Volunteers play a vital role within The Scottish Wildlife Trust and this week I would like to talk about the various ways you can get involved with our work in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Valley region.

Each month we host practical conservation days at Loch Ardinning WIldlife Reserve. This picturesque reserve has a range of habitats and is a great place to try see butterflies and dragonflies. You may even be lucky enough to spot a black grouse on your visit!

To join in you don’t need any experience, so if you’re looking to get your hands dirty and learn some practical skills such as footpath maintenance and invasive species control then why not come along. Upcoming sessions will be held on Saturday 1 September and Sunday 7 October. If you’d like to help out please contact Graham Lewis.

The Trust also has a local group based in Clarkston and East Kilbride that can keep you updated on wildlife in the nearby area and provide opportunities to learn new skills and knowledge. Group discussions will focus on nearby reserves, such as Loch Libo or Cathkin Marsh, whilst volunteering opportunities include hosting open days and practical conservation tasks. If you would like to find out how to get involved please email the Clarkston and East Kilbride District Group.

Here at Falls of Clyde we also have a group of local volunteers that meet each Tuesday to help out with practical tasks around the reserve. Our work ranges from repairing the boardwalk and fencing to managing overgrown vegetation and invasive species,  not forgetting the odd cup of tea in between of course! There’s plenty to get stuck into at Falls of Clyde so if you’re interested in helping out please email us.

Jenny Mann, Falls of Clyde Assistant Ranger
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