Contractor Training

Objective 2

Status
Complete

This programme sought to address the shortage in groundworks operatives (contractors & public sector) who are skilled, confident and experienced in undertaking habitat management, with the end goal of climate adaptation or mitigation.

2C_Black Devon Socials Post Feb 2025.jpg — The first of our contractor training sessions took place at RSPB Black Devon Wetlands. Participants learned about the work that has taken place at the reserve to ensure valuable habitat for nature and biodiversity.

The success of Scotland's response to climate change will likely depend on how land and habitats are managed - in terms of adapting to impacts and achieving net zero.

Recent research by NatureScot found that the workforce needed to implement nature-based solutions is currently insufficient in number, skills, and training. This is also reflected in real-life experience of land managers within the Inner Forth, when they have to procure contractors for work at key habitats, and have challenges finding suitable service providers with experience.

To try and tackle these skills gaps, we piloted this Contractor Training activity by offering a free practical skills training programme, which was run on our behalf by TCV Scotland.

The open events tackled the topics of wetland restoration, woodland and fen management and urban greenspace improvements. Then we offered more practical onsite training days alongside a series of short toolbox talks.

We have finished delivery of these sessions now and would like to thank TCV, our funders, and everyone who came along to take part.

Toby Wilson, Senior Conservation Officer for RSPB Scotland, leads the group in a training session about Black Devon Wetlands recent habitat works.

Blue skies at Black Devon Wetlands, for the first of our Contractor Training sessions.

Izzie Curnock from Green Action Trust leading our Rannoch Park session for contractors.

A great turnout at Rannoch Park to learn about the works we carried out in partnership with Falkirk Council and Green Action Trust.

Project Location

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