Kilsture Forest Community Group is launching an exciting new citizen science project to learn more about the biodiversity of Kilsture Forest.
Located in Wigtownshire, Kilsture Forest is the largest patch of mixed woodland in the open countryside of The Machars. Since forming as a charity in 2020, the community group has been working as co-custodians of the forest alongside the landowners Forestry and Land Scotland. Over the Spring and Summer months, the group will be working with the local community to find out more about the species that call Kilsture Forest home.
The Kilsture 1000 citizen science project aims to reach one thousand biological records recorded within the woods by the end of Summer 2025. The community has already logged an impressive 865 species over the years including birds, bats and fungi and in this latest push the group will be organising a range of expert-led training, surveying, recording and volunteering opportunities open to all. There will be a public launch event in the Main Hall at Wigtown County Buildings from 3.00-4.30 p.m. on Saturday 29th March 2025.
Elaine Rainey, Project Manager for the Kilsture 1000 project, says:
“We are delighted to launch the Kilsture 1000 citizen science project and would encourage anyone with an interest in helping out to come along to our launch event on Saturday 29th March. There, we’ll have a range of stalls and speakers showcasing the training and volunteering opportunities available through the project. From moths to amphibians, trees to bumblebees and everything in between – you don’t need any prior identification knowledge, just an interest in getting out into nature and learning more. Volunteering opportunities are completely flexible to suit your interests and time commitments. We’ll train you up and support you all the way!”
The launch event is family-friendly with wildlife-themed activities, nature crafts and short talks. Refreshments provided.
Booking not required. For further information on the Kilsture 1000 project, contact the Project Manager Elaine Rainey via [email protected] or join the Kilsture Forest Community Group on Facebook and Instagram.
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