Like many other organisations this year, the Rother Environmental Group (REG) had its first ever digital AGM on Tuesday last week. Although there was a good attendance, it was sad to miss a few of the regular members owing to the technological constraints. For others though, the remote access makes it easier to attend.
The AGM itself was quite brief as usual, with Dominic Manning continuing as chair, Barbara Echlin taking over as secretary, Susan Wilson continuing as Treasurer and Nigel Jennings taking on the membership secretary role, after many years as an excellent secretary. Susan Wilson, Sue Burton and Pip Al-Khafaji were re-elected as trustees. REG is always looking to welcome new members, see https://greenerother.wordpress.com/membership/ Any members wishing to join the committee are welcome too.
Of necessity the activities in 2020 were much truncated, although REG gave a detailed response to Rother DC’s Draft Environmental Strategy consultation. The group continues to offer assistance to the council in its efforts to meet the expectations following the declaration of a climate emergency last year. Councillor Kathryn Field updated the group in July. Last month, Neil Kermode of the European Marine Energy Centre gave a fascinating talk from the Orkneys. REG has a lively programme lined up for 2021, further details to be posted on the website.
The AGM was followed by a wonderful talk by Chris Bentley from Sussex Wildlife Trust on the topic of gardening to encourage invertebrates. Advice includes for planting a wildflower meadow, digging a pond, growing native trees and shrubs, providing some areas of bare ground, making a log or leaf pile and even making ‘bee hotels’. Chris introduced us to a huge range of invertebrates, with amazing images. Everyone can do their bit to encourage biodiversity!
Image Credits: Charles J Sharp / sharpphotography https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51348998 CC BY-SA 4.0 .