News and events

In this section:

BAG Newsletter

Latest News

Review of the BAG Annual Forum Event (Big BAG)

Over 50 people attended this year’s annual forum event (fondly referred to as the Big BAG) hosted by the Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group (BAG) partnership at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre (just to the north west of Retford). The event took place on Thursday 28th January and was themed around the ‘Nottinghamshire LBAP: past, present and future’.

The day involved a series of presentations during the morning sessions and a site visit around the Idle Valley Nature Reserve during the afternoon. The event was opened by Bryn Jones, Mayor of Retford.

To view the event programme follow this link.

To view presentations from the event follow the links below.

Ten years of the Nottinghamshire LBAP - Chris Jackson (1,660 kb)

Action on Heathlands in Nottinghamshire - Norma Saunders (2,442 kb)

Barn Owls: A local success story - Howard Broughton (12,794 kb)

Langford and Beckingham: Futurescapes in the Trent Valley - Michael Copleston (18,119 kb)

Landscape Scale Conservation: the way forward for biodiversity - Janice Bradley (awaiting presentation)

Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group Update - Chris Jackson (582 kb)

Site Visit from the afternoon of Thursday 28th January

For more information on the Idle Valley Nature Reserve please follow this link

Japanese Knotweed Survey 2009 Results

Japanese Knotweed is a non-native invasive species of plant. Since it was introduced into the UK as an ornamental garden plant in the mid nineteenth century it has spread across the UK. It is commonly found on previously developed land, post-industrial sites and railways. It is also commonly seen on roadsides and along watercourses such as canals, rivers, streams and ditches.

Plants within their native range are usually controlled by a variety of predators, natural pests and diseases. When these plants are introduced into areas free of these natural controls they can become larger and more vigorous. They invade natural habitats and out compete the native plants that live there. Rivers, hedges, roadsides and railways form important corridors for native plants and animals to migrate and large infestations of non-native weeds can block these routes for wildlife, and take up important niches in which our native flora could otherwise exist.

During 2009 the Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group (BAG) partnership undertook a countywide survey of Japanese Knotweed, Fallopia japonica. The aim of the survey has been to try to build up a better picture of the distribution of Japanese Knotweed within Nottinghamshire. By understanding the distribution and extent of Japanese Knotweed within the county it will enable the BAG partnership to target its resources to tackle patches of Japanese Knotweed that are the biggest threat to the counties biodiversity.

As a result of the survey 397 completed survey forms were returned and from these 377 different locations for Japanese knotweed were identified. Of these locations eight patches of Japanese Knotweed were identified on four Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI’s). SSSI’s are some of the best sites in the country for their biodiversity and so it is important that plants such as Japanese Knotweed are controlled, and ultimately removed from these sites. All the site managers of these SSSI’s have been made aware of the presence of Japanese Knotweed and the plant will be managed to prevent its spread and to try to eradicate it from the sites. In addition 57 patches of Japanese Knotweed were identified on 37 Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation, (SINC’s). The partnership is currently looking at ways of ensuring that these patches are also brought under control.

The majority of the locations reported came from the west of the county where the major urban areas are found, this was not unexpected as Japanese Knotweed is commonly found on derelict land commonly associated with cities and towns.

The main concentrations of Japanese Knotweed were found in the urban catchments of both the River Leen in Nottingham and the River Maun in Mansfield. The reason for this may be twofold. Firstly and as indicated above, urban areas tend to be strongholds for Japanese Knotweed as it can be easily spread by fly tipping and poor site management. In addition it may be that Japanese Knotweed was much more readily reported from these urban areas where there is a larger population and more chance of people coming into contact with the plant.

Many thanks to everyone who has sent in records as part of the Japanese Knotweed survey. The information will be passed on to the Nottinghamshire Biological and Geological Records Centre and will also be made available to the public through the National Biodiversity Network website (www.nbn.org.uk).

It is still not too late to report any sightings of Japanese Knotweed that you have made in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire so if you do see a patch that you would like to report please send your information to us.

To find out more about the identification features of Japanese Knotweed please have a look at the Japanese Knotweed code of practice pages 10-11 produced by the Environment Agency. To download an electronic version of the survey form please click on the following link Notts BAG Japanese Knotweed Survey Form. When undertaking surveys please try to get the permission of the landowner before visiting sites and do not trespass. Completed forms can be sent in their electronic form to biodiversity@nottscc.gov.uk or paper copies can be sent to the Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group, c/o Conservation Group, NCC, Trent Bridge House, Fox Road, West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, NG2 6BJ.

Bioblitz 2010 at Rushcliffe Country Park

Bioblitz logo

Following the successful staging of Britain’s first ever BioBlitz back in 2006, the Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group is planning an even bigger wildlife spectacular at Rushcliffe Country Park, Ruddington this summer.

The aim of BioBlitz is to count as many species of plants, animals, fungi and other organisms as possible at one site over a 24 hour period, and like in previous years, local scientists, naturalists and volunteers will be counting everything from bugs to bats.

