The Dumfries and Galloway Gardens & Nurseries Association was set up early in 2003. There are now 20 garden and nursery members, and a further 3 members with an interest in actively promoting horticulture in the region. The association has a formal constitution recognised by the three public bodies in Dumfries and Galloway (the council, the Tourist Board (DGTB) and the regional enterprise group). We rely on making use of the collective skills, experience, contacts and time of our members.

We have made good progress to date. Achievements include:
• Organising a very successful plant fair at Threave Gardens last June, which attracted 2,500 people. Two similar events are being organised for Threave (June) and Logan (August) in 2004.
• Closer liaison with the Tourist Board. As a recognised group, we have raised the profile and importance of gardens, and have influenced the 2004 Gardens in Bloom Guide and PR campaigns.
• This professionally constructed website (www.scotlands-garden.org.uk).
• Commitment to take a promotional stand at the Scotland Garden Show at Ingliston, Edinburgh, in June.
• Provision of unified advice and experience to the Galloway Garden Festival committee.
• Circulation of a pack of promotional leaflets to prominent garden writers as well as many bi-lateral agreements and intangible benefits arising from closer working relationships.

Aims of the Association
The purpose of the Association is to promote the gardens and nurseries of Dumfries and Galloway for the benefit of visitors and the local economy.
In furtherance of the above, the Association shall:
• Work with tourist organisations and other agencies to disseminate information about the gardens and nurseries of the region.
• Provide an informed horticultural 'voice', to present the opinions and needs of the Association's members, to administrative bodies and other interested parties.
• Share information between members and co-ordinate activities within the Association to the mutual benefit of its members and the wider community.
• Encourage the pursuit of gardening and garden-visiting within the region and nationally.
• Actively seek funding and other support to develop the horticultural economy of the region

Qualification for Membership
Membership is open to those involved in the ownership or management of horticultural establishments in Dumfries and Galloway, open to the public, and to those with an interest in the horticultural development of the region. An annual membership fee of £10, to cover running expenses, will be due at the start of each financial year. If you would be interested in becoming a member, please contact any of the officials in the table below.

Officials for year April 2003 to March 2004

Chairman: Michael Wickenden (Cally Gardens)
Vice-chairman: Susan McClelland (Deanston Nursery)
Treasurer: Rob Asbridge (Buckland Plants)
Secretary: David Roberts (Woodfall Gardens)
Committee Member: Val Smith (Cairnsmore Nursery)