|
|
|
|
|
|
Up close and personal with a bumblebee at Kinneil Estate. Thanks to Robert Snedden of Braveheart for the photo.
|
|
Welcome to IFLI's August 2017 eNewsletter
In this issue:
|
|
Every September IFLI organise the Inner Forth Festival, a month of free events hosted by ourselves and our partners which aims to encourage people to enjoy and celebrate the natural, cultural and built heritage the Inner Forth landscape offers - and 2017 is no different!
Whatever your age, interests or where you live, we have tried to make sure there is something for everyone this September. All the events are free to attend, thanks to the way we are funded by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund.
We are very grateful to the huge range of organisations and volunteers that have made the Festival possible by organising, running and supporting the month's events. We really couldn't do it without them!
September 1st sees the return of The Inner Forth From A New Perspective, where you can take a boat trip on the Maid of the Forth from South Queensferry to Kincardine and back again. You'll hear from the heritage specialists who have been working across the area with IFLI as we pass the areas up and down the river that have been the sites of IFLI projects over the past four years.
Photo: IFLI
Heritage walks will be taking place throughout the month and across the area, including at Culross, Valleyfield, Kennetpans Distillery and Charlestown. Each walk will be led by a local expert, and allow you to explore the historical value of these Inner Forth settlements, and find out the role they played in shaping the history of the River.
The Valleyfield walks will also coincide with an exciting archaeological project which we are undertaking with the Valleyfield Heritage Initiative, AOC Archaeology and Fife Council to uncover the remains of the Estate's stable complex. It's a great opportunity for anyone who wants to try practical archaeological and excavation work, and there are more details later in the newsletter.
We will also be continuing our series of popular wildlife ID workshops, where you can learn about Fungi with ecologist Ben Knowles, take part in two Survey Walks around important Inner Forth wildlife sites, and go hunting for bats at Stirling University.
There's also a series of events at Black Devon Wetlands, the new RSPB reserve in Alloa. Head down there to learn about the habitats and future plans for the site, take in the views of the Reserve from King's Seat Hill, and bring the family down to explore the array of wildlife that calls the Wetlands home.
Photo: RSPB
That's just a quick overview of September - check out our events calendar for more information and more events as they are added.
We hope you join us this September to celebrate the unique history, wildlife and people of this great part of the world!
|
|
Photo: IFLI
It was a busy but successful day at Wester Moss last month, as staff from Buglife, IFLI and a group of volunteers descended on the nature reserve in the hunt for the elusive and endangered bog sun-jumper spider. We were also joined by Falkirk MSP Angus McDonald, who serves as Buglife's 'Species Champion' for the spider. The team, armed with a 'bug vac' and sweep nets, were soon able to find two sun-jumpers, along with a host of other colourful species, including caterpillars, ladybirds and pseudoscorpions.
A selection of some of the species found at Wester Moss. Photo: Scott Shanks.
Notable for their ability to leap long distances and, as you can see above, their bright green palps and legs, the bog sun-jumper is an endangered species - one of the rarest in Britain, which is only found in six raised bog sites across the UK - five of which are in central Scotland. Events like this aim to raise awareness of the issues around the bog sun-jumper, and aid future conservation.
|
|
In August and September an exciting archaeological project will be taking place to uncover an important part of Valleyfield's heritage - and we're looking for volunteers to take part.
Valleyfield Estate map c1810.
Within Valleyfield Wood lies the remains of an historic estate landscape, once home to Sir Robert Preston (who oversaw the construction of Preston Island). The estate is the only one in Scotland designed by famous landscape architect Sir Humphrey Repton. The area which now makes up Valleyfield Wood was a 668 acre designed landscape, and was home to Preston's Valleyfield House, as well as several smaller structures which served as offices, stables and a doocot. This project aims to uncover some of that important heritage and share it with the wider community.
We're looking for people to join IFLI, the Valleyfield Heritage Initiative, and Fife Council on a community-led archaeological project to evaluate and excavate the remains of the stables complex which once formed part of the Estate. You don't need any prior experience or fancy equipment - all the work will be done under the supervision of professionals from AOC Archaeology and Fife Council, and you will get to try your hand at:
- archaeological excavation
- geophysical surveying
- measured drawing
- topographic surveying
- 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry
The initial surveying takes place in August, on the 22nd and 23rd, which will pave the way for five days of excavation during the Inner Forth Festival on the 7th and 11th September. There's no minimum or maximum to the number of days you can attend, so if you want to spend the full five days, or can only make one afternoon, you're still welcome to come along.
