Get Wild this Winter with Free Nature Events Across the Region

The Solway Coast and Marine Project (SCAMP) has unveiled an exciting programme of free events and training opportunities to connect local people with the unique coastal environments of Dumfries and Galloway.

Running from 19 February to 22 March, the Wild Winter programme features extraordinary and inspiring experiences including wildlife tracking workshops, aspen tree propagation, and opportunities to discover the rich maritime history of the Solway Firth, all available to enjoy free of charge.

A particular highlight is a unique biofluorescence walk at Kirkconnell Flow, where participants will use UV torches to witness the magical phenomenon of organisms emitting coloured light in the darkness.

Events will take place across multiple locations including Stranraer, Wigtown, and Annan, and the programme also includes marine biology talks, a workshop on saltmarsh ecology, a film screening of ‘Billy and Molly: An Otter Love Story’ in Stranraer, and two hybrid talks on the Solway coast, which can be attended in person or enjoyed online via livestream.

The events are being organised by the Solway Coast and Marine Project (SCAMP), an ambitious 15-year project led by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Environment Team and supported by NatureScot in collaboration with the Scottish Government and in partnership with the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The Wild Winter programme is delivered in partnership with Galloway Fisheries Trust, D&G Woodlands, AHAG (Annan Harbour Action Group), DAMP (Dumfries Archival Mapping Project) and Solway Firth Partnership.

Ian Blake, chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee said:
“Our coastal communities have told us they would like more knowledge, skills and training on how they could help their coastal and marine environments. The SCAMP team and our partners have put together a Wild Winter programme designed to meet this need and encourage people to take part in fun learning, and nature skills training in our Solway coast’s most remarkable and unique natural coastal habitats. From learning about tracking fish, mammals and wee creatures in saltmarsh and coastal woodlands, to imaging what might live under the Solway sea, there is something for everyone of all ages.”

Jackie McCamon, vice chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee added:
There are events in Annan, Wigtown and Stranraer providing lots of opportunities to take part in informative talks and discussions in-person or online. Learning through inputs from experts will help our communities to protect and enhance our coastal and marine environments.

“There will be talks about migratory routes of birds and the similarity to migratory routes for plastic, and opportunities to learn more about the Solway’s sea routes and the importance of ports like Annan. The team has pulled together a brilliant programme that is sure to be well attended.”

Clair McFarlan, Partnership Manager of Solway Firth Partnership, commented:
“The timing of this programme is particularly significant, as we witness increasing storms, coastal erosion, and changes in marine species distribution, we are keen to give people opportunities to connect positively with our important coastal habitats.

“Local communities have a really important role to play in understanding and protecting these environments. The Wild Winter programme is an exciting way for people to find out more about our natural heritage, including how they can personally get involved in practical activities that make a real difference.”

More information about the Wild Winter programme can be found on the SCAMP website: https://www.solwaycoastmarine.co.uk/wild-winter-programme/ and the project’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SolwayMarine. Event booking is via the Wild Winter Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/wild-winter-4004263

Clair McFarlan added:
“It’s free to take part in all of these events, but some activities do have restricted availability, so I’d urge anyone who is keen to get involved to book early to secure your space.”