Education
Education is an important aspect of the Trusts remit, we work with a variety of groups to raise awareness of fish conservation and promote best practice amongst fishers. The annual Ghillies Seminar is always well received, while the Trust also undertakes different projects and demonstrations with the local schools and the Highland Council Ranger Service.
Wellies & Wildlife
A set of resources produced by the Trust with funding from Heritage Lottery Fund and Scottish Natural Heritage (via Coigach & Assynt Living Landscape Partnership), John Muir Trust and Anne, Duchess of Westminster Charitable Trust to assist schools and groups to explore the natural environment. These resources are 'stand alone' and can be accessed and downloaded here. A booklet has also been printed and is available for puchase at the Trust or various outlets around Ullapool and the WSFT area.
Ghillies Seminar
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Held annually, the ghillies seminar addresses different aspects of fisheries and fisheries management each year. Topics have included the marine environment, stocking, parasites, fisheries issues and the political and practical aspects of fisheries management. Speakers are sourced from the public and scientific communities including Marine Scotland, SEPA and Universities. This event is primarily for Ghillies and fisheries managers, providing an opportunity to question scientific experts about issues relating to fisheries management and salmonid biology. It is intended as a two way process whereby information is passed to workers whilst bringing ideas and suggestions to scientists and policy makers.
Educational projects for schools
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Working with the schools and Highlife Highland Ranger Service we are involved in a variety of projects aimed at introducing as many pupils as possible to the aquatic environment and its need for protection. Much of this work is completed outdoors, giving the children the opportunity to connect with the environment and learn more about it. However we also use classroom based workshops as stand alone events or in connection with the field trips.
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Previously The Trust has assisted with field trips for Primary 4 to Primary 7 pupils to rivers, peat bogs and rockpools throughout the area as part of 'Crabby Claws', ‘Fishy Tales’, ‘Eely Days’, 'Pearl in Peril' and 'Wet and Wild' projects. These are intended to introduce the children to the range of species that can be found in these habitats through a range of practical activities. The Trust has also been involved with science courses at Kinlochbervie High School and transition projects between the primary schools and associated high school. Each event is well received and the children's enthusiasm endless. With small rural schools, these mixed school groups also allow the children to mix with their peers.
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Outreach events
The Trust organises and participates in a number of outreach events to raise awareness of its work in the local area and promote interest in the freshwater environment. Such events include:
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Highland Field Sports Fair
Annually on the first Friday and Saturday of August The Trust has a stall at the Highland Field Sports Fair, operated in collaboration with other Fisheries Trusts. There is a wealth of information available relating to the work of The Trust and other organisations, alongside a range of games and competitions.
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Electrofishing and kick sampling demonstrations
Throughout the season a number of demonstrations are held for the public or organised groups, sometimes in collaboration with the Highlife Highland Ranger Service. These provide an opportunity for people to get a closer look into the freshwater fish and invertebrate species of Sutherland and how juvenile fish surveys are undertaken.
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Scourie Detectives
No longer running, this event was organised by the Trust, the Community Council and Highland Geopark. A series of walks and talks centred on Scourie and the surrounding area concentrate on its spectacular wildlife and famous geology. There were also craft and information stalls, games and quizzes available.