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BTCV volunteers clearing vegetation from an overgrown section of the moat at Lochmaben Castle in Dumfries & Galloway.


Spring into action


This campaign has been running since 2004 and it’s now a key event in Scotland’s environmental calendar, with the number of projects and volunteers taking part increasing year on year. The aim of Action Earth is to encourage more people to take action to improve their local environment. The campaign supports projects that involve volunteers in practical action. Two grants are offered: a £50 ‘Action Earth’ award, and a £250 ‘Biodiversity’ award for projects that protect and improve Scotland’s variety of wildlife.


Last year, 7,200 volunteers helped on 300 projects around Scotland, including clean-ups, woodland planting and garden creation. Many different groups take part, and it’s clear from their feedback that the campaign is a valuable source of support and funding. “The grant was a great addition to our garden budget, which is tight,” remarked Lisa Archibold of New Horizons in the Borders. “It was a good opportunity to draw in new volunteers and recognise and celebrate their efforts.” The 2011 campaign kicks off in March. As well as 100 SNH biodiversity awards, the campaign now includes at least 15 awards of up to £500 for projects that involve volunteers at local nature reserves. Check it out at www.actionearth.org.uk/joomla


Bike and hike


Aileen Armstrong is a volunteer with Kirkhill and Bunchrew Community Trust near Inverness, which aims to take forward projects that bring social, economic or environmental benefits to the local community. The trust received funds to commission a design for two sections of an off-road path for cyclists and walkers. It will run between Beauly and Inverness, allowing local people to leave their cars at home and to travel safely by bike or on foot.


“There’s a wide range of skills, knowledge and goodwill available within our small community,” commented Aileen. “That made it possible for us to source and apply for funds, write a project brief, appoint consultants and then manage the project and budget. “We all learned from each other. But we also sought professional advice, when required, particularly from the local council team. It’s been challenging at times, but a rewarding experience for everyone involved.” To find out more, go to www.kirkhillandbunchrew.org.uk


“It's been challenging at times, but a


rewarding experience for everyone involved.”


If you’re interested in exploring the possibilities for a volunteer opportunity near you, the best place to start is your local volunteer centre. You can find out more at the Volunteer Scotland website www.volunteerscotland.org.uk/aboutUs.aspx And don’t worry – you won’t need to commit yourself if you don’t want to! Many organisations offer volunteers a ‘taster session’ so that you can decide whether it’s for you. Why not give it a try?


www.snh.gov.uk 15


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