Learn about John and his role as a Nature Reserve Warden.
Every year, The Wildlife Information Centre (TWIC) presents an individual or organisation with the Bob Saville Award. Bob Saville was one of the founders of The Wildlife Information Centre, and a well-known face in biological recording in Scotland until his death in 2010. The Bob Saville Award was established in his memory, to recognise individuals who make an extraordinary contribution to biological recording and nature conservation. At the TWIC conference in November 2021, our own John Harrison (Aberlady Bay Local Nature Reserve Warden) was presented with the award.
Due to Covid, the conference was held online, however Sarah Eno (TWIC Chair) was able to share some of John’s achievements since joining East Lothian Countryside Ranger Service in 2007. John has wide ranging skills in species identification, but with a special interest in birds and moths. He has used these skills to undertake a comprehensive programmes of species recording and monitoring at Aberlady Bay LNR (and further afield), and has so far contributed a whopping 12,500 records to TWIC over the years. Many will also be aware that John collates and submits records on behalf of volunteers, which now number 14,000 records thanks to John’s enthusiasm and dedication.
On receiving the award, John said: “Thank you so much to everybody at TWIC for the award. I am honoured to receive it, particularly knowing the illustrious list of previous recipients. I very much enjoy wildlife recording and want to thank the East Lothian Council Countryside team for the support that enables us to still do this. Many Countryside Ranger Services throughout Scotland are no longer able to do survey and monitoring work, so I appreciate their support. The work of our volunteers is absolutely tremendous! Having the best outdoor classroom in the area (nay the world!) helps a lot in inspiring new people to get involved. I’d also like to acknowledge the work of TWIC, who collate all the data, make good use of the records, and engender a community of friendly and welcoming people – there’s always someone there to help you get involved with recording projects.”
Many congratulations John!