As well as counting species to assess the wildlife value of this popular site, Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group will be organising a series of events and activities designed to help people learn more about wildlife in their local area, and to appreciate the importance of making records of what they see. The activities will be designed to encourage members of the public to be involved in helping to record as many species as possible during the event.

In 2006, Colwick Country Park hosted the first Bioblitz event and this was followed up by another successful Bioblitz at Rufford Country Park in 2008. Partners of the Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group will be staging BioBlitz 2010 at Rushcliffe Country Park over a 24 hour period centred on Sunday 18th July, with activities starting late in the evening on Saturday 17th July.

This year’s event will be one of the activities held in Nottinghamshire that will be celebrating the UN’s International Year of Biodiversity.

Speaking on behalf of the Partnership Chris Jackson commented:

The starting point for all wildlife conservation is accurate records - without information about which species are present at a location it is very difficult to plan effective site management or to ensure species survival. Through BioBlitz we hope to remove some of the myth and mystery about wildlife recording and hope to enthuse a whole new generation of Attenboroughs and Bellamys into the bargain.”

Mr Jackson continued: “Bioblitz is also a great way to remind people of the tremendous variety of life - biodiversity – that exists here in the UK. Wildlife can be found all around us, whether in our towns and cities, parks and gardens or in nature reserves and the wider countryside, and we hope to get this message across through the Bioblitz event in July.”

UK List of Priority Species and Habitats

After two years of work involving in excess of 500 people, the proposed UK List of Priority Species and Habitats was presented in a UK BAP website report in June 2007. The Priorities Species and Habitats Review Working Group and the Priorities Review Group recommended that this list was formally adopted. The Governments of all four UK administrations have now adopted the recommendations of experts and published the UK list of priority species and habitats. The new UK BAP list is an important reference source, bringing all the scientific information on UK BAP species and habitats together in one place.

This list, a result of the most comprehensive analysis ever undertaken in the UK, contains 1149 species and 65 habitats that have been listed as priorities for conservation action under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP).

To find out more visit the UKBAP website - www.ukbap.org.uk

The Biodiversity Duty

Guidance on the biodiversity duty under Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC), was published on 22nd May 2007 by Defra.

The aim of the biodiversity duty is to raise the profile of biodiversity in England and Wales, eventually to a point where biodiversity issues become second nature to everyone making decisions in the public sector.

All public authorities are affected, including over 900 public bodies local authorities, fire, police and health bodies, museums and transport authorities.

Defra has worked with a wide range of partners, including Natural England, Countryside Council for Wales, the Local Government Association, Wildlife and Countryside Link and others on developing guidance to support public authorities in implementing this duty.

In recognition of the key role local authorities play with regard to conserving and enhancing biodiversity, there are two sets of guidance:

specific guidance aimed at the needs and requirements of local authorities; and
more generic guidance aimed at all public authorities affected.

Workshops with local authorities, regional bodies and other public bodies were held in November 2006 to engage those affected and to inform the development of the guidance.

The guidance is intended to assist public authorities to implement the biodiversity duty. It provides advice on different activities and functions of public sector organisations and includes a number of case studies which illustrate what can be done to have regard to biodiversity.

The guidance is available on the Defra website at: www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/biodiversity/

BAG Newsletter

Find out the latest news from the BAG partnership by reading the quaterly newsletter below.

May 2009 Newsletter (PDF Document 488KB)

December 2008 Newsletter (PDF Document 652KB)

April 2008 Newsletter (PDF Document1,086KB)

January 2008 Newsletter (PDF Document 391KB)

Wildlife Events, Guided Walks and Talks.

Saturday 13th March - Winter Bird Walk

Join us for a walk around the Reserve and find out more about the wonderful birds that are around during the winter, followed by some delicious home-made soup. £10 per person including soup. Booking essential. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. Meet 10.30 am at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Monday 15th March - British Wildlife

A night of entertainment and education awaits with the Beeston Wildlife Group. The knowledgeable and witty photographer Sean Browne will be exhibiting and talking about his beautiful pictures of wildlife. Admission £2 including refreshments. Contact: Bill Wheatley 0115 925 0208. 7.30pm at Trent Vale Infants School, Beeston Rylands, Nottingham.

Tuesday 16th March - Birds of the Trent Valley

The River Trent is the third longest river in England. The sheer scale of it means that the Trent Valley is an extremely valuable area for wildlife, including birds. Join the Worksop Local Group in finding out more about the diverse and fascinating bird varieties to be found along the Trent, with a talk by David Parkin. Contact: Willie Milne 01909 472 458 or Alvin Green 01909 476 276. 7.30pm at Stanley Street Sports and Social Club, Worksop.

