[FoNC] Fwd: Keep Scotland Beautiful - Your weekly newsletter - be inspired and stay connected
Barbara BLOWS
tartanbell at aol.com
Mon May 4 11:34:46 UTC 2020
Sent to our mail box on Friday, Barbara
Sent from my iPad
Begin forwarded message:
> From: info at newington-cemetery.org.uk
> Date: 1 May 2020 at 14:30:18 BST
> To: Barbara Blows <tartanbell at aol.com>
> Subject: Fwd: Keep Scotland Beautiful - Your weekly newsletter - be inspired and stay connected
>
>
>
> ----- Forwarded message from Sarah Murphy <Sarah.Murphy at edinburgh.gov.uk> -----
> Date: Fri, 24 Apr 2020 08:46:23 +0000
> From: Sarah Murphy <Sarah.Murphy at edinburgh.gov.uk>
> Subject: Keep Scotland Beautiful - Your weekly newsletter - be inspired and stay connected
>
> Morning everyone
>
> Hope you’re all keeping well? I thought this would be interesting to you (if you haven’t already received it)?
>
> Sarah
>
> From: Beautiful Scotland and It's Your Neighbourhood <beautifulscotland at keepscotlandbeautiful.org>
> Sent: 24 April 2020 09:41
> To: Sarah Murphy <Sarah.Murphy at edinburgh.gov.uk>
> Subject: Your weekly newsletter - be inspired and stay connected
>
> 24 April 2020 Beautiful Scotland and It's Your Neighbourhood newsletter
> View this email in your browser<https://mailchi.mp/keepscotlandbeautiful.org/beautiful-scotland-and-its-your-neighbourhood-newsletter-240420?e=fba7c2b052>
> <https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=e61f2fd722&e=fba7c2b052>[https://gallery.mailchimp.com/21a6227ebfbf0e08b54c13fad/images/eec512ce-8b0b-4e79-bc4f-a86ccabf5c74.jpg]<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=e61f2fd722&e=fba7c2b052><https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=e61f2fd722&e=fba7c2b052>
>
> [Muthill's phone box food larder]<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=8c4c2e0385&e=fba7c2b052>
>
> Red phone boxes, garden waste and much more...
>
> I’ve really enjoyed pulling together this instalment of your Beautiful Scotland and It’s Your Neighbourhood newsletter. Coming back from my ‘staycation’, I was overwhelmed by emails, full of inspiring stories of what you’ve been getting up to, how you’re keeping safe and sane during lockdown and your words of wisdom – thank you so much for allowing Keep Scotland Beautiful to share these with everyone…I know they’ll inspire others and it just proves that It’s Your Neighbourhood and Beautiful Scotland are all about community spirit.
>
> Before I went off on my holiday, I was asked to write an article on ‘biodiversity’ for our Keep Scotland Beautiful blog – I hope you enjoy reading my ‘reconnecting with nature’ ramblings here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=d669a24f34&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> As well as your stories, this week's newsletter includes the next steps in our #GrowASeed initiative, how you can get involved in the nationwide 2.6 challenge, and activities and information from other organisations. We also have a special feature on ‘alternative uses for your garden waste’ at the end which was sent in by one of our volunteer assessors, Sue Steel.
>
> Happy reading and sending best wishes to you all, Juliette
>
> Top story - Muthill's phone box food larder
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/6f2bb690-6805-4856-b78e-c154d6448801.jpg]
> Our Beautiful Scotland groups are always up for a challenge, and Muthill in Bloom<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=28ec14dea3&e=fba7c2b052>, in Perth & Kinross, has made it onto the world-wide stage with its’ recent self-less actions.
>
> At this time of year, the group would usually be planning how to make the village beautiful through its’ quirky floral displays, but Coronavirus has curtailed that for now.
>
> Local resident, Corrina Robertson, approached the group as she was concerned local people might be struggling financially or be unable to get to the shops, and she wondered if the red phone box (currently waiting for a defibrillator to be installed) could be transformed into a village ‘food larder’. The group was only too delighted to help and jumped at the challenge. Read the full story here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=10e7ef2421&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Keep Scotland Beautiful updates
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/9f7eb987-f2a0-48c6-8aa6-fd911b68b557.jpg]
> #GrowASeed - pea update!
