New Galloway GKT Info Shelter (New Galloway, lower car park) [due to be completed in April 2010]

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RSPB Kenmure Holms Reserve [due to be installed by April 2010] Site of International Importance Nearby Kenmure Holms and the Loch Ken reservoir, between the old railway viaduct and the village of Crossmichael, are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).  They are further designated under the Ramsar Convention on internationally important wetlands and under the European Birds Directive, as a Special Protection Area (SPA), for their importance as winter roost sites for Greenland white-fronted and Icelandic greylag geese. Caring for Nature Through Conservation We are managing the area to make it even better for wildlife, mowing some areas in late summer and by controlling the willow scrub and shallow flooding. The marsh and scrub lie over soft mud, with concealed channels and the area is prone to rapid flooding. Wildlife Haven This extensive fen and willow carr (scrub) is one of the largest wilderness areas on Loch Ken. The marshes are home to several scarce and rare species of animals, including the harvest mouse, otter, willow tit, barn owl and water rail. In winter, shallow flooding attracts large numbers of waterfowl, including whooper swan and ducks such as shoveler, teal and mallard. RSPB Ken-Dee Marshes Reserve There are no visitor facilities on Kenmure Holms but hides, parking and access are all available on the reserve at Mains of Duchrae, 8 miles to the south of New Galloway and 4 miles north of Glenlochar village. To get the best experience of the reserve and local area, follow the path along the flood bank and field edges. This path, managed by Dumfries & Galloway Council, begins at the end of the car park and follows the stream to the reserve boundary. History of New Galloway [due to be installed by April 2010]