educating citizens on ways they can make a difference to help save the monarch butterfly. Check out Fayetteville's Monarch Brochure or find more information on the Mayor's Pledge on the NWF website.


Community Resources

Man in a red shirt working in an agricultural field

University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service

 
The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. With offices in all 75 counties, our faculty and staff provide educational programs and research-based information to the people of Arkansas. The Cooperative Extension Service hosts a wide variety of programs including farms & ranches, yards & homes, businesses & communities, environment & nature, and 4-H.
NWA Trails: The Natural Link

Northwest Arkansas Regional Trails

The Northwest Arkansas region is home to a wide variety of mountain bike and paved shared use trail systems. Check out the NWA Trails website to find the trail that is right for you!