A Coast to Coast Backpack Challenge, Beekeeping in Kinross and the Capercaillie of Speyside

Scotland Outdoors

Nature-based solutions are a key tool in solving environmental problems such as flooding. Rachel met with Dr Rebecca Wade from Abertay University, who is a big advocate for these solutions, to find out more about how they are actually implemented, and why they are so important.

The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust’s demonstration farm in Auchnerran near Logie Coldstone, is home to numerous species of wading birds, but has had significant issues in the past with nest predation from badgers and other animals. They are trialling an innovative new solution - specially designed cages to protect the nests from would-be predators. Mark met with researcher Max Wright to find out how successful this trial has been so far.

The village of Kinnesswood near Kinross home to a very lively community of beekeepers. Stuart MacFarlane went along to find out more about how the community gained such an affinity for these pollinators.

Capercaillie are one of our nations most beloved and yet endangered species, and during the breeding season rangers carry out regular patrols to try and prevent passers-by from disturbing the birds. Rachel joined a team from the Cairngorms National Park Authority for an early morning patrol.

The Great Outdoors Coast to Coast Challenge has been running continuously for the last 45 years It is a non-competitive challenge encouraging walkers to plot and walk a route from West to East, connecting them with some of the amazing landscapes across the country. Mark met with several walkers as they near the end of their walk, to find out what attracted them to this challenge in the first place.

The warm and dry weather across the country over the last few weeks has been welcomed by many. However, the impact on our rivers and fish has been very significant. Phil Sime and Morven Livingstone met with Director of Ness District Salmon Fisheries Board, Brian Shaw, to hear just how this dry spell has impacted the river.

The Beach of Dreams Festival has been taking place across the UK for several weeks, emphasising the beauty, heritage, and possible futures of our coastlines. One of the most interesting projects has been taking place in Fife, and Rachel met with artist Julie Brook, who has spent several days on the coast there, building an ambitious tidal sculpture.