Booking is essential, please contact Kirsty McAlister on kirsty.mcalister@rspb.org.uk or call 01324 831568.
|
|
While it doesn't look very green at the moment, Buglife's second Glorious Green Roof is now taking shape at the newly-built Carrongrange School in Grangemouth. When finished, the green roof will provide a number of benefits to both local wildlife and the building itself, and will partner a similar roof built last year on the nearby Calachem building.
Green roofs are an excellent way to maintain wildlife habitats in built-up areas - almost 60 different species of wildflower, herbs and grasses have been planted on the Calachem roof, which attract a wide variety of butterflies, bees and other invertebrates. The green roof also provides natural insulation and cooling at different times of the year, reducing energy use in the buildings. And of course, there's the benefit to staff and pupils in both buildings of seeing a patch of nature flourish right outside their office or classroom.
Keep an eye on our social media channels to follow the progress of the Carrongrange green roof, which will be fully installed for the start of the new school year.
The green roof under construction. Photos: Buglife.
|
|
RSPB staff were saddened to discover on 19 July that the viewing screen at Black Devon Wetlands had been defaced overnight with graffiti, made worse by the fact that this was the third such incident in as many weeks. However, undeterred, and with the support of the local community, a clean-up event was quickly organised to deal with it.
Before and after. Photo: RSPB
Thankfully it didn't take as long as predicted to clean up and where the larch has been sanded it should weather in nicely over the next few weeks.
In more positive news from the Wetlands, a recent survey at the site has found the rare Yellow birds-nest, a strange plant with a complex life cycle, has found an accommodating habitat there. It was first found on the reserve in 2016, with 48 spikes found in a small area of scrubby woodland on the reserve - double the number from the same time last year.
Yellow birds-nest is unique in the way it gains energy. As it lacks chlorophyll it steals its nutrients from a type of fungi which in turn is gaining its food thanks to a mutual relationship with nearby trees. The plant normally flowers in early August, but this year seems to have been an early season for it, as many of the flowers have already dropped off, leaving just the fruiting bodies to be counted.
Photo: Hannah Sharratt, RSPB.
|
|
Among the target species this month is the Round-leaved sundew, a rather striking plant found on peat and lowland bogs. Its sticky dew - used to entrap the passing insects that this carnivorous plant feeds on - was once gathered for use as an ingredient in anti-aging creams. While we can't vouch for the effectiveness of this, we can recommend that if you spot a sundew, or any other of this month's target species, while out and about in the Inner Forth area that you take a note of it on iRecord using the website or the app. Every recording you make helps to create a better picture of the wildlife of the area.
For more information on these species, and the other wildlife that the Inner Forth has to offer visit the ever-growing Wildlife gallery to explore the different habitats, and find out more about the local species.
|
|
If you've been inspired by the Inner Forth landscape, and want to pass that feeling on to future generations, a vacancy with IFLI and the RSPB may be for you.
There are a few days left to apply for the Inner Forth Learning Officer role, a position with RSPB Scotland which aims to promote and deliver educational workshops to local schools, teaching them about the importance of the nature found right on their doorstep. They are looking for someone that understands the importance of getting children out into the natural environment, and who can think creatively about how best to engage schools in their local landscape.
If this sounds like you, or anyone you know, you can find out more information on the RSPB Vacancies page here.
Photo: RSPB
|
|
IFLI have launched a new online feature which will help you to get out and explore everything that the Inner Forth has to offer.
Our new interactive map gives you an overview of the huge variety of habitats, historical sites, walking routes and IFLI projects which have made the area so special.
Think of it as a hub for Inner Forth information. Using the 'Things to See' box on the upper right-hand side you can toggle different layers on and off to explore your specific interests; or you can zoom in on a specific area to see what is on your doorstep.
It's not the only new feature on our website, though - over the past few months we've added an index of walking and cycling routes around the area, a gallery of fantastic art and photographs submitted by the public (and we're always looking for more), and information pages about the different wildlife species that call the Inner Forth home.
Follow the links and have fun exploring the Inner Forth!
|
|
Coming soon: the IFLI Photography Competition 2017
The shortlist from last year's competition.
