Nature Networks: Climate Change.

A better understanding of the local impacts of climate change

Nature Networks: Climate Change is a place-based climate engagement programme rooted in the landscapes around Selkirk, including Deer Park, Selkirk Hill and a wider network of ponds, wetlands and connecting habitats. The project will use these connected sites as a living platform to help people understand how climate change is already affecting the Borders, and how restoring degraded habitats can strengthen resilience for both nature and community. The core idea is simple. Climate change can feel distant and abstract but water levels in a pond, a dry hillside vulnerable to fire, or heavier rainfall running off compacted ground are tangible and local. By working directly with these landscapes, we will help people see how adaptation works in practice, and how biodiversity recovery is part of climate resilience. The project is being delivered by the following groups: Bright Green Nature, The Selkirk Hill Group and SBCAN.

If you are able to fill in the below survey using the link we would be grateful- we are trying to understand the impacts of climate changes locally, what skills and knowledge we have in the area already and people's existing relationships with areas of nature in Selkirk and the Valleys- to ensure we can build from this with the project:

Link to survey: https://forms.gle/dKqXKYSxcp6dEx2A6

Youth Sessions

Climate change can feel pretty abstract, but it’s changing the landscape right here in the Scottish Borders. We’re looking for a team of 11–15-year-olds to join us in Selkirk to get out in the wild, see what’s actually happening, and learn how we can help nature adapt.

What we’ll be doing:

Climate & Water Walks: We’ll be out exploring how things like floods, droughts, and even the grass under our feet affect the land.

Citizen Science: You’ll be the researchers. We’ll be surveying pond life, setting camera traps for otters and badgers, and tracking the impact of top predators on our ecosystem.

Practical Conservation: This is the hands-on bit; We’ll be building leaky dams, restoring spaces for wildlife, and taking direct action to help local wildlife thrive.

Games: It’s not all work! We’ll have some fun outdoor games to help bring us all together as a team.

The Commitment: We’re looking for a team that wants to stick together. You’ll need to attend all three sessions to complete the journey and officially become a Nature Force Ambassador!

Dates: Wednesday 29th July, 5th August and 12th of August, 10 a.m.-3pm, please note that the young people should attend all three sessions.

Please note these sessions will take place outdoors -participants should bring a waterproof jacket, spare set of clothes, warm jumper or fleece and wellies/walking boots. If you don't have access to suitable clothing or footwear please get in touch and we can help.

The activity runs from 10-3pm - participants should bring a packed lunch, snacks and a water bottle.Toilets and indoor warming up facilities will be provided at the Argus Centre.