On the verge stirling
This year On the Verge has adopted a new approach in some areas by developing existing grassland more naturally. A combination of cut and collect management and the introduction of yellow rattle is being used to keep the grass under control and then wildflower species gathered through local seed collection will be added where gaps appear. This is a strategy that OTV has been actively lobbying Stirling Council to adopt as policy in its grassland management.
On the Verge is also planning to launch a new campaign next year called “Beds for Bees”. This will offer a more formal alternative for community groups, where wildflower meadows are unsuitable, by establishing flower beds of nectar- rich perennial plants popular with pollinators in parks or other areas.
On the Verge has worked with local community groups and schools in Stirling and Clackmananshire for ten years now. The award-winning, voluntary organisation promotes the establishment and management of native wildflower sites and supports the process from beginning to end. It helps groups to identify suitable sites to sow, seek permission from landowners, organise the preparation of the site and offers support for the sowing process where necessary. Annual monitoring of sites is undertaken by On the Verge members and volunteers from the community group involved. The native wildflower seeds are a mix of Scottish annuals and perennials and are provided by On the Verge free of charge.
On the verge cambridge
Inspired by the original group in Stirling, On the Verge Cambridge was set up in July 2019 to promote pollinator-friendly planting in and around Cambridge. We quickly established a working relationship with our local Biodiversity officer which led directly to our first project that autumn - reseeding the city park meadows. Building on their success we have had four proposals accepted for new city park meadows and we have forged links with several community groups to help improve their green spaces for biodiversity. With the wider aim of boosting the wildflowers in our roadside verges we have introduced the City Council to the mowing regime in Dorset and intend to do the same for the County Council this autumn.
Coton Loves pollinators
Coton Loves Pollinators is a community action group made up of Coton residents. It was set up in October 2019 after at talk to our local Garden Society about the Importance of Pollinators and the Ecoservices they provide.
Our aim is to raise awareness about the plight of pollinators and enhance our village and the surrounding areas for pollinators.
We believe in a joined-up approach where everyone can play their part - from gardeners, allotment holders, schools, churches, sports clubs, businesses, community groups, artists, amateur botanists, garden centres, parish councils and local government.
We hope to inspire others to follow our lead.
In order to help get people started, we are happy to share what we have learned,
our 'Loves Pollinator' logo and all our 'Get Coton Buzzing' project resources.
Worcester Environmental Group will talk about how they have managed to start the process of turning three large fields into native wildflower meadows. They will give an account of how they managed to establish their first native wildflower verge after years of failure. You will also hear of how this pilot project has resulted in plans for many more verges around the city and surrounding environs.
THe Weg- Worcester Environmental group
Click here to find more information about the talk and book on Eventbrite