Work has been underway at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond this month to build a new pond-dipping facility for visitors, despite the heavy snow which fell across the region.

Snow drifts of several metres, and freezing temperatures made access difficult and buried equipment and materials, but workers from BLC Ltd continued with the construction work whenever it was safe to do so, quickly making the facility weatherproof.

The new pond-dipping area, which will be open to the public this spring, will help families to get closer to the reserve’s water-based wildlife, including insects, plants and frogs. The project was designed and managed by WWT Consulting, and includes an area of decking and a shelter, where there will be information on hand about the creatures which might be uncovered.

Paula Baker, site manager at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond, said: “Our new pond dipping area will be a fantastic addition to the site, and a great place for events. It’s easily accessible by path from our car park, making it a handy place for families to visit, and there will be plenty of exciting discoveries ready to be made by people of all ages.

“It’s been really impressive to watch the guys from BLC Ltd and WWT Consulting put it all together, in spite of the terrible conditions. As someone who works outdoors a lot, I really take my hat off to them.”

The new pond dipping facilities have been funded by the ScottishPower Foundation, which also supported the building of new paths at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond last year.

Ann McKechin, Trustee and Executive Officer at the ScottishPower Foundation, said “We’ve been supporting the work of RSPB Scotland since 2014 and this new multi-use visitor structure at RSPB Loch Lomond will transform access for visitors, including many children, and help them to get even closer to Scotland’s wildlife.

“The RSPB dedication to inspiring a new generation to protect our natural world echoes the Foundation’s commitment to the advancement of environmental protection. It is a shining example of how we can ensure young people can learn about protecting our planet for future generations.”

The pond dipping area at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond will officially open to the public on May 7, with a day of family events and activities. Go to www.rspb.org.uk/lochlomond  for more details, closer to the date. 

For further information and to arrange an interview, please contact:
Jenny Tweedie, RSPB Scotland Media and Communications Officer, on 0141 331 0993, or 07899 675131.