> Progress on Colin’s pea seeds and others: “The first photo is the peas progress after another week. The second is a pot of marrowfat peas taken out of a packet of Broth Mix. The marrowfats were soaked in water for 24 hours then sown. Germination was a little slower than the Pea.
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/9679693c-311a-4a15-9ddd-9fd4fc4a3820.jpg]
> "I am also trying Aduki Beans from the same broth mix treated the same way as the marrowfats. As of this morning they were showing signs of life.”
>
> Share your #GrowASeed journeys with us on social media - remember to tag @KSBScotland.
>
> #GrowASeed next steps – pricking out your seedlings
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/video_thumbnails_new/24b6975c38f8afc10ab6793c3d38f91d.png]<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=288b1c7fc8&e=fba7c2b052>
> Another of our judges, Sandy Scott decided to follow in Colin’s footsteps and sent in this informative film showing how to prick out your seedlings once they have two or more sets of leaves and are large enough to handle.
>
> Sandy demonstrates using a plant called Tagetes, or Golden Gem which is a small marigold. [taken from the RHS website: Tagetes produces an abundance of deep golden-yellow flowers throughout summer and well into autumn, is a very showy annual that can be used as a companion plant in the rose garden and vegetable patch to help repel aphids. The plants have a compact habit so make ideal edging and look fantastic in containers. The petals are edible and can be scattered over salads and are ideal for getting children involved as it is easy to grow. Choose a sunny, well-drained site and remember to deadhead regularly to keep it flowering.]
>
> If anyone else would like to send us a practical hints and tips video to share, if you keep it under 59 seconds we can then share it directly on social media - email videos through to juliette.camburn at keepscotlandbeautiful.org<mailto:juliette.camburn at keepscotlandbeautiful.org?subject=practical%20hints%20and%20tips%20video> or to the same email address via www.wetransfer.com<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=9c5853b018&e=fba7c2b052>.
> ________________________________
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/f3768492-d30e-4189-b12a-734d96c10c99.jpg]
> We’re excited to be getting involved in the #TwoPointSixChallenge, a nationwide campaign running from 26 April – 1 May to help save the UK’s charities.
>
> Right now, our natural environment is more important to us than ever as we all spend time cooped up in our homes. Our “natural health service” is vital to our health and wellbeing. Enjoying our local green and open spaces whilst complying with social distancing is an important way for everyone to stay healthy.
>
> And as a charity, we want to make sure we are still helping to protect our local green and open spaces once this pandemic has passed.
>
> That’s why we’re asking people to get involved in the “2.6 Challenge” by donating or fundraising<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=c706cd5ef3&e=fba7c2b052> for us. The challenge is open to all ages and encourages people to get active and be creative around the number “26” or “2.6”. Find out how you can get involved here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=4f49a6fb93&e=fba7c2b052>.
> ________________________________
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/video_thumbnails_new/ee1e57f6996d9d7d8ad20d5898006b2b.png]<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=1d38d88528&e=fba7c2b052>
> Giving Covid the Boot
> Some of my colleagues have been busy creating this fun video of how we’re ‘Giving Covid the Boot’! We hope you enjoy it.
>
> Why not create one for your group to share with your contacts and keep everyone feeling connected?
>
>
> WE NEED YOU! we would love to create a Beautiful Scotland and It's Your Neighbourhood 'Give Covid the Boot' video too with our groups, judges and assessors. If you'd like to take part:
>
> * Take a boot/shoe
> * Find a green space near you
> * Take a short video (no longer than 5 seconds) in landscape
> * Catch from your right; throw to your left
> * Think of creative locations and different ways you could catch/throw
> * Email to juliette.camburn at keepscotlandbeautiful.org<mailto:juliette.camburn at keepscotlandbeautiful.org?subject=Give%20Covid%20the%20Boot> (or send to same email using the free file sharing platform www.wetransfer.com<http://www.wetransfer.com>)
> * Deadline of Monday 4 May.
