The Growers are bringing back into use unused land on Blakeney Hill, for the purpose of sustainable food production and recreation for families and individuals participating in the project.

We are a community group of like-minded people, living in the Forest of Dean area, seeking a healthier, more organic lifestyle.

We are creating a community garden that inspires and educates not only the participating families but also those that might visit or take part in our workshops. We seek to encourage children, young people and adults of all ages to work alongside each other. Volunteering is encouraged and facilitated. We are building links with the local youth clubs and schools to provide opportunity for learning new skills.

We are using part of our land to house goats, bees and chickens as well as space for a community vegetable plot, garden and orchard. We are producing a range of food products from goats milk, eggs, fruit and vegetables, and honey.

The project uses sustainable and wildlife friendly methods wherever possible with the ongoing health of the land and environment a priority. Restoring habitats for wild flowers, insects, birds, reptiles and mammals is a feature of our community garden vision.

This is a zero waste project with all materials and equipment bought being recycled, reclaimed or second hand in good condition wherever possible. Our waste materials are used in composting, food waste for feeding animals or recycled.

We hold regular teaching workshops on organic growing, composting, jam making and using or storing produce. Also sessions on seed planting, potting on, planting out and harvesting.

The project includes compost production, utilising the compostables from the garden and the waste animal bedding and goat and chicken manure. This part of the project may take in garden waste from participating households and compost it communally. It may be possible at some future date to take garden waste from other local gardens.

We are creating income opportunities and charge a membership fee to help cover costs.