Orchard Development Group

The aim of ODG is to

• identify all remnant and lost orchards in the Borders
• help communities and landowners to restore orchards, maintaing character and wildlife areas
• manage orchards as organic, sustainable, not-for-profit undertakings
• gather a collection of locally rare and old varieties
• train members of the local community in orchard management and associated orchard crafts, and encourage them to pass on their knowledge
• improve access to orchards, working with local schools, associations and community groups
• improve biodiversity within orchards
• work in partnership with local experts and organisations to develop ODG and other community orchards

ODG has been working hard to bring these ideas to fruition.

The group is assessing the demand for orchard restoration and maintenance in the Borders, and what type of organisation can best provide the necessary support.

We are also looking at the potential for such an organisation to provide the infrastructure for a successful local fruit economy and culture, including the potential for Community Supported Orchards and a Scottish national fruit collection.

We are very grateful to the Borders Forest Trust for their support and encouragement, and to the Big Lottery Fund for a Breathing Places grant that has enabled us to begin the work.