We are excited to share that we are currently in the process of updating our interpretation across the Avalon Marshes. This will provide visitors to the reserves with an overview map and some basic information about each location. The real magic will be delivered through digital interpretation. Each sign will contain a QR code which points to new interactive digital content which can be accessed through a visitor’s mobile phone. This can also be updated easily and developed to meet the needs of our visitors.

However, one of the key challenges to developing digital interpretation across remote nature reserves is the lack of power and internet connectivity. Over the last few months, we’ve been working to develop a stand-alone solar powered digital interpretation experience for our visitors.

The digital interpretation is delivered through a platform called Info Point. Over Christmas the first Info Point access point went live at the Catcott Lows hide. We're currently testing and updating the hardware and content in preparation for rolling it out across the wider reserve.

What is Info Point?

Due to the poor mobile phone coverage in the location, visitors can still connect with digital content served by the InfoPoint. Info Point’s Solar-powered hardware allows Somerset Wildlife Trust to provide digital content even where a mains supply is not present and where mobile phone coverage is patchy. A battery provides back-up power when the solar panel is not receiving enough sunlight to ensure uninterrupted access.

Info Point is completely independent of the internet – it stores its own content and creates it’s own localised Wi-Fi network. This means visitors can use their own phone or tablet to connect and won’t incur any costs. However, Info Point does have the functionality to encourage and enable donations where appropriate.

What does it offer visitors?

Info Point delivers site-specific multimedia content to any mobile device. It rewards visitors for visiting because the stories and content we share through the Info Point are only available to those who come to our reserves.

Connecting to an Info Point is a simple two-step process. Visitors can then freely browse videos, audio, text, images and interactives without any downloads, logins or mobile data needed.

Visitors can use their smartphones to connect with information about the wildlife, landscape, a multi-media species-spotting guide, a webcam and interactive trails encouraging them to explore the reserve. The web cam has been particularly popular, offering a different perspective from the views they can access from the hide.

What next?

Over the coming weeks we will be expanding the network of Info Points across the Catcott reserve to connect visitors beyond the popular Catcott Lows hide and car park encouraging them to explore the wider reserve.

Keep an eye on our blog, socials and news section for more information on this innovative project!