The TurfMutt Foundation was launched in 2019 to encourage outdoor learning experiences and stewardship of our managed landscapes and green spaces for the benefit of all.

Before that, for a decade the TurfMutt program’s education and outreach helped introduce the concept that family yards are “beyond beautiful,” serving an important purpose to communities, families, pets, and wildlife. By educating citizens about sustainability and how our living landscapes have purpose, the TurfMutt Foundation is helping to create a greener, healthier quality of life for this and future generations. In short, managed landscapes can help “save the planet one yard at a time.”

In the era of “sheltering in place,” however, managed landscapes not only helped with our planet, but also helped by saving our sanity and our well-being.

“Backyarding,” the practice of moving indoor activities — from working in an office or classroom to dining and recreation — to the great outdoors, was born. And it’s a trend that’s here to stay.

“The TurfMutt Foundation was really ahead of the curve with our key messages, and we’ve doubled down on our efforts to remind everyone that getting outside — in your own backyard and community green spaces — is an important activity, now more than ever, for you, your family, and pets,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI and President of the TurfMutt Foundation. “We implore people to be responsible and abide by physical distancing measures, as long as it remains necessary, while enjoying the “safe space” of their yard and our community parks. But while that’s happening, nothing destresses like nature.”