From the Grass Roots - Mentoring regeneration projects in the Northern Rivers
Formed in 2018, The Grass Roots Mentoring Group initially brought together 15 friends and like-minded people, with a shared passion for the repair and regeneration of our immediate environment.
Capacity building - LEP_23_033_LLC_BRRVLN-03
The issue
At the time it was felt there existed a need in the wider Lismore area for an environmental group focused primarily on providing support to its members with their individual regeneration projects to enhance biodiversity and increase native habitat on their land. Of particular focus was the need to reach out to newcomers to the area who were keen to start regeneration projects on their properties but had limited knowledge of how or where to start.
The solution
It was recognized that across the community there existed a huge pool of environmental knowledge, experience and professional training, and it was felt that a framework by which this knowledge could be disseminated within a group and indeed the broader community, would be desirable. Hence the group brings together qualified bush regenerators, landholders with years of practical experience, right through to those who are just getting started on their ‘regeneration journey’.
The meetings provide up to date best practice information on a broad range of topics including property planning, weed identification and control, species identification, stream bank erosion mitigation, soil types and safe, effective chemical and equipment use. This is combined within ‘a learning framework’ of practical, physical hands-on assistance and social interaction.
The impact
From its initial 15 members, the group has now grown to more than 80 people, regularly attracting 20 to 30 members each meeting.
We generally meet on a member’s property, commencing with a broad discussion around the selected topic with a handout provided, before getting down to hands on activities, and finish up with a bring a plate luncheon which provides a further important opportunity for information sharing and networking. On-ground successes are primarily in weed control and tree and grasses planting, but can also be measured in areas such as increased knowledge of property planning, sourcing plant material, information on funding and grant applications and fostering a general interest in environmental issues.
For more on the Grass Roots Mentoring Group
Ken Williams
grassrootsmentoringgroup@outlook.com
https://www.facebook.com/Grass-Roots-Mentoring-Group-2054189587924578/
Key facts
- - The aim of the group is to provide knowledge and skills to empower its members to accomplish their individual regeneration projects.
- - Practical hands-on assistance is also central to the model, as is social interaction and networking.
- - On ground activities have achieved excellent environmental outcomes across a range of properties
- - The group maintains a dedicated core membership, but also continues to attract new faces.