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Encouraging the return of pine martens and red squirrels to Kirkcudbright Training Centre

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Conservation, Environment and Ecology, Wildlife
Two pine martens standing on rocks. One is looking at the camera. They both have brown fur with pale patches at their throats.

As Deputy Training Safety Officer for Kirkcudbright Training Centre in Dumfries and Galloway, I’ve been spending some of my time on a project designed to help Scotland’s native red squirrels. Kirkcudbright Training Centre is primarily used for infantry training, including …

Year in Review: looking back at 2021

A Chinook hovers over a barge holding large bags of aggregate.

To nobody’s surprise, 2021 has presented just as many challenges as 2020. Fortunately, DIO’s teams have been up to the task and have continued to work hard for our Armed Forces customers. Here are some of the highlights of the …

Increasing our capabilities in the sustainable management of the Defence estate

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Defence Training Estate (DTE), Environment and Ecology, Sustainability
The photo shows a road which is surrounded on both sides by areas of grass and trees, which are of a healthy, vibrant green appearance.

The DIO Technical Services team is full of expert practitioners in various fields from archaeology to engineering, and now boasts even more expertise than before thanks to the introduction of 18 new posts related to climate resilience and sustainability. The …

Restoring native tussac grass habitats in the Falkland Islands

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: BFSAI, Environment and Ecology, Falkland Islands
In the foreground, clumps of healthy tussac grass can be seen on a sloped section of Middle Island's coast. Behind this there are a few rocky outcrops in the water, with the sea stretching into the horizon.

  One of the major responsibilities shared by DIO and British Forces South Atlantic Islands (BFSAI) is the sustainable management of land and facilities used by British forces in the Falkland Islands. This includes the conservation of some of the …

Restoring vital sand dune habitats at Penhale Training Area, Cornwall

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Conservation, Environment and Ecology
Three people in dark clothing kneel on the ground looking at something between them. They are on a grassy area with the sea behind them.

The UK Defence Training Estate is home to a diverse range of habitats and wildlife species, many of which have been granted protected status. Through our work with industry partners, conservation organisations, and the UK Armed Forces themselves, DIO is …

Removing unexploded ordnance at Former Air Weapons Range RAF Cowden

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Explosive Ordnance Clearance
An explosion has sent sand blasting in all directions in the top of the image. The foreground is a sandy beach.

I recently organised and held a visitors’ day to highlight the MOD’s approach to removing unexploded ordnance from Mappleton Beach at Former Air Weapons Range RAF Cowden. The visit also enabled DIO to further connect with stakeholders on this unique …