Have we got Newts for You!

People may remember that Jim Foster was the Amphibian & Reptile specialist for the government's nature conservation advisor Natural England (formerly English Nature) and previously before that was the widespread species officer at Froglife where he supported the Local ARG network through passing on his advice and knowledge over the phone at that time. The number of AR groups increased dramatically over the 1990's and continues to do so today. 

After leaving Natural England last year and starting up the consultancy Cristatus Ecology Jim had been working in a variety of 'interesting projects'.  Jim had to take up an opportunity to get back into the voluntary sector. He accepted an appointment to become the Conservation Director at Amphibian & Reptile Conservation and has started in the role from the 3rd September.  Jim explained further in an email to his contacts last week:- 

 'This is a new, full-time, permanent position, focusing on biodiversity policy'. 'It's an exciting opportunity to join a great organisation, and help them to make a real difference for amphibians and reptiles'. As a consequence, Cristatus Ecology will be closing down. I will keep the website up for occasional postings, and the email address will continue.'

Jim is looking forward to working with the ARG UK panel, and the 60+ local ARG's in the near future.  

All the ARG UK Panel and, we are sure, all the voluntary groups will be wishing Jim well in his new role and hope to see him at the Herpetofaun Workers' Meeting next year in Edinburgh. 

Contact information

Jim Foster

Conservation Director

Amphibian & Reptile Conservation

The Witley Centre

Witley

Godalming

Surrey GU8 5QA

Tel: 01428 681059

Mobile: 07554 455365

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: www.arc-trust.org