> We can't wait to see what you come up with 😊
>
> ________________________________
> Help us log dog poo across neighbourhoods in Scotland as part of our #TurdTag fortnight
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/710a9975-3794-467f-b475-f75701230040.jpg]
> With the UK in lockdown we will see changes in a range of local environmental quality indicators levels and trends. We have already seen a rise in flytipping levels which has provided us with the opportunity to highlight the problem and partner with relevant organisations to encourage responsibility (more here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=d97134b558&e=fba7c2b052>), now we want to do the same for dog fouling.
>
> Have you seen an increase in bagged or unbagged dog poo in your neighbourhood? As part of your daily exercise, and in accordance with Government guidance, why not take part in #TurdTag and help us understand dog fouling levels in your neighbourhood. The fortnight will run from 27 April. Find out more and get involved here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=83f9ed08f1&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> ________________________________
> Our Pop-Up Garden project
> Our Pop-up Pocket Garden is a gardening project that can be done at home in a small space, outdoors or indoors on a windowsill. It provides a great opportunity for children and young people aged 3-18 years to design and grow a small garden. There are themes to inspire you and a design brief to guide practical building and growing. We are looking for exciting and unusual designs that use edible plants, plants that attract wildlife and will reuse something which would otherwise have been thrown away. The best Pop-up Pocket Gardens will be featured on our website to celebrate your ideas and skills and to inspire others. Find out how to get involved here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=0f30e40764&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Inspiring stories and ideas from our groups and volunteers
>
> [Cumbernauld's Bloomin' Wild]<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=fb648c72aa&e=fba7c2b052>
> Goings on in Cumbernauld
> We’re absolutely delighted to welcome back Cumbernauld’s Bloomin’ Wild<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=5b689c4f36&e=fba7c2b052> from North Lanarkshire to Beautiful Scotland this year.
>
> This is the second time Cumbernauld Living Landscapes (CLL) has acted as the umbrella organisation for the Beautiful Scotland entry, after having a year break to develop a new Creating Natural Connections project.
>
> CLL is improving Cumbernauld’s greenspaces for both people and wildlife, while helping everyone in the community connect with the nature on their doorstep. The initiative is a partnership between the Scottish Wildlife Trust, North Lanarkshire Council, Sanctuary Scotland, the James Hutton Institute and TCV, and is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
>
> Cumbernauld is incredibly green - more than 50% of the land is greenspace, and CLL believes that everyone in Cumbernauld should benefit from this now and in the future. However, these areas are often disconnected from one another and many are not as good for people - or wildlife - as they should be. Without good quality, healthy places people and wildlife cannot flourish. Working closely with the local community, CLL needs to ensure that healthy places are at the heart of the town’s future.
>
> Tracy from CLL has sent in some wonderful documents which highlight the work of Cumbernauld’s Bloomin’ Wild and two of the community groups, Carbrain and Hillcrest Community Council<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=f878d3fffc&e=fba7c2b052> and Seafar and Ravenswood Community Council. You can find these documents at the bottom of this page<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=74c3c7907a&e=fba7c2b052>.
> ________________________________
>
> [cart needing repaired]<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=3b82c2ca43&e=fba7c2b052>
> Repair shop in Kinnesswood
> Norma from Kinnesswood in Bloom<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=ad99f9f42b&e=fba7c2b052>: “We took possession of an agricultural cart offered to us a number of years ago. It was planted out and surrounded by wildflowers but now needs considerable maintenance, mainly replacing the wood with treated timber.
>
> "An interpretation board describing the agriculture of the area would also help add to the information about the heritage of the village.
>
> “The maintenance project is being undertaken while we are in lockdown. This was planned beforehand, and Rory has his very own "Repair Shop" (like the TV show) at his house.
> Rory had stripped back the cart and removed the bits that survived to his workshop. He also removed the soil and plants which will be reinstated later. He sourced inner tubes from a vintage vehicle site. He is now working on the metalwork. Funding for the repair has come from the local festival. We will be looking for further funding for our interpretation board."
