We have launched a new initiative in conjunction with Woking Borough Council to promote the Gardening for Life Programme.  The programme is supported by the Guildford Environmental Forum and Surrey Wildlife Trust.  It encourages people to let flora & fauna share their gardens by providing suitable habitats and gardening in an environmentally friendly way.

A survey was carried out in the July 2003 and over 700 of Guildford’s gardeners responded.    Initial results showed that people are keen to look after the local environment and encourage birds and animals to their gardens.  Besides high figures for robins, blackbirds, ladybirds, sparrows and frogs, 37% reported bats in their gardens and 6% had bat roosts!

82% had their own compost bin, 64% collected rainwater and 40% had plants that were drought tolerant.   

There was strong recognition for the good wood standard, the Forestry stewardship Council (FSC) mark but few people were aware of the need to buy local English charcoal which helps regenerate local woodlands and reduces the destruction of habitats such as mangrove swamps.

A more detailed analysis is being carried out to look at trends and to establish relationships between behaviour which will help us in our promotional activities.

To follow up the questionnaire, the Council has organised sessions of Green Gardeners Question Time. This follows the familiar radio format of Gardeners Question Time with questions answered by an expert panel. The first was held in the Guildhall, Guildford in October 2003 and was attended by around 70 people. Further sessions are planned, if you are interested in receiving information, please e-mail [email protected].

If you have any other queries on the programme, or wish to obtain a discounted water butt please contact David Harnett on 01483 444540 or e-mail [email protected].