Hello, I’m Amy Telford and I’m also one of The Conservation Volunteers six new ‘Natural Communities’ trainees. I’m embarking on a year-long placement as a Community Ranger for The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), based at their Loch of Strathbeg reserve, on the North East coast of Scotland.
Me on the cliffs at RSPB Fowlsheugh
A little bit about me… I studied at The University of Aberdeen for a BSc in Tropical Environmental Science followed by an MRes in Ecology and Environmental Sustainability. After graduating, I spent a few years working outside the nature conservation sector, doing some volunteering for the RSPB and TCV on the side. Last summer, I worked for the RSPB, in Aberdeen, as a People Engagement Assistant. At this point, I decided that I wanted to get back into the sector, so I applied for this traineeship as I thought it would be an ideal stepping-stone to help me gain full-time employment in nature conservation.
And here I am…Loch of Strathbeg is Britain’s largest dune loch and is managed for the benefit of it’s biodiversity, while offering an inspiring wildlife spectacle and key local educational resource. Loch of Strathbeg is one of four RSPB coastal reserves in the North East of Scotland, alongside; Fowlsheugh, Troupe Head and Meikle Loch. Most of which I will get the chance to work at throughout the duration of my time here.
Lagoon and dunes at Loch of Strathbeg
At Loch of Strathbeg, we are looking to develop our ties with the local communities in the area. I will be looking to do this through local promotion, attending events, developing our volunteer scheme, doing talks, guided walks, outdoor learning activities and conduction research on the development of our new visitor’s centre, to make sure it can be of best use for the local community and other visitors.
I’m sure it will be an exciting year with lots of things to lean along the way. I will be sure to keep in touch throughout the year to let you know how everything is going…
Pink-footed geese flying at dawn over Loch of Strathbeg