>
>
> Lauder in Bloom’s plant swap and on-line activities
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/0259edf9-0b18-4efb-942b-401878775393.jpg]
> Lauder in Bloom<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=a92f7b7b55&e=fba7c2b052> has had a free Plant Swap area for a number of years, where locals can drop off any unwanted divisions, seedlings etc. and anyone can take what they can make use of.
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/7a4a32d8-927d-41fc-b179-7a6acf4ab5bd.jpg]
> This has always been a popular scheme but, in the current situation it has really taken off with a wide variety of plants being regularly donated along with hanging baskets, pots and other garden bits and bobs.
>
> The group has also always had a very active Facebook group, and it realises the importance of keeping it filled with bright blooms to help those who are unable to get out and about. It helps to capture the passing beauty so that the moment isn’t missed this year.
>
>
> Lorraine’s Chrysanthemums continued...
> Update on Beautiful Scotland judge<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=172fad19a4&e=fba7c2b052> Lorraine Turnbull’s chrysanthemums (read 10 April newsletter<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=9cf0dc086e&e=fba7c2b052> for first instalment): “A job well done - there’s something quite uplifting to finish a job and to stand back and admire the results. I love seeing the Chrysanths at this time of year, all uniform and waiting to spring into growth. Each of these plants will go on to produce two large blooms towards the end of August. For now, they will remain in their six-inch pots, until potted on into their final larger pots, and they will receive a very dilute high nitrogen feed from now until the flower buds arrive and start to show some colour.
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/adb570f4-81b0-47fb-9cbc-9154b035a4f7.jpg]
> "The plants have been moved into their protective little hut, which has a polycarbonate roof to protect them from the rain, and mesh sides for a little wind protection. It’s funny really that Chrysanthemums are not a favourite flower of mine and they are quite out of fashion.
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/515f2ac3-dd06-46ee-a042-6989214f4191.jpg]
> I do however enjoy the process of growing them and trying every year to better the year before. There’s also that bit of nostalgia in me, remembering time spent on my dad’s allotment as a little girl.”
>
> ________________________________
> It’s Your Neighbourhood and Beautiful Scotland musings from John MacLennan, volunteer judge and assessor (and all-round supporter of KSB)
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/69bc79b8-ac8a-4d70-8528-48a2daa3f16e.jpg]
> “Easter Bunnies were certainly bouncing around numerous It’s Your Neighbourhood groups, and they were clearly abiding by the social distancing rules. Perhaps the bunny activity in Comrie<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=247c8af42b&e=fba7c2b052>, West Fife, is a good example of how a community pulls together, with several bunnies covering the village with a pre publicised route.
>
> Likewise in Comrie they have joined our #<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=fca8aee333&e=fba7c2b052>GrowASeed<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=7086af8829&e=fba7c2b052> initiative with a wide assortment of seeds germinating on windowsills. To date, the team in Comrie have not yet decided how their annual garden competition will progress in summer 2020. This competition has been run successfully by Marilyn Mack, who coordinates the IYN group, and one of the highlights is the social element this generates. The village has a social get together, with ample wine, home bakes and cheese dips in March to discuss how they would like the competition to grow, and after the gardens are judged there is also a social event, with more wine and food, at which everyone receives a certificate or trophy depending on their success. The judging of forty or more entrants, some of which are in multiple categories, takes one full day in late July, with categories such as edible crop planters, baskets, sustainable garden, edible garden, and garden for colour. This group does not just focus on gardening but has activities throughout the year including a Burns Supper, and as the community centre is the focal point in the village, there are classes on offer such as Glass Fusion, as well as Zumba. Do other IYN groups have village garden competitions and, if so, do let us know of the successes or things to avoid?
