Programme of Events from 1 September 2011

to the 31 December 2012

 Important information
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     These are mainly events raising funds to meet the Group’s target for money for RSPB projects, meeting members of the public to inform them of the aims of the RSPB and Group activities. The major fund raising events at the Sheffield Botanical Gardens include the sale of plants and refreshments provided by Group members, bird food, bird feeders, sales goods, and a variety of displays illustrating birds and conservation.

RSPB Projects for the year 2010 - 11
     This year we were aiming to raise £5000 for Upland Habitats from our fund raising events and sale of RSPB goods, so far (July 10), we have sent £2000 to The Lodge.
     Unfortunately due to bad weather and the non availability of the Botanical Gardens in September we were unable to add to this amount. However work has been carried out on the projects described in the paragraph below.

UPLAND HABITATS
     Nationally upland habitats are crucial to UK birds, especially in the North and Scotland where the majority of British upland is to be found. Uplands, or highlands, consist of a whole range of habitats from upland moors, farms, rocky outcrops and boggy areas. Upland blanket bogs in particular are under threat and especially important as the UK holds 10-15% of the entire world’s blanket bog habitats. These support Hen Harrier, Merlin, Golden Plover and Dunlin amongst others, but are at threat through grazing, drainage, and the introduction of non native plant and animal species.
     Around the RSPB Northern Region, much work is going on to increase these habitats including Dove Stone, where blocking ditches and sowing sphagnum moss is encouraging the stabilization of peat, crucial to these habitats. At Geltsdale upland vegetation is being managed to encourage Black Grouse in one of the only areas to see them in England, and in Northumberland 24 hour watches are being set up for Hen Harrier nests to help preserve this iconic upland bird and protect them from disturbance and persecution. Also a large area of conifer trees has been felled to enable the blanket bog to recover.  

RSPB Projects for the year 2011 - 12
      This year as a result of the Group member's ballot, the subject chosen was "Children and Education" and so far (Aug 2011) £4000 has been sent to the Lodge. We aim to raise a total of £6000 during 2011-2012
     School visits to RSPB Reserves help to ensure that future generations will care for our birds, wildlife and countryside. RSPB has more than 40 years experience in providing children with unforgettable wildlife encounters through the Living Classroom Scheme.
     Today we are proud that over 60,000 school children from all over the UK enjoy out-of-classroom learning every year. Our experienced field teachers lead safe and high quality visits that are designed to encourage curiosity so the children are able to explore the wonder and magic of nature for themselves, giving them real opportunities to better understand their natural world.

Children and Education - Regional Projects - 2011-12
     At Campfield Marsh, community consultation is taking place on the barn restoration project. We are working with local schools to determine what they would like to see when the barn is restored, and what sort of activities they can get involved in.
     At Geltsdale the Community Education Project is entering its last year, and will carry on delivering ongoing community engagement and education works. We hope to bring in a professional story teller to produce an illustrated booklet about Hen Harriers at Geltsdale.
     Bempton Cliffs particularly needs support for education this year as they are trying to develop a wider range of activities for children.
     At Leighton Moss we hope to be able to create a gateway garden in the car park at the rear of the visitor centre. This will be an inspiring place where children can explore independently with a pond, sensory plants, and willow tunnel etc. We will also increase the capacity of our education scheme with a gazebo, meaning we do not have to shut Lillian's hide when we get large school parties at the reserve..

Calendar of Events

     Assistance with manning our stall at these events is always welcome. If you can help, even for a short time, phone Helen Ensor (0114 269 8066)
Additions and alterations to the original programme shown in RED.