Who Founded Burge's Meadows?
After being diagnosed with incurable cancer last year at just 57, Mark Burges Watson founded Burge's Meadows shortly afterwards. He died peacefully on 12th January this year.
He founded the charity to create a positive, uplifting legacy for his family and to help people reconnect with the natural world.
This new charity reflects Mark's passion for restoring nature.
Reviving Nature
A combination of the World War II 'Dig for Victory' ploughing and drainage and the adoption of industrial agriculture in the '60s has culminated in an ever-greater reliance on fertilisers and pesticides today.
Colourful hay meadows - once rich in insects and wildflowers - have been replaced with high-protein grasses offering little refuge or food for wildlife.
The Vision
Burge's Meadows has a bold aim: to plant 1,000 acres of wildflower meadows between 2025 and 2035. We will be planting the first seeds this sowing season.
The charity's success will deliver one of the largest restorations of traditional hay meadows in England and Wales.
Spaces for nature are vital for human health and happiness. Many of the charity's meadow sites will be educational and inspiring, helping people reconnect with the natural world.
To encourage meadow planting, Burge's Meadows will offer non-refundable grants for suitable sites, contributing towards ecological advisory visits, wildflower seeds and other aspects of the work.
There are several ways that you can support Burge's Meadows:
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To make a donation or to become a Friend of Burge's Meadows, please click the button below.
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If you'd like to discuss donating or event sponsorship, please get in touch.
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Or sign up to our newsletter to hear about our meadow projects and events.