We're pleased to announce the return of our annual photography competition, which is back for a third year with the theme 'The Forth From A New Perspective'
Since 2014 IFLI have worked to help people re-evaluate, re-consider and better understand the fantastic landscape around them. That's why we're asking people to take part in our latest photography competition - to share your own examples of areas of the Inner Forth that you may have a new understanding or appreciation for. Or, perhaps there's a place or feature you feel is still undervalued, and you want to allow people to see it from a new perspective.
However you choose to approach it, we always love to see new images of the landscape.
Entries for the competition will be accepted throughout September, during the Inner Forth Festival (1st-30th) with voting to take place afterwards. Keep an eye on our website, Facebook and Twitter accounts for updates, prizes and more information.
|
|
Come and Try A Survey Walk at Fallin Bing
Thursday 10 August, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Fallin Bing
Discover new wildlife hotspots and help build a better picture of the nature of the Inner Forth. More info.
Conservation Volunteering with the RSPB
Friday 11 August, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Skinflats Nature Reserve
Gain practical conservation training and help preserve wildlife habitats around the Inner Forth. Second Friday and last Saturday of every month. More info.
Moths Around The Forth 3
Saturday 12 August, 8:30am - 10:30am
Devilla Forest
Would you like to learn more about the moths of the Inner Forth area? More info.
Bumblebee ID Workshop
Monday 14 August, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Balallan House
Learn the variety of bee species in the UK and visit some bee-friendly habitats. More info.
Introduction to Leaf Beetles
Thursday 17 August, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Balallan House
A Buglife workshop introducing the Leaf Beetle family, and passing on some ID skills. More info.
Moths Around The Forth 4
Sunday 20 August, 8:30am - 10:30am
Location TBC
Would you like to learn more about the moths of the Inner Forth area? More info.
SWT Cambus Pools Open Day
Sunday 20 August, 11:00am - 3:00pm
Cambus Pools
Join the local SWT group for a day celebrating their Cambus Pools site and the wildlife found there. More info.
Rediscovering Valleyfield Estate's 'Lost' Stables: Survey
Tuesday 22/Wedneday 23 August, 9:30am - 3:30pm
Valleyfield Woods
Become a volunteer archaeologist and unearth the remains of an historic stable block. More info.
Clackmannanshire Field Studies Society Summer Walk
Wednesday 23 August, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Gartmorn Dam
*Re-arranged from 12 July* Part of a series of walks exploring the industrial heritage of Clacks. More info.
Sustrans Wildlife Walk
Wednesday 30 August. 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Mar Place car park, Sauchie
Discover the wildlife that thrives alongside the Sustrans National Cycle Routes. More info.
The Inner Forth Festival 2017
The Inner Forth From A New Perspective
Friday 1 September, 3:30pm - 7:30pm
Hawes Pier, South Queensferry
Join this cruise on the River Forth to find out about the projects that make up the Initiative. More info.
Siege On The Forth
Saturday 2/Sunday 3 September, 12pm - 4pm
Blackness Castle
Storm Blackness Castle for a family weekend in this historic structure which guards the Forth. More info.
Culross Heritage Walk
Monday 4 September, 6.30pm
Culross
Explore the fascinating history of Culross and learn about its past as an international port. More info.
Bushcraft, Bats and Bonfire
Tuesday 5 September, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
RSPB Skinflats Reserve
An evening of family fun with a bonfire and bat safari. More info.
Bridgeness Biodiversity Volunteer Day
Wednesday 6 September, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Bridgeness Shipbreakers
Help conserve an important wildlife habitat with Buglife Scotland. More info.
Bo'ness Foreshore Walk with Braveheart
Wednesday 6 September, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Bo'ness Foreshore
Join IFLI and Braveheart for a walk taking in views of woodland and meadows. More info.
Rediscovering Valleyfield Estate's 'Lost' Stables: Excavation
Thursday 7 to Monday 11 September, 9:30am - 4:00pm
Valleyfield Woods
Become a volunteer archaeologist and unearth the remains of an historic stable block. More info.
Valleyfield Estate Heritage Walk
Thursday 7 and Sunday 10 September, 2:00pm
Valleyfield Woods
A guided walk through the historic Valleyfield Estate. More info.
