A number of plotholders take a keen interest in the science of ecology which has motivated some of them to allocate an area in the north east corner of the site, consisting of about three plots, to be designated as a small ‘nature reserve’. The reserve is dominated by a small pond which attracts a number of beneficial animals and insects such as frogs, toads, newts, lacewings, dragonflies, and such like. Various trees and shrubs have also been planted and a smaller area has been converted into a meadow with suitable grass and wild flowers. Cover for larger animals such as foxes is provided by a substantial area of brambles which also provide shelter and food for an interesting variety of bird life. Organised visits to the nature reserve have been made by some local schools and this is encouraged by the Association when properly supervised.
One such primary school has now taken over the cultivation of a plot which is used to instruct the children in the rudiments of horticulture but more especially to try to encourage a healthy interest in botany and related life sciences. The children visiting the site in such fashion are supervised by school staff at all times.
Members are encouraged to recycle their garden and kitchen waste. Bonfires are generally frowned upon and are prohibited until one hour before sunset so as not to cause smoke nuisance to others working on their plots or nearby local residents.
Commercially provided skips for the disposal of non biodegradable rubbish generated on the site are occasionally provided. On such occasions all members are invited to scour the site for unsightly rubbish which is then disposed of by means of this facility thereby generally improving the ambience of the site as a whole.
