CommonsWood Nature Watch
Commonswood Nature Watch (CNW) came into being in 1994 with a meeting between two parents and the Head teacher of Commonswood School whose aim was to raise awareness of the local environment and to care for its wildlife. From this modest beginning has grown a thriving group supported by a dedicated committee.
The groups early days were based in and around the school grounds supporting the teaching of the environmental parts of the National Curriculum at junior level. Several projects were carried out including, setting up of the wildlife area with two ponds and large bird hide.
Looking to expand, CNW struck a partnership with Thames Water and received funding to manage their two acres of land at the southern boundary of the school which continued till 2009 when it was transferred to Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and is now included as part of the Commons Local Nature Reserve.
The establishment of the Commons Local Nature Reserve in 1998 brought a huge responsibility to the shoulders of the group, one that they have risen to. Their partnership with Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council works well with benefits gained by both parties.
CNW is alert and active in any proposals that affect the locality, in this way; it acts as a watchdog for the local community. All members are dedicated to the care of the reserve to benefit local people and to ensure that the natural environment is respected and managed.