Exurban Backyard Preferences: Implications for Design to Enhance Ecosystem Services

Abstract

Large-lot exurban landscapes could incorporate ecological design in order to contribute ecosystem services. In our study, we use a survey of 126 Southeast Michigan homeowners to examine respondents’ stated preferences for residential yard images, and compare those with reported current use and management of their actual yards. We found that stated preferences are not necessarily related to actual management behaviors. We use this finding, as well as other insights into homeowner preferences for yard appearance, to create design and planning recommendations. Aligning design and policy with homeowner preferences, yard activities, and ecological design goals could improve cultural sustainability and help ecological benefits last into the future.