Still time to register for GWCT Rat Control for Gamekeepers training courses in Angus and Dumfries.
A limited number of places remain on the rodenticide training courses being run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust near Drumlanrig, Dumfries-shire (10 March), and Glenogil, Angus (11 March).
From July this year anyone without the proper certificate, or who does not have an alternative qualification for using aluminium phosphide gas, will be restricted to using amateur-pack rodenticides, or reliance on traps, shooting and terriers, for the control of rats.
The Rat Control for Gamekeepers course is classroom based and includes a one-hour long multiple-choice BASIS administered exam that can be taken on the day or preferably on-line during a two-week period after the course.
The course, which is jointly owned by GWCT, Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA), the Countryside Alliance, the National Gamekeepers Organisation (NGO), the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) and the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU), is approved by the HSE.
Hugo Straker of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust says:
"This course has been put together by those directly involved in the sector for the sector and having this qualification will be an essential part of every gamekeeper’s skill set. Successful attendees will be able to purchase and deploy second generation anticoagulant rodenticides in open rural areas as part of their integrated approach for enhancing biodiversity, the conservation of ground nesting birds, food security and of course human health."
The course cost for members of the owning organisations is £150.00 plus VAT, discounted from the £200 plus VAT for non members, and includes course literature, training, the examination, and certificate allowing the purchase and use of professional rodenticides.
For more information and for those wishing to attend one of the courses contact:
Irene Johnston
Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust Scottish HQ
Telephone: 01738 551511
