Shelby County becomes Indiana’s first certified Bird Town County

Shelby County has been officially certified as a Bird Town Indiana community partner, becoming the first county in the state to earn the designation.

The certification, awarded in May and valid through May 2027, highlights a countywide commitment to protecting birds, improving habitat and involving the public in conservation.

Bird Town Indiana is a statewide program that recognizes communities taking meaningful steps to reduce threats to birds, enhance native landscapes and foster public awareness about birds and their habitats. The program is administered by Indiana Audubon, a leader in bird conservation, education and research across the state.

“This milestone reflects years of collaboration and a shared vision across our towns, schools and community organizations,” said Rachael Ackley, executive director of the Shelby County Tourism and Visitors Bureau. “It’s a sign of how seriously we take our responsibility to care for birds, their habitats and our shared environment.”

The Shelby County Bird Town Committee is made up of residents representing a variety of local organizations, including tourism, education, environmental advocacy and community development. The group has led efforts across the county to promote habitat restoration, public education and local conservation policy.

Initiatives cited in the application include invasive species removal projects, as well as the inclusion of native plant lists in Shelbyville’s development ordinances to guide landscaping in new site plans, and a countywide partnership with RushShelby Energy. Through that program, residents can report power line structures that may pose a danger to birds, leading technicians to install perch guards or other safeguards for birds.

Shelbyville High School’s Ecology Department plays a central role in the county’s education efforts. Students engage in bird-focused lessons, design feeders tailored to specific species and participate in hands-on conservation learning. Additional outreach will begin this summer through new “Bird Walk and Talk” programs held in parks and community centers across the county.

“The depth and scope of Shelby County’s initiatives set a strong example—not just for towns and cities, but for entire regions,” said Brad Bumgardner, executive director of Indiana Audubon. “It’s one thing for a single municipality to take action; it’s another to see that kind of coordination at the county level.”

As a certified Bird Town, Shelby County joins Ogden Dunes, Michigan City, Geneva, Chesterton, Beverly Shores, Porter, and Indiana University Kokomo. Learn more about Shelby County’s bird-friendly efforts at birdcity.org/Indiana/shelby-county.