People are enjoying extra time outside, too. They are also willing to hire professionals and invest money into yard improvements.” “They’ve discovered that ‘ backyarding’ is a better way to live and there’s no turning back. It’s not just a place that looks pretty – it’s a place to live and do daily activities such as working, dining and relaxing,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “What we are seeing with Americans is greater reliance on the backyard as an extension of the home.