>
> “One of the highlights of Beith Orr Park Neighbourhood Watch<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=dabb90a1fc&e=fba7c2b052> group is its’ annual wood carving event which, hopefully in 2020, will be on Saturday 12 September and probably held within the Manse Field, Beith. For more information the webpage is www.garnockvalleycarves.com<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=e4c1985dc5&e=fba7c2b052>. I encouraged Norrie, the leading light of the group to share his group’s issues and concerns during the lockdown with us and I hope you enjoy reading them: 'Being close to 80 has meant we are restricted in what can be done. We try to ensure the areas close to our home and the park are litter free and, as the weather has been good with little wind there is not much rubbish. However, with the closure of all the recycling depots there is a marked increase in large scale dumping which does detract from our usually tidy village.
>
> 'Before the lockdown on a Friday early evening, we took a couple of over 90s to Cafe Solace, Kilbirnie where we all enjoyed an excellent three course wholesome meal for £2 per head but, of course that has been abandoned. However, the team at the cafe now help out with the distribution of food around Garnock Valley as well as delivering medication.
>
> 'One observation, which I am sure is the same in other communities, is that people are generally being more ‘neighbourly’ - helping with shopping and chatting at a distance - in other words we have time for each other.
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/acd40bb6-563e-4fe6-8c2a-96effb659836.jpg]
> 'Each Thursday we join our neighbours with the door step clapping. Some of our neighbours bang pots and pans, while the local pipe band joins us and plays an assortment of tunes while I have recorded ‘Scotland the Brave’ which I play at full volume on the doorstep. As you can see, our life in Beith is a bit different for 2020 but it reminds us of the celebrations following the War; yes, we’re all going some small way to generate a more neighbourly togetherness in our community.'
> [Photo taken by Norrie of raindrops on lupin leaves]
>
> “Just north of Dundee’s City Centre is The MAXwell Centre<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=9e533083b3&e=fba7c2b052>, which serves the community of Coldside. The team has always been innovative at MAXwell, and among recent ideas the group is circulating via social media is a Fun Bingo. It does not use numbers but words/drawings from a chosen theme. Although the online video suggests ‘flowers’, it could be anything you like such as ‘things in the garden’, or ‘words’. Do click on the youtube clip https://youtu.be/X8wD1tH2KDw<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=3bd1da8b8f&e=fba7c2b052> and have fun playing and be creative!
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/a0d6483e-f3d6-4e52-96c2-76402e25727e.jpg]
> The MAXwell Centre has always had growing in its’ focus and the group distributed over seventy spring growing kits 💚🐣🌈🥕 to families wanting to grow and eat their own veggies! These contained six seed packets and six fun activities with a special Easter extra!
>
> “As social distancing continues, don’t forget to keep your community colourful: Lanark in Bloom<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=8876ffa0dc&e=fba7c2b052> members are using the opportunity of walking a dog as the ideal chance to titivate planters, as well as, like many others, to litter pick. Perhaps one advantage is having a dog while another may be having members who are not in social isolation i.e. under 70!”
> ________________________________
>
> The next gardening and nature video instalements from Aberdeen City Council
> Ian from the Countryside Ranger Service shows you what kind of wildlife you can find in your garden here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=52929a8860&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Danny Shand, one of our volunteers and the Council Gardener shows how you can grow carrots (video here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=2d73885423&e=fba7c2b052>) and potatoes (video here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=870f37732d&e=fba7c2b052>) by using scraps in your house.
> ________________________________
>
> Your photos
> - Our Roadside litter campaign spotted on our volunteer David Turnbull’s daily walk along the Union Canal at Fountainbridge.
> - Spring flowers (2 photos) from Brighten up Kirkconnel<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=f2bef82412&e=fba7c2b052> in Dumfries and Galloway.
> - From Sarah Turnill, volunteer and member of the It’s Your Neighbourhood group Belhaven Hospital Community Garden<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=6118196282&e=fba7c2b052> in Dunbar, East Lothian which is part of the Dunbar in Bloom<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=3cab41b37a&e=fba7c2b052> Beautiful Scotland entry: “The hyacinths perfume scents the air as I'm weeding, just magic. Happy Easter from Dunbar in Bloom.”
