Protecting Biodiversity and Habitats in Urban Areas: Small Spaces, Big Impact

Earthwise Aware (EwA), a Boston-based nonprofit recognized for its long-term ecological participatory research program, science democratization, and strong field ethics, will connect data-driven insights with practical action.  Urban areas seem far removed from nature, but they harbor a surprising diversity of wildlife—if we make space for it.  This talk will explore how even the smallest gardens, balconies, and container plantings can become vital habitats for pollinators, birds, and other urban wildlife. Urban biodiversity can support ecosystem resilience. Small actions like planting native species, restoring habitat, and rethinking our approach to yard maintenance can have an outsize impact. Through real-world examples from Somerville and beyond, EwA will show how anyone can become a steward of urban nature, contributing to both scientific knowledge and conservation.

Claire O’Neill, President of Earthwise Aware (EwA), merges her scientific training in mathematical statistics, probability, and artificial intelligence with her expertise as a field naturalist and wildlife conservationist. As EwA’s founder, she is committed to advancing biodiversity conservation through ecological education, ethical science practices, and environmental leadership. Claire also co-chairs the Ethics Affinity Group of the Association for Advancing Participatory Sciences (AAPS), championing ethics in participatory ecology and conservation. She co-organizes the annual iNaturalist Greater Boston City Nature Challenge, co-chairs the Boston Biodiversity Consortium steering committee, and contributes locally as a committee member for the Friends of the Middlesex Fells Reservation and as an advisor to Green & Open Somerville. A passionate advocate for the democratization of science, Claire launched EwA’s Biodiversity & Climate Participatory Science program, connecting communities with local ecosystems through hands-on citizen science. Her initiatives emphasize species interactions, habitat dynamics, and urban ecosystem functions, empowering communities to engage in meaningful ecological research and action.

In-person meetings are held the at the Tufts Administration Building, (TAB), 167 Holland Street, second floor, wheelchair accessible. Parking is available for a small fee, and the building is a ten-minute walk from the Davis Square MBTA stop.

All Somerville Garden Club meetings are free and open to the public. 7-9pm. The SGC has been informed that the entry doors to the TAB will be locked at 8pm, effective immediately, including on our meeting days. Please arrange your arrival times accordingly.