Wednesday 17th March - Consuming nature: Sociology, you, and nature

Part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science, this FREE event is organised by the School of Social Sciences at Nottingham Trent University. Come along and explore some new relationships with the ‘natural’ environment which have gradually developed in the East Midlands as industrial production has declined. Find out how sociology can help us understand some of these changes to our daily lives; how ‘nature’ is perhaps not really natural at all; and how ideas about ‘what nature is’ can affect our personal and social lives. Booking advisable through bls.marketing@ntu.ac.ukor call 0115 848 8882. Meet 2pm at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Saturday 20th March - Attenborough Nature Walk

Enjoy a guided walk around the wildlife sanctuary of Attenborough Nature Reserve with Beeston Wildlife Group. Meet in the Nature Centre car park (Barton Lane). Contact: Bill Wheatley 0115 925 0208 or Nigel Slater 0115 916 6518. 10am -1pm.

Saturday 20th March - The Countryside in Spring

Enjoy a refreshing 10-mile circular walk with the South Notts Local Group, exploring the countryside around Wysall, Willoughby and Wymeswold. Contact: Gordon Dyne 0115 984 3934. Meet at 10am opposite the church in Wysall - bring a packed lunch.

Saturday 20th March - Optics Demonstration Day with Opticron

Your chance to try out for free a range of binoculars and more under real field conditions. Expert advice will be on hand. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 10am - 4pm at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Sunday 21st March - Weather Day

Explore the world of weather and take part in activities for all the family including a free illustrated talk by local weather expert, Alan Heath. Free entry, however a small charge may be made for some activities. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 11am - 3pm at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Sunday 21st March - Wildlife Habitat Building Day

Help the Attenborough Wildlife Watch Group to create habitats in their new Watch Wild Garden area for all the creatures from hedgehogs to frogs, bugs to birds. Members and non-members welcome. Under-8s to be accompanied by an adult. Please come dressed for the weather! Meet at the Nature Centre, Barton Lane.
Contact: Victoria McMillan 0115 913 0072. 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Sunday 21st March - Boundary Walk

Get to grips with Bestwood’s unusual boundary shape as we circumnavigate the outer reaches of this historic park including The Mill Lakes. Learn something of the history of this boundary and Bestwood’s original 3,485 acres. We may also come across some signs of spring along our journey! Distance approximately 5 miles. Meet: Winding Engine House car park. 10am to approx 1pm. For further information please call 0115 927 3674.

Sunday 21st March - Sweat Lodge

The sweat lodge is created from a covered dome of willow rods. Hot volcanic stones are placed in a central pit and dowsed with water and herbs creating a therapeutic steam that cleanses body and mind. For more information and to book a place please contact Jason Sewell on 0115 956 9603 or email jason@turtlelodgehealing.co.uk. More information can be found at www.turtlelodgehealing.co.uk. A charge applies to this event. 10.30am - approx 4pm.

Wednesday 24th March - Health Walk

These monthly walks provide an ideal opportunity to make friends and observe wildlife whilst benefiting from one of the best forms of exercise available. Walks are led at a gentle pace with stops en route and usually involve some slopes. Meet: Winding Engine House car park. Contact Bestwood Country Park on 0115 9273674. 10am to approx 12pm.

Wednesday 24th March - Walkabout Clumber

In partnership with Bassetlaw District Council and Bassetlaw Primary Care Trust, Clumber offers 1, 2, 3, 5 and 8 mile walks as part of the healthy walks initiative. Normal admission charges apply for your first Walkabout, a free vehicle entry pass will then be provided to allow access for participation on further walks. Walks vary in time length from 1 hour up to 2 hours. Dogs on leads welcome. Walks start at the Conservation Centre. Wheelchair routes are available. Turn up in suitable clothing and with a drink for this walk. Normal admission charges apply, booking not necessary. Contact: Clumber Park on 01909 476592. 10.30am - 12.30am.

Tuesday 30th March - Attenborough Easter Holiday Club

Join us for some Easter holiday fun at Attenborough. Suitable for children aged 4 and above. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. £5 per child. Discounts for more than 1 child per group. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 10am - 12 noon at Attenborough Nature Centre. Booking essential.

Tuesday 30th March - Idle Valley: Mammal Madness

Join us for a day of wildlife madness as we follow a mammal trail around the Reserve. Open to 5 -11 year olds. £2 per child. Meet at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre. Booking essential. Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 10am - 11.30am.

Tuesday 30th March - Idle Valley: Seed Spectacular

A chance for our youngest nature lovers to get their hands dirty and plant their own seeds. Parent and toddler session open to 2 - 4 year olds. £2 per child. Meet at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre. Booking essential. Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 1.30 - 2.30pm.

Wednesday 31st March - Springing Up at Duke’s Wood

Take the family for a walk on the wild side. Explore the woodland in spring on this guided walk, and make a paper wildflower bouquet to take home. Meet at the cabin in Duke’s Wood. £1.50 per child; children under 3 years old are free. Booking essential. Contact: Ann Marie Edwards 01777 713 940.1pm-3pm.

