A NEW community-led science project is set to launch next weekend in Wigtown.
Spearheaded by the Kilsture Forest Community Group, the Kilsture 1000 citizen science project aims to reach 1000 biological records recorded within the woods by the end of this summer.
The Wigtownshire forest is the largest patch of mixed woodland in the open countryside of The Machars. Over the spring and summer months, the group will be working with the community to find out more about the species that call the forest home.
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.
The launch event will be held in the Main Hall at Wigtown County Buildings from 3 pm to 4.30 pm on Saturday March 29. The family-friendly event will have wildlife-themed activities, nature crafts and short talks.
Looking ahead to the launch event, Elaine Rainey, project manager for the Kilsture 1000 project, said: “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!”
