FIOS COLUMN – JANUARY 2016

NUMBER 3

It has been another productive few weeks at the building site in Galson with windows and doors being installed and the ventilation and also the heating system equipment arriving on site. The scaffolding has now come down and you can really see how the building looks. For progress on site check out photos on our website www.galsontrust.com

We are currently working with Community Energy Scotland and Hebridean Housing Partnership as part of a pilot project to install three 5Kw Avance turbines at the social houses in Galson and Airidhantium. The turbines will provide these homes with cheaper electricity. Kirsty has now left the Urras, but is continuing to work on this project.

After almost six years as the Countryside Ranger for the trust we are saying farewell to Julie Sievewright. Julie has accepted a post with SCRIPD, in the Stornoway office, as an Agricultural Officer. Julie was the only member of staff in the Urras office for a number of years and during that time has worked on a large number of projects. She has successfully implemented a number of environmental programmes within the schools as well as engaging with various youth groups. She has worked closely with the management group of Loch Stiapabhat, local nature reserve as well as delivering a successful walks programme throughout the Summer each year. These are just some of the things Julie has been involved with but gives a flavour of her varied work programme.

The ranger service started in November 2005 and was supported with funding from Scottish Natural Heritage and Western Isles Enterprise (now Highlands and Islands enterprise) for it to run for three years. In 2008 a further funding package for three years was secured from Scottish Natural Heritage and The Robertson Trust. Mick Blunt from the John Muir Trust has acted as a mentor to Julie during her time in post and this support has really helped the development of the work programme. The Ranger post is and continues to be of huge importance to the Urras area.

On behalf of the Urras I would like to thank Julie for her commitment and wish her all the very best in her new role. I hope she will stay in touch and maybe drop into the new offices on her way home from her new work.

Best wishes,

Lisa