>
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/ed1ea776-2b1e-479b-8da3-b4b442974544.jpg]
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/fc5622f0-4c2e-4e08-aa29-b424d6a089f7.jpg]
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/68f0832e-72f5-49b2-b939-73c07f6bf7c2.jpg]
> [https://mcusercontent.com/739719ef9d868d8107b26616c/images/9a741eef-45b8-4a6b-b116-79c33aac321b.jpg]
> Events, activities advice and information
>
> [Photo credit: Iain Leach]
> On-line butterfly ID classes
> Butterfly Conservation is running a free online course in butterfly identification and recording. There will also be lessons on gardening for butterflies. The course has already started but all of the lessons will remain online for new registrations, and new lessons are created every two weeks.
>
> Find out more here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=cc4d027f7b&e=fba7c2b052>. To register, please email Project Officer, Anthony McCluskey on amccluskey at butterfly-conservation.org<mailto:amccluskey at butterfly-conservation.org>.
>
> #NoMowMay and Every Flower Counts
> This year, Plantlife is encouraging gardeners with lawns to take part in Every Flower Counts at the end of May. To receive your own Personal Nectar Score showing you how much nectar your lawn is producing and how many bees it can support:
>
> 1) From the end of April stash your mowers in your sheds, leave your lawn uncut, and join in with #NoMowMay to let the flowers grow.
> 2) Take part in Every Flower Counts from 23-31 May. It’s incredibly simple – find out more and register here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=ade38b7e33&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Trellis blog
> Catch up with the latest gardening gossip on the Trellis Blog here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=4b5005d609&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Can you help the Royal Edinburgh Hospital?
> Volunteer Edinburgh<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=78d97910bd&e=fba7c2b052> Hub want to beautify spaces outside ward windows to give patients colourful views, filled with plants to attract bees, butterflies and birds. A small team of local volunteers (observing guidelines) will carry out the work at this difficult time. If you know of any local garden centres or stores giving away unsold plants or seeds please contact REH at volunteeredinburgh.org.uk<mailto:REH at volunteeredinburgh.org.uk>. Please also forward or share this message to anyone who may be able to help.
>
> Nature and place poetry competition
> The Rialto, working in association with the RSPB, BirdLife International and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative has created this competition. Poems are invited that deal with any aspect of nature and place – these terms will be given a wide interpretation by the judge. Prizes: 1st - £1,000; 2nd - £500, 3rd - £250. Deadline 1 May. Find out more here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=8856d2f127&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Help frogs in your garden
> Simple instructions on how to make a frog and toad abode from the RSPB here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=938452bc40&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Scottish Government’s Clear Your Head campaign
> The Scottish Government has launched its’ new mental health campaign to support people through the current lockdown measures. The campaign highlights practical steps that all of us can take to look after our mental health better. For example sticking to a routine, staying active within the current guidelines, keeping in touch with people, and taking a break from news or social media from time to time. It recognises that taking advantage of the once-a-day opportunity to get outside and exercise is also a chance to really connect with nature and notice what’s around us, as the world is that little bit quieter outdoors. Find out more here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=ec2c5f2235&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Climate Ready Forth
> Inner Forth Futures<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=a7cc1714a4&e=fba7c2b052> is starting a new project: ‘Climate Ready Forth’ to help communities of the Inner Forth region build their resilience to climate change and develop ways to take action. It will work with local people to decide how best to do this and there will be plenty of ways to get involved. The organisation wants to hear from you: sign up to its’ Facebook group to stay up to date with events and activities: (Climate Ready Forth<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=f11141e8f3&e=fba7c2b052>); contact the Project Officer, Chloe Wells at chloe.wells at rspb.org.uk<mailto:chloe.wells at rspb.org.uk> or the Project Manager, Kate Fuller at kate.fuller at rspb.org.uk<mailto:kate.fuller at rspb.org.uk> and follow it on Twitter @innerforth.
