GWCT research is becoming a beacon of light in an increasingly challenging environment for game and wildlife. As wildlife populations continue to decline, is there too much talk and not enough action? The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust will be posing this question at its 2014 Members’ Conference on the 29th October 2014.
Being held at the Royal Geographical Society in London, this is an ideal opportunity to join in the debate on game and wildlife conservation and to have your voice heard. Importantly, delegates will learn how GWCT research is being transported from the fields of the countryside to influencing politicians from Westminster to Edinburgh.
Andrew Gilruth, Director of Membership, Marketing and Communications, said, “These are challenging times, lots of people are asking questions about game management and how it benefits the wider countryside. Although policy makers increasingly recognise that at its best game management practices can deliver exceptional results in terms of wildlife recovery, there are a lot of siren voices out there and so this is no time for complacency. Good research is vital to make the case. I would urge members (as well as non-members) to come to our conference and debate the current issues. We want to know what they are thinking and want to encourage them to engage with our research. There will be lots of time allocated to discussing some of the gritty issues that we face.”
Whether your interests lie in the way forward for farming, hen harriers in the uplands, woodcock research, and predation control or how politicians are now embracing game management, there is bound to be something of interest.
The GWCT is pleased to announce that Mike Clarke, RSPB’s Chief Executive will be speaking on the value of shooting to conservation, and Sir John Randall MP, who has a keen interest in environmental affairs, will be talking on the importance of GWCT published research being made available to all.
In addition, a private tour is available of the Royal Geographical Society Collections – “Icons of Exploration: material relating to Livingstone, Stanley, Shackleton and Scott”. This will take place at 9am, prior to the conference start at 10am.
Numbers are limited, so please book your place as soon as possible. The conference at the RGS, London SW7 2AR will run from 10am – 4pm. A sandwich lunch and refreshments are included in the price of £40 for members and their guests. Non-members are also welcome to attend at £60 a place. If you wish to participate in the Collections Tour then this will cost an additional £10 per person. Please visit www.gwct.org.uk/membersconference to book your place or telephone: 01425 651010 for more information.
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Photocaption: The GWCT member's conference is an ideal opportunity to join in the debate on game and wildlife conservation, and learn how GWCT research is influencing politicians from Westminster to Edinburgh. Photocredit: Peter Thompson, GWCT.
Notes to editors
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust – providing research-led conservation for a thriving countryside. The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for a number of Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.
For information, contact:
Eleanor Williams
Telephone: 07592 025476
Email: press@gwct.org.uk