Sea Watch Grampian - 2008
Kevin Hepworth - local representative of Sea Watch Foundation gave a verbal and slide presentation covering some of the activities undertaken in
Cetacean monitoring along the coast of Aberdeenshire species observed include two types of dolphin, porpoise, minke whale, Orca (killer) whale and
humpback whale.
Activities undertaken include monitoring along the coast at regular intervals, plus education to enable, and co-ordination of, volunteer activities.
The Foundation is a national marine environmental research charity working to improve the conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around
Britain and Ireland. Aims are - Involve the public in scientific monitoring - Raise awareness and understanding of marine mammals and the threats
they face - Educate, inform and advise for better environmental protection. - By monitoring the numbers and locations of whales and dolphins gain
valuable knowledge of the health of our marine environment and insight into the effects of chemical pollution, noise disturbance, over-fishing,
accidental capture in fishing gear, and climate change.
Worthy of an award for involvement of interested individuals and educational elements
Dr W. Seel, North Tillydaff , Midmar - 2005
Creation of areas for wildlife at North Tillydaff; part of a neighbouring farm was purchased to pre-empt use as a waste disposal site, this has now
been planted under native woodland.
Community woodland development in co-operation with Forest Enterprise, a group of volunteers has been involved in developing view-points, parking
facilities, woodland walks and wetland areas, to enable enjoyment of the woods and wildlife while minimising disturbance. Local youth and other
voluntary groups have been involved in planting, manufacture and siting of bird and bat boxes. The woodland is also used by orienteers and other
outdoor activists.
Slains Primary School - 1993 (Green Gordon Award)
The pupils at the school worked hard to create a wildlife area within the school grounds. This included planting hedges, making a pond and creating
wild flower beds
Dr & Mrs Stephen - 2003
Over a number of years, the Stephens have put a great deal of time and effort into 'creative conservation' on their croft, always working with the
good of wildlife and the natural environment in mind, establishing a wildlife oasis in Buchan. They have made two large ponds, developed wetland
areas, planted a range broadleaf trees and created a winter feeding area for migratory and resident birds by planting a range of seed bearing and
winter green plants (also appreciated by other local wildlife). Over the years a remarkable increase in numbers and variety of bird species has be
achieved and a sanctuary for other wildlife established.
The Horizon Group aims to enhance and improve the environs of Stonehaven. This year the group created a wildflower meadow in part of a neglected
grassy area bordering walkways situated on Stonehaven Bay. Advice was taken on wildflowers suitable for a coastal environment which would also
attract insects and butterflies. Large boulders and rocks were transported from a nearby quarry to help stabilise the area and provide shelter for
the plants. Over 500 wildflowers were planted and it is hoped they will self-seed. In 2006 intention is to extend the meadow to areas adjoining this
year's project.
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John Strachan, Tullo Farm - 1991 (Green Gordon Award)
A working farm near Oldmeldrum run by John Strachan, who has created many wildlife conservation features including ponds and hedges.
Strathdon Primary School, Wildlife Area - 1994 (Green Gordon Award)
The staff and pupils together with parents have created a fine area for wildlife in the school grounds. A wee bird hide overlooks a pond, and many
trees have been planted, a real community effort.
Strathburn Primary School - 2008
Combined Award for Environmental DVD and Wildlife Conservation Projects
Environmental DVD
The school decided to make a DVD on aspects of the environment as part of the learning process for their P 5 class topic on Pollution and Conservation.
As part of this project, the children carried out research tasks into aspects of the environment these being Air, Land, Water, Transport and Waste
including litter.
The children gathered the information using library and internet resources in addition to having guest speakers from industry at the school,
supplemented by some site visits. The project findings were produced in the form of a DVD which, we understand, will be distributed to other schools
in Aberdeenshire and further afield. The P5 children are the presenters on the DVD.
The project raised awareness of wide environmental and waste issues in the P5 class, the families and friends of the children involved and in the
wider school population. The DVD was filmed and produced by the Media Unit of Aberdeenshire Council.
Wildlife Conservation and Environmental Care
Operation of a gardening club with selected pupils. Growing own vegetables then making soup and selling to the teachers. Raised and released
butterflies, frogs and ladybirds. Local rainbows helped us make insect and bee hotels. Saved a wildlife meadow. Recycle fruit and vegetables (play pieces)
for compost bins every day. The Bennachie Ranger helped make nest boxes. Hope to build a pond this year.
Strichen Community Park Company - 2005
Restoration of a brown field cement works site to create a recreational area on the edge of the village. Drystane dykes have been stabilised and
repaired, a path network has been established, lake has been restored and strategically fenced to provide safe areas for water fowl which have
established communities. Bird boxes, bat boxes and hedgehog woodpiles have been positioned around the park. Viewpoints and picnic areas have been
established with seats and tables built from recycled wood.
SWT, Aberdeen and Kincardine Branch - 1995 (Green Gordon Award)
This local branch of the Scottish Wildlife Trust has done a great deal of excellent work in the field of nature conservation throughout the district.
They have purchased Gight Wood overlooking the Ythan near Methlick and will manage it for wildlife and people.
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