The Nature and Biodiversity Hub and International Centre of Ecohydraulics (ICER) headed to the new Bio:Space at Winchester Science Centre to celebrate UN’s World Environment Day on Saturday 5th June 2021.
CDT SIS and CDT SI Cities researchers Amelia Holgate, Lewis Dolman and Matt Hatfield of the International Centre for Ecohydraulics Research (ICER) demonstrated how fish navigate the many perils of a river as they migrate to members of the public in the Bio:Space outdoor activity area. In a COVID secure way they engaged with people and talked about their work.
It was nice to see such enthusiasm from kids spanning from around 3 – 12 (ish) in age. They grasped the concept very well and I think the hands-on concept of the marble run made it super fun for them, too.
Amelia Holgate, ICER PGR
The event was presented with the University of Southampton’s Nature and Biodiversity Hub, (BioHub). BioHub are always seeking new members with knowledge/interest in nature and biodiversity. To become a BioHub member and be added to the mailing list, please email biohub@soton.ac.uk.
This was the first in person event that the CDT SIS has been involved with since the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. We are looking forward to getting out again soon to keep engaging with the public about our research.
Members of the Biohub ran our interactive biodiversity games including Biodiversity Blockbusters and Only Connect to learn about endangered species. Prizes were handed out to the winners which were the Outdoor Learning Activity Packs created by the University of Southampton’s School-University Partnership team. This pack contained items such as seeds and conkers to engage in exciting activities such as creating your own bug house!
The ICER Marble Run displayed fish migration and the effects of man-made infrastructure through a river ecosystem. Special care was taken to ensure we followed all COVID guidance where possible. Our team enjoyed a bright and sunny day outside in the Bio:Space with adults and kids alike!