Wednesday 31st March - Pushabout Clumber

Part of an initiative promoting walking for health and supported by Bassetlaw Primary Care Trust and Bassetlaw District Council. About 2 miles in length over terrain suitable for buggies. Walk lasts approximately 1 hour. Normal admission charges apply for your first Pushabout, a free vehicle entry pass will then be provided to allow access for participation on further walks. Normal Admission Charges Apply. Booking Not Needed. Turn up in suitable clothing and with a drink for this walk. Start from the Clock Tower at the Main Visitor Facilities. Contact: Clumber Park on 01909 476592.

Wednesday 31st March - Moor Pond Wood Management Update

Join the Friends of Moor Pond Wood as they present a talk detailing the project management of Moor Pond Wood. Papplewick & Linby Village Hall, Linby Lane, Papplewick. For further details contact Friends of Moor Pond Wood on 0115 9632057. From 7.30pm.

Thursday 1st April - Attenborough Easter Holiday Club

Thursday 1st April - Idle Valley: Pond Dipping for Kids

Come and discover the amazing wildlife hidden beneath the water in our ponds. Open to 5 - 11 year olds. £2 per child. Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 10am - 11.30am at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre. Booking essential.

Thursday 1st April - Idle Valley: Pond Dipping for Toddlers

Come and discover the amazing wildlife hidden beneath the water in our ponds. Parent and toddler session for 2 - 4 year olds. £2 per child. Booking essential.
Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 1.30pm - 2.30pm at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Thursday 1st April - African Conservation Challenges: The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre

Lee Schofield, Southern Reserves Officer of Notts Wildlife Trust, will give an illustrated talk on the work he has done in Malawi for the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre. This talk is preceded by the Newark Local Group’s AGM. Admission £2 including refreshments. Contact: Nadia Ming 01636 679 788. 7.30pm at Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Newark.

Thursday 1st April - The Wonderful World of Beekeeping

Join the Retford Local Group of Notts Wildlife Trust to learn about the ancient technique of beekeeping. Experienced local beekeeper Jack Foulds will be bringing along a real hive to explain his craft. This event is preceded by the Retford Group’s AGM. Admission £1.50. Contact: Anne Coppen 01777 705 031. 7.30pm at Goodwin Hall, Chancery Lane, Retford.

Thursday 1st April - Giving Birds a Helping Hand: Red Kites, Sea Eagles and Black Robins

The South Notts Local Group of Notts Wildlife Trust invites you to a presentation by well known ornithologist David Parkin. David will talk about these beautiful and rare bird species and the efforts currently under way to save them from extinction. Contact: Dennis Heffernan 0115 923 1838. 7.30pm in Room 9, Musters Road Methodist Church, West Bridgford.

Saturday 3rd April - Health Walk

Walking is a great way to keep fit. Join us at Attenborough for a 45 minute breeze around the Reserve. Suitable for beginners, but no dogs please. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. Meet 10am at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Tuesday 6th April - Attenborough Easter Club

Tuesday 6th April - Idle Valley: Slugs and Snails

Come and find out all about these weird, wonderful and slimy creatures. Open to 5 - 11 year olds. £2 per child Booking essential. Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 10am - 11.30am at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Tuesday 6th April - Idle Valley: Parent and Toddlers, Nature’s Rainbow

Join us on a trail around the Idle Valley Reserve, collecting colourful objects from the natural world around us. This event is for 2 - 4 year olds. £2 per child. Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 1.30pm - 2.30pm at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Wednesday 7th April - Idle Valley: Wildlife Arts and Crafts

Come along and get creative, using the natural world for inspiration. This event is for 5 - 11 year olds. £2 per child. Booking essential. Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 10am - 11.30am at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Wednesday 7th April - Idle Valley: Amazing Senses

Do other creatures see, hear and smell like we do? Come and find out how different animals use their eyes, ears and noses. Open to 2 - 4 year olds. £2 per child. Booking essential. Contact: Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 1.30pm - 2.30pm at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Thursday 8th April - Attenborough Easter Holiday Club

Join us for some Easter holiday fun at Attenborough. Suitable for children aged 4 and above. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. £5 per child. Discounts for more than 1 child per group. Booking essential. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777.10am - 12 noon at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Thursday 8th April - Idle Valley Easter Activities Moring

Join the team at the Idle Valley for a fun-packed Easter activity morning. Contact: Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940.10.30am – 12 noon at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Friday 9th April - Attenborough Easter Holiday Club: Woodland Workshop

Fun bushcraft activities in the woods at Attenborough. Suitable for children aged 8 and above. £5 per child. Discounts for more than 1 child per group. Booking essential. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 10am – 12 noon at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Saturday 10th April - Introduction to Bird Identification

Join us for the third of a series of six field walks around the Attenborough Nature Reserve with a number of local bird enthusiasts, looking at our resident birds and our Spring visitors. £25 per person (inclusive of all six walks). Meet at Attenborough Nature Centre. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 10am to 1pm.

