Community fund support Caithness Biodiversity Action Plan
The Caithness Biodiversity Group is a group of around 20 volunteers with an interest in biodiversity and the environment. Their aim is to raise awareness, promote and improve the biological diversity of the Caithness area. They also play a key role in implementing the Caithness Biodiversity Action Plan.
The Coronation Meadows at Dunnet Bay is looked after by the group. This coastal meadow is rich in biodiversity and is home to over 200 species of wildflowers. In 2012, HRH The Prince of Wales called for the creation of new wildflower meadows, at least one in every county, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Coronation and the Dunnet Bay location was selected for Caithness. The area is managed with low-key and traditional methods however it is hard to find with no signs or information pointing to the site.
The group applied to the Stroupster Community Fund for a grant to improve access to the site and install an interpretation panel. They were awarded £2,810 to carry out this work. It was felt that by carrying out this would help promote the Meadows, improve wildlife tourism and help educate people about the rich flora in the meadow.
The group, in partnership with the landowner and the local Highlife Highland Rangers, created access across the ditches with suitable piping and hardcore. In addition, they installed a new gate on a self-closing latch; an interpretation panel and a flagstone plinth. The new gate will ensure the site can be accessed by those with limited mobility.
We were delighted to be successful in the funding application for this project. People have heard of the Coronation Meadow but have no idea where it actually is. The interpretation panel not only shows the location but gives some useful information about many of the plant species found in the meadow and information about the management of the links. We hope the panel will encourage people to visit the meadow and raise awareness about the wonderful plant species we have in our local area
Marina Swanson, HLH Countryside Ranger