Eco camping and doing our bit for the environment

We don't make a big deal about it but we like to run Ty Parke as an eco-campsite. We really care about looking after the environment. We don't pesticides, herbicides or chemical fertilisers - so there are plenty of weeds here! We purposely do not trim the banks very often, so they're not all neat and tidy but are teeming with wildlife. We recycle as much as possible - including plastic and encourage campers to do the same. Recycling bins are available for glass, tin cans, plastic, paper, as well as organic waste.

Solar panels and conserving resources
In 2009 we fitted solar panels to the barn roof. The solar panels now heat the hot water for the showers and washing-up facilities. We are also looking at rainwater harvesting and composting loos (for the hideaway camping pitches we have planned for 2010). We use low-energy light bulbs (on timers) everywhere and ask that campers use water sparingly (a) because we are metered and (b) because all of us are generally very wasteful with water, so it's a good habit to get into.

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Badger sets and buzzards
There are at least three very active badger sets here - one of which is in the bank adjacent to the camping field. Buzzards are always around - often heard before they are seen because of their distinctive, lonely call. You may catch sight of an early morning fox or the owl that lives down in the 'rough'. Most of our sheep are very friendly - many have names and are part of the family. The hens and attentive cockerels scratch around wherever they please - but sometimes finding their eggs can be a problem. Our two dogs, Daisy and Poppy are also very friendly. Poppy loves to play ball with the children late into the summer evenings.

Campsite nature trail
The campsite has direct access to our little nature trail that winds its way through an area of around five acres. We have intentionally left this area for many years to encourage its diversity of wildlife. All campers are very welcome to explore the trail. There are a few signs to help you find your way through. In 2010 we are making a childrens play den and a picnic spot in the trail.

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We've planted over 3,000 new trees since 2007
Early in 2007 we planted over 2,500 new trees into another area of about five acres - part of which borders the campsite. At the beginning of 2009 we planted a further 500 trees. These are already helping to add further to the diversity of the flora and fauna. In 2010 we will open up a footpath through the new trees so you can see close-up how the trees are coming along. In a county that is more renowned for its dramatic coastline than for its trees, we hope that the establishment of this small woodland will mature for future generations to enjoy.