Saturday 10th April - Idle Valley: Get Out and About

Come along and try out some new exercise taster sessions, take part in our sponsored walk for wildlife, and get advice and information about exercise and healthy eating. Free admission. Contact: Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 10am - 4pm at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Saturday 10th April - Wildlife Walk

Join the Mansfield & Ashfield Local Group of Notts Wildlife Trust for a walk, followed by the AGM. Booking required. Contact: Membership Team 0115 958 8242. Times of walk to be confirmed.

Sunday 11th April - Spring Migration Walk

Join us for a walk around the Idle Valley Reserve as we look out for some of the migratory birds on site. £2 per person. Contact: Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre 01777 713 940. 10am - 12 noon at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre.

Sunday 11th April - Attenborough Nature Walk

Come along for a guided walk around the wildlife sanctuary of Attenborough Nature Reserve. No booking needed, but no dogs please. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. Meet 10.30am at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Monday 12th April - Attenborough Easter Holiday Club: Woodland Workshop

Tuesday 13th April - Attenborough Easter Holiday Club: Woodland Workshop

Wednesday 14th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Member Only: Lambing Trip

Come up to Creswell to meet Agnes, the Wildlife Trust’s shepherd, and help out by bottle-feeding some of the lambs. Sorry, no children. You can stay for an hour, or longer if you fancy it. Booking essential. Contact: Membership Team 0115 958 8242. 10am.

Sunday 18th April - Walking with Wildflowers

Join the South Notts. Local group of Notts Wildlife Trust at Bingham Linear Park for a relaxing morning stroll among the beautiful spring blooms. Contact: Jenny Hawkings 01949 838 899. Meet 10am at TythbyBridge, Bingham.

Sunday 18th April - Wildlife Art

Meet wildlife artist Paul Dyson and browse a variety of signed wildlife and wilderness prints, cards and gifts. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 10am - 4pm.

Monday 19th April - A Life with Birds and Birders

Paul Stancliffe will give a fascinating talk about how birds and people have inspired him, from his early days of bird ringing at Attenborough, to living on the Isles of Scilly, and his recent work for the British Trust for Ornithology. Admission £2 including refreshments. Contact: Bill Wheatley 0115 925 0208. 7.30pm at Trent Vale Infants School, Beeston Rylands.

Tuesday 20th April - Climate Change and Wildlife

Have you ever thought about the impact of global warming on our wildlife? The Worksop Local Group presents a talk by Michael Coplestone, RSPB warden at Langford Lowfields and Beckingham Marshes reserves. Contact: Willie Milne 01909 472 458 or Alvin Green 01909 476 276. 7.30pm at Stanley Street Sports and Social Club, Worksop.

Thurday 22nd April - Living Landscapes

Join John Everitt, the Chief Executive of the Wildlife Trust, as he illustrates the Wildlife Trust’s vision to create larger areas for wildlife in the county. John will discuss the importance of creating corridors and green spaces between reserve areas, together with their benefit for visitors and residents. Preceded by the AGM for the South Notts Local Group. Contact: Dennis Heffernan 0115 923 1838. 7.30pm in Room 9, Musters Road Methodist Church, West Bridgford.

Saturday 24th April - Hatfield Moor

Enjoy a walk and see the amazing birdlife at this reserve with Derrick Scott, Chair of the Retford Local Group. Directions: Take the A638 North from Retford to Bawtry. In Bawtry turn right onto the A614 north, up through Blaxton, and Hatfield Moor is on the right. Park in Boston Park car park. Contact Ann Coppen 01777 705 031. Meet 10.30am.

Saturday 24th April - Attenborough Nature Walk

Thursday 29th April - The Land of the Long White Cloud

Discover more about (wild) life on the other side of the world! Come and listen to an illustrated talk about New Zealand by Dennis Hefferman. St Helen’s Old Church Hall, Main Street, Burton Joyce. Admission £1. Contact: Mark or Sue Foss 0115 961 4194 or Barry Ellis 0115 955 4660. The talk takes place at 8pm and is preceded by the Gedling Local Group’s AGM at 7.30pm

Practical Volunteering

Thursday 11th March - Dob Park Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Dob Park held on Thursday each week and one Sunday a month. Contact Phil Kimbrey on 07753 850756 or at phil.kimbrey@nottscc.gov.uk.

Thursday 11th March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 11th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Join these regular work parties (every Tuesday and Thursday) organised on Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust reserves in the south of the county. Unless otherwise stated contact Jenny Huskinson on 0115 958 8242.

Friday 12th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Join these regular work parties (every Monday, Tuesday, Friday and every other Sunday) held at Attenborough Nature Reserve. This group is very popular so to avoid disappointment contact Karen Bennett for more information at the Attenborough Nature Centre on 0115 972 1777.

