Local residents are invited to a free garden tour and masterclass on growing a nature and wildlife garden, in the first in a new series of workshops organised by Nature Conservation Margaret River Region.
The conservation group has launched a new For Nature Landholder Stewardship Program, aimed at inspiring and educating locals on practical ways to boost the conservation value of their urban garden, bush block or rural property.
As part of the new initiative, there will be a series of "catch ups", workshops, garden tours and field trips throughout 2021 and beyond to connect people and share knowledge and resources.
The first, on Saturday May 22, is a garden visit and tour of Margaret River gardener Peta Goodwin's property.
It's an inspiring example of how to combine a productive, edible plot with a nature and wildlife garden on a quarter-acre suburban block.
Tickets are free but spaces are limited so Nature Conservation is urging people to register their interest, and the first 10 people to do so will each receive a $40 voucher for native plants from the Tube Nursery in Cowaramup to plant in their own garden.
Ms Goodwin's garden has been 20 years in the making, with mature shade trees, bird-attracting natives and a wildlife pond mixed with vegetable beds and fruit trees including avocado, fig, citrus, mango and more.
It's also alive with birds and bees, quendas, possums and reptiles.
The tour and masterclass will look at which species to plant - and which to avoid - to bring wildlife to your garden and maximise its conservation value.
The other events will explore topics like creating nature-inspired gardens, attracting and providing habitat for local fauna, how to undertake best practice weed and pest control, wetland and stream restoration, advice for property planning, and more.
For Nature Program Officer Peta Lierich said the series would connect participants with volunteer groups, school groups and experts, as well as each other.
"Real conservation can start with small, localised action in your own backyard. We have such a conservation-minded community already, and For Nature will enhance this.
"In a world facing environmental issues that can feel overwhelming, For Nature is a local, practical and hands-on way for everyone living or working in the Margaret River region to take meaningful action," she said.
The For Nature Landowner Stewardship Program is supported by funding from the Western Australian Government's State Natural Resources Management Program, Water Corporation and Shire of Augusta Margaret River.
To register for the program, visit www.natureconservation.org.au/for-nature
To register for the Fauna and Food Garden Visit with Peta Goodwin, see https://events.humanitix.com/for-nature-catch-up-fauna-and-food-garden-visit
