The Wildlife Gardening Award is run by Devon Wildlife Trust. It is open to the public, to schools, community gardens, businesses and to anyone who has a space which they want to use to attract nature.

The scheme is free to enter.

During its first year, in 2022, a total of 450 people, groups and businesses were presented with Wildlife Gardening Awards. To qualify, participants need to show that they have implemented at least ten measures for wildlife from a list of easy to do tasks including planting nectar rich flowers, constructing a log pile, leaving patches of lawn unmown and opting to garden peat-free and pesticide-free.

The list has been put together to provide the maximum benefits for wildlife while also being inexpensive and achievable.

Katie Wilkinson is Devon Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Communities Team Leader and oversees the award. Katie says:

“We had nearly 500 entries last year, but we’d love to break through the 1,000 mark in 2023!

We’ve been really impressed and inspired by what people are doing for wildlife in their gardens. From taking simple steps locally such as putting in plants specifically to attract pollinating insects, to more ambitious projects such as creating ponds and new wetlands – the people of Devon have shown that they love local nature and want to help it.”

People, schools, businesses and communities who qualify for a Wildlife Gardening Award receive an award plaque and a wildlife garden themed booklet packed with hints and tips for inspiration, plus a warm glow of satisfaction knowing that they are helping nature!

Jeremy Pyne works as a volunteer for the Greenspaces Team – a community-based environmental group based in Exminster, near Exeter. The Greenspaces Team gained a Wildlife Gardening Award in 2022. Jeremy says:

“We were delighted to apply for and be awarded our Wildlife Garden Award. We've worked hard to include features in our community orchard to help attract birds, butterflies, reptiles and more. With the plaque proudly displayed on our gatepost it also helps encourage visitors to do similar in their own gardens.” 

Katie Wilkinson says:

“There are 15 million gardens in the UK. Whether you have a large garden or a small balcony, outside spaces can provide vital stepping-stones for wildlife right across the landscape. If you have an outdoor space it can be made better for nature and our free on-line resources can help you achieve this.” 

A guide to getting your award is available here.