16 March 2010An environmental initiative that has blossomed into the most successful scheme of its kind in Kent has been shortlisted for a prestigious international award.
Over the last three years Sevenoaks District Council's 'Gardening for Wildlife' award scheme has more than doubled in size to over 100 entrants, and has now been nominated for a Green Apple Environment Award.
This year 69 gardens were entered that were completely new to the scheme. In the last three years, 18 local schools have also taken part, contributing to their Eco-Schools status, with developments, including the creation of sensory and cottage gardens, increases in bird numbers, and improvements in bio-diversity recorded.
The Green Apple awards are run by the Green Organisation, an independent, non-political, non-activist, non-profit environmental group, and recognise, reward and promote environmental best practice around the world.
Cllr Felicity Broomby, Sevenoaks District Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for the environment, says: "As a Council we have a strong commitment to creating a green and healthy environment and it is fantastic to see our residents taking to ecological initiatives like this one with such passion. Being nominated for the award is a great tribute to each and every individual who has worked hard to make their garden a haven for local wildlife."
The 'Gardening for Wildlife' award scheme launches on the first day of spring and the deadline for entries is 1 June. It is open to all District residents, schools and community groups, and judging of entrants gardens has recently been completed.
The Council holds a Wildlife Gardening Celebration Evening in September which includes wildlife presentations, display stands from local organisations and a ceremony to congratulate the award winners.
As part of the scheme, individuals receive a free information pack full of gardening ideas and advice to get them started or to help make further improvements to their gardens. To date, over 600 of these packs have been sent out to improve the wildlife gardening knowledge of local people.
A quarterly seasonal newsletter also goes out to constantly update residents on changes they can make to their garden to benefit wildlife.
Gardens are assessed by the Kent Wildlife Trust and gold, silver, bronze and highly commended awards are given depending on a wide range of factors that help support and protect wildlife.
The assessment is based on how plants and shrubs where used to help wildlife such as birds, hedgehogs and butterflies. Other factors taken into account included composting, saving water, avoiding peat products and the provision of nest boxes and feeding areas.
The 'Gardening for Wildlife' award scheme is run in partnership with Kent Wildlife Trust, North West Kent Countryside Partnership and sponsored by Mid Kent Water, Kent County Council and CARE Kent.
The Council will be presented with the award at the House of Commons in November.