Saturday 13th March - Newark Area Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A regular work party on the second Saturday in the month. Come and lend a hand with management on nature reserves across the Newark Area. No experience required 10am - 4pm. For more information contact John Black on 0115 958 8242.

Saturday 13th March - Wilford Claypits Working Group

Wilford Claypits, managed by the Notts Wildlife Trust is one of Rushcliffe’s SSSI`s. This urban reserve contains a mixture of ponds and dry grassland. The working group runs on the second Saturday of each month, from 1pm to 4pm. The winter work programme covers maintaining meadows, pond clearance and dead hedging. Contact Deryk Rudge (0115 9100712) for more information.

Sunday 14th March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Join the Nottinghamshire group of the BTCV on one of their regular work parties (every Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday and the second Saturday of the month). The work parties are run out of the BTCVs county office at Burton Joyce and there is a pick up location in Nottingham. For more information contact 0115 931 3316.

Sunday 14th March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Sunday 14th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Join these regular work parties (every Wednesday and the first and second Sunday in the month) organised on Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust reserves in the north of the county. For more information contact Rob Atkinson on 01777 713940.

Monday 15th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 15th March - Bestwood Volunteers

We need your enthusiasm to help us protect this fascinating remnant of Sherwood Forest. Volunteering is a great chance to learn new skills, help the environment and make friends. Everyone is welcome (no previous experience necessary) with tools, training and tea all provided! Please bring a packed lunch and all-weather clothing. For further information please call 0115 927 3674. Every Monday except Bank Holidays and every first Sunday of the month. Meet: Alexandra Lodge.

Tuesday 16th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Tuesday 16th March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Tuesday 16th March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 16th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Wednesday 17th March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Wednesday 17th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Wednesday 17th March - Treswell Wood Volunteers (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A weekly work party at Treswell Wood near Retford. For more information contact Tony Kennedy on 01427 880436.

Thursday 18th March - Dob Park Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Dob Park held on Thursday each week and one Sunday a month. Contact Phil Kimbrey on 07753 850756 or at phil.kimbrey@nottscc.gov.uk.

Thursday 18th March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 18th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Friday 19th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Saturday 20th March - Gedling Area Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A regular work party on the third Saturday in the month. Spend some time helping local volunteers to look after some wonderful local wildlife sites. 10am -1.30pm. For more information contact Barry Ellis on 0115 955 4660.

Sunday 21st March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Sunday 21st March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Sunday 21st March - Bingham Linear Park Working Group

This work party has been set up to help manage a stretch of abandoned railway line particularly noted for its butterflies and moths, but also with a diverse range of wildflowers. The group runs on the third Sunday of each month, 10am, and meets at Tithby Rd. Please contact Bill Bacon (01949 838585) for more information.

Sunday 21st March - Bunny Wood Working Group

Bunny Wood, managed by the Notts Wildlife Trust, is a piece of ancient woodland badly ravaged by Dutch Elm disease but being restored through patient management. The working group is held on the third Sunday of each month, from 10 am. Winter tasks include updating nature trail, new storage area and boundary work. Contact Chris Terrell-Nield (0115 9374906) for more information.

Sunday 21st March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Sunday 21st March - Sherwood Forest Conservation Volunteers

First and third Sunday each month in winter. Help the rangers look after Nottinghamshire’s only National Nature Reserve and at the same time have fun, learn new skills, meet new people and get fitter! We’ll provide the tools, training and the all important tea and biscuits. (Not suitable for under 14s.14-18 year olds must be accompanied by an adult). For further details or bookings call Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve on 01623 821322. Meet at the visitor centre at 10am.

Monday 22nd March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 22nd March - Bestwood Volunteers

Tuesday 23rd March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Tuesday 23rd March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Tuesday 23rd March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 23rd March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Wednesday 24th March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Wednesday 24th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Wednesday 24th March - Treswell Wood Volunteers (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A weekly work party at Treswell Wood near Retford. For more information contact Tony Kennedy on 01427 880436.

Thursday 25th March - Dob Park Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Dob Park held on Thursday each week and one Sunday a month. Contact Phil Kimbrey on 07753 850756 or at phil.kimbrey@nottscc.gov.uk.

Thursday 25th March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 25th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Friday 26th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Sunday 28th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Sunday 28th March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Monday 29th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 29th March - Bestwood Volunteers

Tuesday 30th March - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Tuesday 30th March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Tuesday 30th March - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 30th March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Wednesday 31st March - Bestwood Adventure Playground (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Wednesday 31st March - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Wednesday 31st March - Treswell Wood Volunteers (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A weekly work party at Treswell Wood near Retford. For more information contact Tony Kennedy on 01427 880436.

Thursday 1st April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 1st April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Friday 2nd April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Saturday 3rd April - Wilwell Farm Cutting Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Wilwell Farm Cutting, managed by the Notts Wildlife Trust is one of Rushcliffe’s SSSI’s. This abandoned railway cutting provides marsh, scrub woodland, ruderal and open grassland habitats. The working group runs on the first Saturday of each month, 1 pm till 4 pm. Work includes grassland maintenance and coppicing. For more information contact Gordon Dyne on 0115 984 3934.

