Chris Packham is keynote speaker for Chilterns conference

TV presenter and Naturalist, Chris Packham OBE is to be the keynote speaker for the brand-new Chilterns Champions Conference, taking place as part of the Chilterns Celebration this October. 

The aim of the conference is to showcase the work of citizen scientists, discuss key issues and inspire new volunteers to get involved.

The keynote speech from Chris Packham, who also finds time to be a nature photographer and an  author, will not only thank volunteers for all of their work in making Citizen Science in the UK the envy of projects around the world, but also showcase the ways in which data gathered by citizen scientists can make a real difference.

This full-day, online celebration of citizen science welcomes everyone – from those with a limited knowledge of heritage or to existing citizen scientists – and offers participants the chance to hear from expert speakers in heritage, water and wildlife, from the Chilterns and across the UK. The event will explore why citizen science matters, national recording schemes and looking out for wildlife, with a specific focus on citizen science and water and citizen science and heritage. 

The Conference will also discuss how best to inspire the next generation, and will hear from a youth panel of young citizen scientists who are working hard to engage new audiences in the world of conservation and volunteering. 

“I never cease to be amazed when I hear about the efforts many thousands of volunteers go to in supporting conservation projects in the UK. Citizen Science is hugely powerful in helping us not only better understand our wildlife and heritage but also informing decisions made by Government and decision makers. I can’t wait to join you on tOctober 24, to celebrate all of the work taking place across the Chilterns.” – Chris Packham 

Other expert speakers at the conference will include Gavin Siriwardena from the British Trust for Ornithology, Michael Pocock from the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Mick Jones from Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Environmental Records Centre, Allen Beechey from the Chilterns Chalk Streams project, Wendy Morrison of the Beacons of the Past project, John Shaw from Chiltern Rangers and many more. 

The conference is presently jointly by the Chalk Cherries and Chairs Landscape Partnership and the Beacons of the Past project, both projects of the Chilterns Conservation Board and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

To read more about the expert speakers, the topics to be discussed and panel members, visit the Eventbrite page here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/117674927877 

Book your free place at the conference using the above link. 

Find the full schedule of events organised as part of the Chilterns Celebration and details on how to book your place at www.chilternsaonb.org/ccc-fest.html.