Plans to create new nature reserve at Fife beauty spot

The Arncroach and Carnbee Community Development Trust wants to create a nature reserve to follow the course of the Dreel Burn, to the site where it meets the Gillingshill nature reserve.

The group wants to replace the current derelict steps, lay out a gravel path and install seating, however, in order for this project to go ahead, the team needs to secure funding.

A fundraising page has been launched with the aim of raising £4500, with those who donate receiving rewards.

These include a two-hour guided walk through the area to learn about the different species of native birds, a two-hour introduction course to foraging, a visit to a local micro brewery, and much more.

Work has already started on the project. A group of young farmers helped clear some of the path. However, there is still much more to do.

Explaining why the group wants to create a nature reserve, member Moira Mukherjee said: “The land is there and it’s not being used for farming. There used to be some access into the land, but it was not accessible all year round because it would become overgrown.

“The current nature reserve is well used. It’s very good during spring and summer. We just want to extend it further and make it accessible all year round.

“We also want to promote the area. A lot of people do not know that the nature reserve is here – and these are people who are coming from nearby villages.”

As well as improving the paths, the team also want to educate people about the wide variety of wildlife that calls the area home, by installing new education boards.

“We’d like to increase the educational aspect of the reserve,” Moira added.

“There is only one sign at the moment, which says what you can find. We want kids to learn more about nature and the environment.”

If you would like to find out more about the project, watch a short film explaining the plans, or make a donation to help create the new nature reserve, visit the fundraising page – www.crowdfunder.co.uk/dreel-side-nature-reserve.