>
> Why we all need to go peat-free
> Read this informative blog post by RSPB: https://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/climatechange/posts/garden-peat-free-this-easter<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=c82342d44a&e=fba7c2b052>
>
> The Nature of Scotland Awards open for nominations
> Brought to you by RSPB Scotland and co-sponsored by Scottish Natural Heritage, the awards recognise the very best in Scottish nature conservation – could you be one of the 2020 winners? Deadline 1 June. Find out more and send in your nomination here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=a3f26df681&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Special feature: Alternative uses of garden ‘waste’ in the absence of local authority collections and closure of recycling centres, Sue Steel, It’s Your Neighbourhood assessor
>
> Most by-products of gardening such as grass cuttings, herbaceous material cut back after winter and fallen leaves are already kept by many gardeners and turned into valuable compost and potting material. However, others – often due to lack of space and/or knowledge about composting – use Council green waste collections or the local tip (where they also take larger items such as shrubs and tree branches). As in most places these collections have been suspended and recycling centres have been closed, here is short list of other options:
>
> * Kitchen vegetable waste and other chopped ‘green’ material: Wherever possible these should be composted. A good compost heap comprises layers of different materials including chopped up stemmy material at the base (for aeration and drainage), garden debris, grass cuttings, chopped up annual weeds and uncooked vegetable waste from the kitchen (but not cooked material or egg shells as these can attract mice and rats). In a compost heap worms, bacteria and fungi break down the raw waste. To work properly, these need moisture, warmth, air and a good mix of food including some sappy leaves and stemmy material. Woody stems break down more quickly when chopped and mixed with materials such as grass cuttings which are high in nitrogen and act as compost ‘activators’ (and cost less than bought ones although these can also help in small quantities if you can get hold of them!).
> * Herbaceous plants: Use hollow stems from cutting back herbaceous perennials to make ‘bug hotels’. These should be cut and tied together in bundles and left in a sheltered corner of the garden where they will provide shelter for overwintering invertebrates.
> * Woody cuttings: In larger gardens, a log or wood pile in an unused corner is another excellent refuge for wildlife and can provide both a damp corner for frogs to shelter and a warm dry corner for hedgehogs to hibernate.
> * Dry leaves: Old leaves, ideally left in a bin bag or other container for 1-2 years, make an excellent mulch for herbaceous plants, shrubs and fruit bushes. This is best spread when the soil is damp to conserve moisture and reduce evaporation in dry weather. Decomposed leaves are also useful to mix with soil to make homemade potting compost (especially useful when garden centres are closed!).
> * Rainwater: Any means of collecting rainwater off roofs of houses, garages and sheds – ideally in a water butt but alternatively in other receptacles – is worthwhile as this is better than tap water. A garden pond (however small) is also excellent for encouraging frogs which, as well as providing entertainment, help with slug control. Birds also require fresh, clean water for drinking and bathing.
> * Mulch: If you don’t have sufficient compost or leaf mulch, a layer of damp newspaper or carboard suppresses weeds and will gradually decompose and be incorporated into the soil. Weigh it down with either a thin layer of mulch or some stones or bricks.
> All these ideas promote sustainable gardening as well as encouraging wildlife. They will help to make your garden more productive and enjoyable.
>
> Funding opportunities and resources
>
> [For up to date information and links to funding available across Scotland, visit SCVO’s funding page here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=4aa1b6bd00&e=fba7c2b052>.]
>
> Tesco Bags of Help grants and Covid-19
> Currently applications are still open and there will be project flexibility for funded groups. Tesco has decided store voting will not take place until further notice due to Covid-19. This does mean that unfortunately there will be a delay in getting a decision on your application. Please read the FAQs or get in touch with the Community Enabler team if you have questions. More here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=ac26c1300f&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
> Emergency funding for communities launched
> Foundation Scotland's new Community Response, Recovery and Resilience Fund supports local charities and grassroots organisations across Scotland. The fund has been established to help organisations respond to the coronavirus pandemic and is already providing grants. Find out more here<https://keepscotlandbeautiful.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=739719ef9d868d8107b26616c&id=1ad3f418e2&e=fba7c2b052>.
>
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> Keep Scotland Beautiful is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO): Number SC030332. Copyright © 2020 Keep Scotland Beautiful, All rights reserved.
> You signed up to receive this email newsletter as part of your involvement in the Beautiful Scotland or It's Your Neighbourhood campaign.
>
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>
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