Sunday 4th April - Bestwood Volunteers

Sunday 4th April - Mansfield Area Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A regular work party on the first Sunday in the month 10am - 4pm. Come along and help us manage nature reserves in the Mansfield area – all tool and equipment supplied. No experience necessary. For more information contact Dave Sutton on 0115 958 8242.

Sunday 4th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Sunday 4th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Sunday 4th April - Sherwood Forest Conservation Volunteers

Monday 5th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 5th April - Bestwood Volunteers

Tuesday 6th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Tuesday 6th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 6th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Wednesday 7th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Wednesday 7th April - Treswell Wood Volunteers (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A weekly work party at Treswell Wood near Retford. For more information contact Tony Kennedy on 01427 880436.

Thursday 8th April - Dob Park Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Dob Park held on Thursday each week and one Sunday a month. Contact Phil Kimbrey on 07753 850756 or at phil.kimbrey@nottscc.gov.uk.

Thursday 8th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 8th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Friday 9th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Saturday 10th April - Newark Area Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Saturday 10th April - Wilford Claypits Working Group

Sunday 11th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Sunday 11th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Sunday 11th April - Oakham LNR (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Monday 12th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 12th April - Bestwood Volunteers

Tuesday 13th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Tuesday 13th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 13th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Wednesday 14th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Wednesday 14th April - Treswell Wood Volunteers (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A weekly work party at Treswell Wood near Retford. For more information contact Tony Kennedy on 01427 880436.

Thursday 15th April - Dob Park Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Dob Park held on Thursday each week and one Sunday a month. Contact Phil Kimbrey on 07753 850756 or at phil.kimbrey@nottscc.gov.uk.

Thursday 15th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 15th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Friday 16th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Saturday 17th April - Gedling Area Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Sunday 18th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Sunday 18th April - Bingham Linear Park Working Group

Sunday 18th April - Bunny Wood Working Group

Sunday 18th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Sunday 18th April - Oakham LNR (BTCV Volunteer Task Day)

Sunday 18th April - Sherwood Forest Conservation Volunteers

Monday 19th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 19th April - Bestwood Volunteers

Tuesday 20th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Tuesday 20th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 20th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Wednesday 21st April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Wednesday 21st April - Treswell Wood Volunteers (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A weekly work party at Treswell Wood near Retford. For more information contact Tony Kennedy on 01427 880436.

Thursday 22nd April - Dob Park Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Dob Park held on Thursday each week and one Sunday a month. Contact Phil Kimbrey on 07753 850756 or at phil.kimbrey@nottscc.gov.uk.

Thursday 22nd April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 22nd April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Friday 23rd April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Sunday 25th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 26th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Monday 26th April - Bestwood Volunteers

Tuesday 27th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Tuesday 27th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 27th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Wednesday 28th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Northern Reserves)

Wednesday 28th April - Treswell Wood Volunteers (Notts Wildlife Trust)

A weekly work party at Treswell Wood near Retford. For more information contact Tony Kennedy on 01427 880436.

Thursday 29th April - Dob Park Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Dob Park held on Thursday each week and one Sunday a month. Contact Phil Kimbrey on 07753 850756 or at phil.kimbrey@nottscc.gov.uk.

Thursday 29th April - Moor Pond Wood Volunteers

Practical conservation tasks in and around Moor Pond Wood, held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday each week. Contact Lee Scudder on 07753 850758 or by email at leescudder@hotmail.com.

Thursday 29th April - Notts Wildlife Trust Volunteers (Southern Reserves)

Friday 30th April - Attenborough Work Party (Notts Wildlife Trust)

Wildlife Watch Groups

Young nature lovers between 8 and 13 can find out more about wildlife by getting involved in a range of fun activities organised by Wildlife Watch. There are Wildlife Watch Groups across the county providing young people with opportunities to explore their surroundings and find out more about the natural world.

Portland Park Watch Group

(CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)

Portland Park Visitor Centre, Kirkby-in-Ashfield. 10am - 12noon. Contact: Lynn Victor, 0115 958 8242.

Saturday 13th March - Farndon Watch Group

Group based at Farndon Village Hall and Willow Holt. Contact: Sue Leach on 01636 681154. 9.30am - 11.30am.

Saturday 13th March - Rushcliffe Watch Group

At Rushcliffe Country Park, Ranger’s office, Ruddington.

Contact: Park Rangers 0115 921 5865. 11am - 1pm.

Sunday 14th March - Duke’s Wood Watch Group

At Duke’s Wood Nature Reserve, Eakring, or Jordan Castle Farm, Wellow. Contact: Ann Marie Edwards or Carl Cornish on 01777 713940 or Sandra McLean 07913 203462. 10am - 12pm.

