The city of Milton has begun the process to be distinguished as a Community Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.

Only two other cities in the state — Johns Creek and Chamblee — have officially earned that distinction. Milton aims to be third.

Will Check, an intern with the city and a rising senior at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School, has taken point on this project and plans to see it through in about a year.

“I’ve been pretty interested in nature and wildlife but I’ve never started a nature project like this,” Check said. “I have always enjoyed outdoor sports like fishing and being in nature, and this is a great first project to do.”

The city has already formed the Milton Community Wildlife Habitat Project Committee and will be having informational meetings in July for citizens who want to do their part in getting the city certified.

Check said the city is currently in the registration process and his contact with the National Wildlife Federation has already recognized Milton is ahead of the game as far as being a nature-friendly community.

The certification process is measured by a points system where homes that register with the federation earn the city one point, businesses can earn two to three points and schools earn five points.

“The process of certifying your home takes 5 minutes. It’s very, very easy and it’s a fun process,” Check said, noting he had just finished this process at his own home.

“It’s a fun way to get outside and enhance your yard and make it wildlife friendly.”

There will be a committee meeting which will be open to the public July 11 at 7 p.m. in the executive boardroom at city hall.

The official kick-off for the project will be July 16 at 5:30 p.m. in the council chambers at city hall.

Information: wildlifehabitatproject@cityofmiltonga.us.