|
|
THE RANGER
SERVICE
Tel: 01599
511231
|
| |
|
|
|
The Ranger Service
Environmental Education
The Ranger Service is an important primary resource that
offers cross-curricular learning opportunities for key areas
of the 5-14 Curriculum. The rangers provide an educational
service both at the properties of Kintail and Balmacara.
Suggestions for seasonally-related ranger led activities
are sent to primary schools each term, and we are happy
to receive requests from schools. We are also happy to work
with nursery schools. A new Wildlife Watch Club, aimed primarily
at 8-12 year olds was launched early in 2002.
Guided Walks
A full programme of Ranger led guided walks is held each
summer. For 2004, walks are planned around Kintail and Balmacara
including bat detecting, badger watching, mammals, crofting
and woodlands. High-level walks around Kintail will also
be arranged, as will walks to the Falls of Glomach. Charges
for walks are kept to a minimum and walks can be arranged
by request.
WOODLAND MYTHOLOGY
Tuesday 14th April
A walk around Coille Mhór to discover the trees and plants of this ancient semi-natural broadleaf woodland, and their place in folklore.
2-4pm, Meet at Balmacara Square Visitor Centre
HIGH LEVEL RIDGE WALKS
April - September
Have you ever wished you could reach the high tops of Kintail, but you didn’t have the confidence to do it on your own? Then let the NTS Ranger Service lead you. A chance to see wild red deer, golden eagles, mountain plants and magnificent scenery.
Full day walks.
Dates as requested - please contact Ranger Service.
Minimum 3 people per walk
COASTAL CROFTING
JULY: Tues 6th +Weds 21st
AUGUST: Thurs 5th +Fri 20th
Learn about the crofting way of life, past and present. Discover the flowers of the crofting meadows, search out an unusual orchid, or spot the elusive otter known to inhabit the coastline.
2-4pm. Meet at Balmacara Square Visitor Centre
CREATURES OF THE NIGHT!
Tues 17th August
Thurs 2nd September
Search the Lochalsh Woodland Gardens for signs of bats, moths and owls, with the aid of a 'bat detector'
Meet at Lochalsh Woodland Gardens Carpark. Times to be confirmed
PLEASE NOTE
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL FOR ALL WALKS AS SPACES ARE LIMITED
It may sometimes be necessary to reschedule events because of weather conditions.
Alternative dates and times may be possible for group bookings. Please contact the Ranger Service for details. |
PRACTICALITIES AND CHARGES
HIGH LEVEL RIDGE WALKS:
These walks are strenuous. You will need to be equipped with walking boots and waterproofs. Please bring enough food, water and energy for a full day of walking. All the Rangers are qualified Summer Mountain Leaders.
£20 per adult (free if you join the NTS on the day), £5 per child (under 16) Minimum charge per walk: £60
ALL OTHER WALKS:
Not strenuous walks, but walking boots and waterproof clothing recommended.
£3 per adult, £2 per child (under 16)
Practical Management
Practical conservation work is carried out on the estates
by the rangers. This includes wildlife surveying, footpath
repairs, tree-planting and deer management. National Trust
for Scotland Thistle Camps are held on Kintail, West Affric
and Balmacara each year, where volunteers help with practical
management. These are residential camps, staying at our
newly refurbished Kintail Outdoor Centre.
The Ranger Service is supported by Scottish Natural Heritage
CONTACT:
National Trust for Scotland Kintail,
Morvich Farm, Inverinate, By Kyle, Ross-shire, IV40 8HQ.
Tel. (01599) 511231 Fax. (01599) 511417 Email wfraser@nts.org
