Beyond the Fence (BTF) started with one individual with the desire to encourage their community to look beyond the fence of their own backyards. Now, with the help of Gecko Trust, over 1250 properties in the Birkenhead and Northcote area are involved! Gecko has worked with BTF to raise awareness surrounding the need for weed and pest control on private land, as at least half of the neighbourhood’s biodiversity is on private land. BTF also has a strong focus on preserving the natural biodiversity of their local, urban reserve – Le Roys Bush.
Gecko has assisted BTF in achieving their goals by helping them organise educational walks, as well as managing pest animals and plants. The group has a strong social focus, which BTF founder, Linda, says has benefited from Gecko’s involvement, and created a ‘vibrant community spirit.’ By engaging both private landowners and the wider community, Gecko has ‘enhanced what BTF is able to do,’ resulting in more effective control of pests.
Some examples of Gecko’s work with Beyond the Fence include a popular ‘Wine & Weeds’ event, which is a celebration of community cooperation and an opportunity to learn about weed identification and control. Beyond the Fence also runs a regular rat programme, in conjunction with Friends of Le Roys Bush, which controls rats on private properties surrounding the reserve. The program is a method of effectively controlling rats through regular management.
Check out the Beyond the Fence Facebook page here to stay updated with their latest events.
Do you want to start up a community group similar to this, but don’t know where to start? Connect with Gecko Trust to find out how we can help geckonztrust@gmail.com
Supported by an Auckland Council Regional Environment and Natural Heritage Grant
