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We thought we would add an extra section to our story this week as there is simply too much to share. Daffodils and Crocus framed by a fallen tree while Bluebells an Explosion of Spring Flowers bided there time ready to enter the fray. Thanks to our Countryside Ranger Friends - We couldn't possibly do this without you!

Ranger Greig introduces Holly to Holly and we can't decide what is brightest, the welcome winter sun or Holly's massive smile and enthusiasm! We made our way through this amazing environment wondering, wandering and asking as our two fantastic Countryside Ranger Guides took us on our nature adventure. Bamboozled by Bamboo and left puzzled at the question 'Does Nettle Soup Really Sound Like a Good Idea' we learned and laughed throughout our investigation. Some of us mentioned the colours that were on show and like with many of our winter adventure we longed to come back when winter sits in a previous chapter and the pages of spring and summer start to turn....

Listening - Looking - Laughing and Learning we travelled through seas of Colour with our Countryside Ranger Friends Ranger Gavin and Senior Countryside Ranger Alison Greig. Today's investigation identifying Springtime Flowers! We walked as we talked talking of hidden primrose and Colour laden crocus's! Ranger Greig explained the failings of Daffodils in relation to our Pollinator Pals and the reasons for this. She did add though that Daffodils are amazing flowers filled with color and variation. We talked of snow drops and how from January to March we were sure to see some.

FDAMH's Wild Wanderers got off to a great start as they discovered the wild places in and around the Walled Garden based on the Kinneil Estate and nature park in Bo'ness. Sustainable Thinking Scotland (CIC) gave us a tour of the Community growing space in the gardens and shared their extensive work to be eco-friendly and sustainable while producing nutritional produce which is donated to four of their local foodbanks. Participants took part in a treasure hunt, exploring the grounds of the gardens, and making maps of the area.

Another cold morning at Kinghorn Loch! The four group members that came along today rowed hard, and did an incredible amount of work out on the loch today. After some really impressive laps of the loch as a coxed four, the group split into 2 teams for time trial sprints on the loch. The results were close, with only one second between them! We were all glad of our hot drinks and rolls back at the Ecology Centre we can assure you. Thought you might enjoy some shots from around the loch today. It was a beautiful day indeed.

Back to the community garden, Emily had a list of jobs so she introduced the group to their allocated tasks. Emily had been asked to go to a CPR awareness course at the Fire Station, laid on by the Fire service. Always a handy skill to know if in the garden, especially if you are with 'more experienced' gardeners. The Fire Service also expressed the dangers of fire raising in a rural setting and how this could impact on those living and working in the area. We had time to continue the work at the garden and found some interesting creatures, that gave us an opportunity to discuss the ecosystem and the importance that they played. The garden is moving fast into production and they will use the no dig method, the pupils were aware of this as it the method used by Paul they met last week. Highlight of the day was finding out Sophie is a bit scared of spiders! Today we also said goodbye to Kirsty, she has been implemental in setting up the groups over the past four, I think years. Thank you for putting up with me it has been a pleasure.

We had to clear space and build a shelter for two!