Some of the region’s premier conservation projects were discussed in Perth on Thursday as Perthshire Nature Connections Partnership (PNCP) hosted a conference to highlight the work being done to restore Scotland’s nature.

 

The sold-out event organised by Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT), gave attendees the chance to hear about the innovative and ambitious projects underway across Perthshire to combat climate change, finance landscape change, and protect wildlife. 

 

Presentations underway at the PNCP Gathering (c) PKCT

Speaking of the event David Tollick (Conservation Officer – PKCT) said:

 

“It’s great to see so many individuals and organisations from across the country attend the Perthshire Nature Connections Partnership Gathering and share their enthusiasm for protecting and restoring our environment.

 

As a country we face significant landscape challenges, both now and in the future. From increasing flood risk to wildlife management and our rural economy, our changing climate is shaping our lives in increasingly obvious ways.

 

It’s heartening so many organisations come together to share ideas and best practice. It is through working in partnership that we will best be able to tackle these problems at scale and create a cleaner, greener environment for generations to come.”

 

PNCP Gathering welcome desk (c) PKCT

Over 80 delegates attended the PNCP Gathering at the Royal George Hotel in Perth on Thursday (9 May) to hear presentations and take part in Q&A and networking sessions. 

Speakers at ‘The Gathering’ included representatives from: PKCT, who examined the financing of nature projects in the Upper Tay region; ‘Scotland: The Big Picture’ who explained the Northwoods Rewilding Network; The National Trust for Scotland, who detailed their work on the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve; Perth and Kinross Council who highlighted nature networks; and The Durrell Trust, whose new Programme Director Deirdre Stewart clarified the Trust’s plans for the recently purchased Dalnacardoch Estate in Highland Perthshire.

Delegates at the PNCP Gathering deep in discussion (c) PKCT

Clare Hamilton (Chair of PNCP and Trustee of PKCT) added:

“As our politicians back away from action on nature and climate, the importance of local level action comes ever more into focus.

 

It was fantastic to hear from so many passionate and dedicated people and find out more about the great work that is going on across Perthshire, and I’m delighted that PNCP has been able to bring everyone together to discuss our shared vision and priorities for the future.”

Perthshire Nature Connections Partnership is a network of environmentally conscious organisations, landowners, and members of the public who are committed to improving and restoring the landscape of Perthshire. Anyone interested in participating the partnership or being kept informed can find out more HERE. 

The Royal George Hotel, Perth, where the PNCP Gathering took place (c) PKCT