Kinross Rain Gardens Trail Project: Enhancing Biodiversity and Connectivity

29th October, 2024


The Kinross Rain Gardens Trail Project has taken significant strides in its mission to enhance local biodiversity and create vital connections for wildlife. This year, the initiative encompassed four key projects, including pollinator-friendly planting at the edges of the Kinross park and ride, landscape improvements to wetlands at the South Queich Flood Area, the establishment of a new hedgerow at Kinross Rugby Club, and a survey to design amphibian pools within the South Queich catchment. These efforts contribute to the development of nature networks essential for wildlife survival.

This year marks the third biodiversity project undertaken by Kinross-shire Civic Trust (KCT) in just three years. A primary focus has been improving wetlands in Kinross to support the declining amphibian population. Recent studies have shown a staggering 68% drop in common toad populations in the UK over the past three decades, largely due to habitat loss—a major threat to Scotland’s native amphibians and reptiles.

Thanks to the Nature Restoration Funding from Perth and Kinross Council, KCT has made great strides in addressing this critical issue. The project includes commissioning a survey and report on the South Queich to create additional amphibian habitats. By developing these spaces, KCT aims to provide safe breeding and living areas for amphibians, reversing habitat loss in the Kinross-shire area.

Community involvement plays a vital role in the success of the Kinross Rain Gardens Trail Project. Volunteers participate in a seasonal "Pooling our Ponds" survey to monitor the health and thriving of species within the newly enhanced habitats. Additionally, gullypot surveys, led by the Tay Amphibian Reptile Group (TayARG), continue to engage local volunteers.

We encourage residents and visitors alike to explore the Kinross Rain Gardens Trail and appreciate the vital role these habitats play in supporting our local wildlife.

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