Black Devon After Dark
Saturday 9 September, 8:00pm - 10:00pm
Black Devon Wetlands
Head down to RSPB Black Devon Wetlands and see what the wildlife gets up to once the sun sets. More info.
Photography Walk and Print-Making Workshop
Saturday 9 September, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Valleyfield Community Centre
Explore Valleyfield Woods, take photos, and then make ink prints using natural materials gathered from the site. More info.
Wetland Wander - Guided Walk
Sunday 10 September, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Black Devon Wetlands
Join RSPB staff on a Wetland Wander to find out more about the future plans for the Black Devon site. More info.
Mossy Moths
Friday 15/Saturday 16 September
Wester Moss
Come along to see the marvellous moths that live at Wester Moss, and pop back on the Saturday morning to inspect the moth traps left out overnight. More info.
Fungi ID Workshop
Saturday 16 September, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Clackmannanshire (location TBC)
A fungal foray by the Forth with ecologist Chris Knowles. More info.
Kinneil House Open Day
Saturday 16 September, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Kinneil Estate
Tour the historic home of the Dukes of Hamilton and see the impressive Renaissance wall paintings. More info.
Chainsaw Carving
Saturday 16 September, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Kinneil Estate
Come and watch a chainsaw artist create a piece for the Estate. More info.
Great British Beach Clean
Sunday 17 September, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Limekilns
Take part in MCS's annual Great British Beach Clean and help conserve an Inner Forth beach. More info.
Kennetpans Guided Walk
Tuesday 19 September, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Kennetpans
Tour Kennetpans Distillery, which played a vital and important role in the industrial past of the Inner Forth. More info.
Come and Try Survey Walk
Wednesday 20 September, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Kinneil Estate
Discover new wildlife hotspots and help build a better picture of the nature of the Inner Forth. More info.
Spirits, Ships and Smuggling: A River's Tale
Thursday 21 September, 3:00pm - 7:00pm
Alloa Harbour
Join us aboard the Maid of the Forth for a journey into the Forth's fantastic past. More info.
Nocturnal Safari
Friday 22 September, 7:15pm
Kinneil Estate
A walk at dusk to uncover the wildlife that comes out after dark. More info.
Introduction to Fungi Microscopy
Saturday 23 September, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Clackmannan County CC
Some fungi can be identified by field characteristics and spore prints - but what about those that can't? Learn about the basics of microscopy as an ID technique on this workshop. More info.
Photography Walk and Print-Making Workshop
Saturday 23 September, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Clackmannan Town Hall
Explore the woods around Clackmannan, take photos, and then make ink prints using natural materials gathered from the site. More info.
Castle to Coast
Saturday 23 September, 10:30am
Clackmannan Tower
Take in the views from King's Seat Hill and then head down to the Wetlands Reserve with RSPB staff. More info.
Family Fun at RSPB Black Devon Wetlands
Saturday 23 September, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Black Devon Wetlands
Explore the wetland reserve and learn about the local wildlife at this family fun day. More info.
Clackmannan Tower Doors Open Day
Sunday 24 September, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Clackmannan Tower
Part of the nationwide Doors Open Day programme, explore the historic Clackmannan Tower and take in views across the Forth and Ochils. More info.
Charlestown Heritage Walk
Monday 25 September, 2:00pm
Charlestown Limekilns
This guided walk around Charlestown - a planned village designed in the 1750s to house kiln workers - will let you explore the fascinating past of the village. More info.
Mini Handloom Weaving
Tuesday 26 September, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Alloa Tower
Join local artist Justine Bainbridge for a workshop on making miniature handloom weavings inspired by the local landscape. More info.
Family Bat Evening
Wednesday 27 September, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Stirling University
Find out more about the bats that call the Inner Forth home during this evening at the University of Stirling. More info.
Clackmannan To Kennetpans Walk
Thursday 28 September, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Clackmannan High Street
A five mile guided walk taking in the farmland and woodland between Clackmannan, as well as the historic Distillery site. More info.
Come and Try a Survey Walk at Devilla
Friday 29 September, 10:00am - 12:00pm
FCS Devilla Car Park
Discover new wildlife hotspots and help build a better picture of the nature of the Inner Forth. More info.
Conservation Volunteering with the RSPB
Saturday 30 September, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Skinflats Nature Reserve
Gain practical conservation training and help preserve wildlife habitats around the Inner Forth. Second Friday and last Saturday of every month. More info.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
