The plans for the Falls of Clyde include new self guided nature trails, an increased range of wildlife events and activities plus the creation of a new Visitor Experience Manager role. Full details of the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s plan for 2013 will be revealed in early spring when popular species such as peregrines, badgers and otters are best seen on the reserve.

The reserve features three waterfalls including the iconic Corra Linn and has over five miles of woodland trails. The Scottish Wildlife Trust purchased parts of the reserve in 1968 and has been adding to it while improving the woodland as a habitat for wildlife ever since.

The Visitor Centre will close on Christmas Eve and will re-open as a gateway to the wildlife reserve in mid March 2013.

Scottish Wildlife Trust Chief Executive Simon Milne said:

“We are committed to doing more at the Falls of Clyde to inspire people about the wildlife and habitats here. We will be improving the visitor experience with more self-guided trails and more ranger events on the reserve.

“The Falls of Clyde reserve lies within an hour’s travelling distance of around 70% of Scotland’s population. Alongside the adjoining World Heritage Site of New Lanark, this reserve is a fantastic day out.”

Lorna Davidson, Director of New Lanark Trust who manage the adjoining World Heritage Site said:

“We collaborate closely with the Scottish Wildlife Trust and look forward to continuing to build on our partnership.

“We hope that even more visitors to the New Lanark World Heritage Site will discover and enjoy the Falls of Clyde wildlife reserve in this very special part of the world. To quote Robert Owen – ‘the ever-changing scenes of Nature are among not only the most economical but also the most innocent pleasures that man can enjoy.’”