Guest Speakers
One of the unique features of Rotary clubs is that we regularly have speakers attend our meetings to talk to us about a wide variety of local issues, such as new developments, charitable activities, and business issues. This is a great way to combine professional networking and learning more about the things that go on in our community.
Breakfast meetings with speakers are usually on the last Thursday of the month, and tend to be more busy, so please ensure that you have confirmed your place with our Attendance Secretary, and that you arrive by 7:15am to enable us to give plenty of time to our visiting speaker.
If you would be interested in talking to the club one morning, or know of someone else who might, please contact our Speakers Secretary.
Thursday 25 February 2010
Maddy Rees, Bristol Conservation and Science Foundation
Maddy Rees from the Bristol Conservation and Science Foundation will be talking to us about their efforts in preventing certain species of animals dwindling in numbers in their natural UK habitats. Particular reference will be made to the South West Crayfish Project.
With a background in conservation, research and education, Maddy has worked for a number of years both internationally and in the UK. She is now a dedicated member of the Bristol Conservation and Science Foundation, affiliated with Bristol Zoo Gardens. Working as Communication Officer on the South West Crayfish Project she is dedicated to raising awareness of the plight of this valuable fresh-water animal and of some of the simple steps the public can take to help save this species.
South West Crayfish Project: With up to 95% of White-clawed crayfish populations lost in some areas of the UK, they are now protected by law and are designated as a UK and Bristol Biodiversity Action Plan priority species. Traditionally effected by pollution and habitat destruction, it has been the introduction of a new species that has seen the down fall of this important native species. The spread of North American Signal crayfish and a devastating disease, the crayfish plague, can be prevented by simple steps. Learn more about this fascinating species, conservation issues the South West Crayfish Project is facing and how you can make a difference. Read more here about the Crayfish Project.