Thanks to Mike for sharing this with OnTheWight readers. Ed
Further to a recent article on fighting Himalayan Balsam, I am seeking ways to promote the Isle of Wight environment and encourage positive action.
There are occasional articles when Trusts and Charities wish to alert others for the need of assistance to deal with a specific problem, but these groups do not appear to have regular community contact, raise the benefits and awareness of countryside pleasure, health benefits and the opportunities to build interaction with each other, develop and share skills and how we might explore and build contact with the community and other groups where our skills might be of assistance, shared with others and allow network to build with other groups.
One-stop-shop
I have suggested perhaps a one-stop-shop that cover Isle of Wight conservation and have begun a flickr site that begins to target this for pictures to be included, topics might be raised, what benefits area available to volunteers etc but wish to develop this further.
A one-stop Website that covers a list, linked to all Websites of groups involved in this area would allow exploration by viewing what the groups offer, voluntary opportunities and even a calender of works being undertaken, locations where help is required and what forms these might take.
New innovations can help all
The groups do seek to make the best with the funding they have, but I believe there is more that can be achieved.
Volunteers of all ages can share knowledge and experience, skills that have been gained and younger volunteers can bring further vibrancy, enthusiasm and the chance to see how the development of new innovations might assist other members.
More than just physical tasks
Conservation is, and should not just involve carrying out the physical tasks, and by raising their own skills through photography, artistry, sketching, drawing, woodwork, carving and many other areas, collecting data, business and promotional skills can only add value to the tasks that are being done.
Community Centres, libraries, homes and schools might can gain from displays of works that have been carried out through peoples report, pictures and so on.
Health walks and other activities outdoors might also incorporate this for we all gain from the chances to improve or health or relax and enjoy the countryside, coastal shores etc.
Let’s all explore this together and make our Isle of Wight environment grow, become more positive and encourage all generations to build upon what this wonderful Island offers us.
If you are a local community group, Trust or charitable body let us build a network that expands from something that has become somewhat insular to reaching our wider communities the Isle of Wight as whole.
Isle of Wight environment – Encouraging Positive Action or Volunteering has many Community Benefits
Image: © With kind permission of Mike Vallender the Green Gardener
