Welcome to the Summer Countryside Events Programme for 2008
Our climate is changing and this is one of the most important environmental issues for our planet. You will be used to hearing about saving energy, recycling and fossil fuels but climate change also has huge implications for biodiversity and the countryside. That’s why this year, the events programme will be focused on climate change and in particular its relationship with biodiversity.
Life faces significant problems as it struggles to keep pace with changes to the climate and loss of habitat. Changes can already be seen with earlier springs and differences in where species are found. Worldwide we are losing up to 150 species everyday! However Biodiversity can also help in the fight against climate change; loss of forests is estimated to account for 20% of human induced CO2 emissions. Natural environments act as a safety net, locking away carbon and producing oxygen. Wildlife habitats can also help to counteract some of the effects of climate change such as protecting urban areas from flooding.
As well as being 4/5ths countryside, Darlington is really lucky to have several nature reserves, wild spaces, wildlife corridors and parks in the urban area. As part of the bigger picture, these green areas are important in the life of the planet; they help to support and protect biodiversity and the climate. And of course, they are also really nice places to get away from it all!! So this year why not join in the ‘Climate Challenge’, support your local countryside and ‘feel great in 2008!’.
September
Wednesday 10th September. 8.30-10.30pm.
Bat Watch.
Come and help the Ranger to survey the park and see if there are any bats, now that the wildlife is establishing on the site.
Please bring a torch.
Meet: Main entrance to West Park- West Auckland Road.
Sunday 21st September. 9:00am start.
Round Darlington Challenge!
Join us for a unique challenge; on a guided walk right around Darlington! The 15 miles route circles the outskirts of the town, using public rights of way and urban fringe paths (some road walking). This walk incorporates several of the Town’s Local Nature Reserves and other wildspaces.
Meet: South Park Lodge.
Bring a packed lunch and drinks.
October
Sunday 5th October. 10-11:30pm.
Hunt for Red October!
Come along on this scavenger hunt for autumn coloured leaves to make a seasonal mask or collage.
Meet: Main entrance to West Park- West Auckland Road.
Wednesday 29th October. 1.30-3pm.
Severe Weather Warning!
Rockwell Local Nature Reserve is an important flood plain, storing water that might otherwise flood into nearby homes. Follow the weather trail around the reserve to find out more about extreme weather.
Meet: Rockwell Local Nature Reserve- Riverside Way (footbridge opposite end of Hutton Avenue)
Friday 31st October. 6.30-8pm.
Spooks in the Countryside!
Are you brave enough to walk around West Park? See what lurks in the trees at Halloween.
Bring a torch or lantern.
Costume optional.
Meet: Main entrance to West Park- West Auckland Road.
For further information on any of these events please contact:
Sally Hunter Countryside Events Officer
Tel 01325 388648
email sally.hunter@darlington.gov.uk
For information on becoming a Countryside Volunteer contact:
Gloria Allan Allotments Officer
Tel 01325 388052
Email gloria.allan@darlington.gov.uk
Wildlife Groups
Darlington has a number of groups concerned with wildlife who meet on a regular basis. If you would like further information on these groups, please contact:
- Darlington Wildlife Group.
- Darlington & Teesdale Naturalists Field Club.
- RSPB - Darlington Local Group
Cliff Evans.
Tel 01325 466471
Visting the countryside
Most of Darlington and the surrounding areas are easily reached by public transport. Why not leave your car at home and walk or cycle or use public transport to get to events?
Do the Local Motion website
For information on cycle routes in Darlington contact Louise Neale on 01325 388628.