NICA’s community engagement program, Urban Wildlife Gardens (UWG), is continuing to be successful. It is now in its 4th year, with around 140 households across the shire involved in creating urban native gardens on their properties. The UWG program represents an engaging citizen science initiative of NICA and is a valuable contribution toward Noosa Council’s Environment Strategy.
In addition to expert advice on native garden design and plant selection, the UWG program provides its members access to regular workshops, with recent highlights including Pruning Native Plants by John Olds, Landscaping in Public Places by Matt Hansen, Bruce Hallett’s Guide to splitting Native Bee Hives, and Marc Russell’s presentation on Bush Tucker. Stephanie Haslam has also been active with craft and information displays mounted in Cooroy and Noosaville libraries to draw attention to the program.
Future planned workshops will include – Indigenous culture and knowledge with Lyndon Davis; ‘Native Plants in Pots and hanging Baskets’ with Shaun Walsh, other topics by Shaun Walsh will include – ‘Where Do I Begin Starting a Native Garden’, and ‘Best Plants for Wildlife in Your Noosa Garden’, plus – Nature Journaling with Dion Dior.
Join the Urban Wildlife Garden program for a one off fee of $30 and you will receive;
- A garden visit and expert advice on ways to improve the biodiversity in your garden and identify the weed species to remove.
- A property sign.
- A $5 discount on NICA publications.
- Newsletters emailed monthly and invitations to workshops and field days.
- Several free plants to suit your area.
Urban Wildlife Gardens is being delivered by NICA with support from Noosa Council and is for people living in the Noosa Shire.
You can find out more about the program and how to join on NICA’s website HERE.