Sunday 14th March – Idle Valley Watch Group

Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre, Great North Road, Retford. Contact: Ann Marie Edwards 01777 713 940 or Sara Smith 01777 713 945. 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Sunday 21st March - Attenborough Watch Group

At the Attenborough Nature Centre. 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Contact: Victoria McMillan 0115 913 0072 or the Nature Centre on 0115 972 1777

Saturday 10th April - Brackenhurst Watch Group

Schools Unit, Brackenhurst Campus, off A612 nr Southwell. Contact: Lynn Victor, 0115 958 8242. (Please phone before attending). 9.30am - 11.30am.

Saturday 10th April - Nottingham City Watch Group

Courtyard Studio, Wollaton Hall and Park. Contact: Lynn Victor, 0115 841 8154. 10.15am - 12.15pm.

Sunday 11th April - Sherwood Forest Area Watch Group

This Watch Group is a roving ‘Wildlife Watch’ group for children - please contact the Ranger’s Office for more details of venues. 10am - 12pm. Contact: Ranger’s Office 01623 822 447 (booking is essential so please phone before attending).

Saturday 17th April - Farndon Watch Group

Group based at Farndon Village Hall and Willow Holt. Contact: Sue Leach on 01636 681154. 9.30am - 11.30am.

Saturday 17th April - Rushcliffe Watch Group

At Rushcliffe Country Park, Ranger’s office, Ruddington.

Contact: Park Rangers 0115 921 5865. 11am - 1pm.

Sunday 18th April - Duke’s Wood Watch Group

At Duke’s Wood Nature Reserve, Eakring, or Jordan Castle Farm, Wellow. Contact: Ann Marie Edwards or Carl Cornish on 01777 713940 or Sandra McLean 07913 203462. 10am - 12pm.

Sunday 25th April - Attenborough Watch Group

At the Attenborough Nature Centre. 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Contact: Victoria McMillan 0115 913 0072 or the Nature Centre on 0115 972 1777

Training

Sunday 14th March - Digital Photography Workshop

A series of workshops, using the landscape, gardens, wildlife and buildings of Clumber Park. These days are designed to build photographic skills and knowledge of digital photography, providing a great opportunity to make the most of your digital camera. For further information please visit www.goingdigital.co.uk. Normal Admission Charges Apply. Booking Essential, for bookings please contact Jan Slack on 07970 427381or visit www.goingdigital.co.uk. £70 max cost. Meet at the Conservation Centre. 10am - 4pm.

Saturday 20th March - Introduction to Bird Identification

Join Notts Wildlife Trust for the first of a series of six field walks around the Attenborough Nature Reserve with a number of local bird enthusiasts, looking at our resident birds and our Spring visitors. £25 per person (inclusive of all six walks). Meet at Attenborough Nature Centre.Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 10am to 1pm.

Saturday 20th March - An Introduction to the World of Wildlife Photography

This exciting activity gives you a chance to try your hand at photographing some of the abundant wildlife at Attenborough Nature Reserve. The session will include a briefing from an expert instructor, a supervised session in one of our hides, and a chance to use some professional camera equipment as well as hearing some tips on getting the most from your camera. Afterwards you will be able to take your images home on a CD. Suitable for beginners. £32 per person. Booking essential. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 8am - 10.30am at Attenborough Nature Centre.

Friday 26th March - Digital Photography Workshop

Saturday 27th March - Introduction to Bird Identification

Join Notts Wildlife Trust for the second of a series of six field walks around the Attenborough Nature Reserve with a number of local bird enthusiasts, looking at our resident birds and our Spring visitors. £25 per person (inclusive of all six walks). Meet at Attenborough Nature Centre. Contact: Attenborough Nature Centre 0115 972 1777. 10am to 1pm

Saturday 17th April - An Introduction to the World of Wildlife Photography

Saturday 17th April - Introduction to Bird Identification

Saturday 17th April - Rustic Ladder-back Chair Workshop

A two-day course with local craftsman Ray Lister. Using hazel and ash from the coppice management within Treswell Wood, you will learn step by step how to make this charming piece of furniture, and by the end of the course you will have completed your first chair of what will hopefully be many more to come. £80 per person. Meet at the craftsmen sheds in Treswell Wood. Please bring packed lunch; tea and coffee provided. Booking essential. (CONCLUDES 18TH APRIL). Contact: Samantha 07791 544 061.10am - 3pm.

Saturday 24th April - Introduction to Bird Identification

Saturday 24th April - Charcoal-making Workshop

Light it, burn it, bag it! Learn the entire process of how to make both barbeque and artist’s charcoal. Join local craftsman Ray Lister, using seasoned wood from the coppice management in Treswell Wood, and take home your own bagful at the end of the day! £30 per person, BBQ lunch, tea and coffee provided. £40 per person. Meet at the craftsmen sheds in Treswell Wood. Booking essential. Contact: Samantha 07791 544 061. 9am - 3pm