The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Entomological Society

Charity Number: 519240

The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Entomological Society (DaNES) is a UK-based nonprofit organization dedicated to the study, recording, and promotion of entomology and other land arthropods in the counties of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Established in 1914, the society has a longstanding history of more than a century in fostering appreciation and scientific understanding of the diverse insect fauna within this region.

History

Founded on 7 March 1914 at Derwent House, Duffield Road, Derby, the society was originally named the Derbyshire Entomological Society. Over the years, it developed close ties with local institutions such as Derby Technical College and the Derby Museum & Art Gallery, which regularly hosted meetings. The society's commitment to both scientific study and public engagement has been evident in its evolution, including the staging of exhibitions aimed at educating the general public. Starting with a modest exhibition in 1968 at Clay Cross, public events later moved to larger venues such as Elvaston Castle and Broomfield Agricultural College to accommodate growing interest[1][4].

Mission and Activities

DaNES’s mission is to educate the public to appreciate and enjoy the study of general entomology, with a particular focus on land arthropods in the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire area. The society has been actively recording insect life in these counties for over 100 years, maintaining a computerized database that supports conservation efforts by monitoring species populations and biodiversity changes over time[1][2].

The society organizes a range of activities including:

• Monthly committee meetings to manage society affairs and plan fieldwork and events.
• Field trips and insect recording sessions open to members and the public.
• Production of a quarterly newsletter and an annual journal to inform and engage its membership.
• Public exhibitions and educational events aimed at inspiring interest in entomology and insect conservation[1][4].

Contributions and Partnerships

DaNES shares its extensive insect records with national biological recording schemes to support broader conservation initiatives. The society's data is made available to planners, developers, and conservation organizations to help identify and protect vulnerable species and habitats.

The society is affiliated with the North Western Naturalists’ Union and the British Naturalists’ Association, positioning it within a wider network of natural history and entomological groups. Support for the society's activities has come from various sources, including grants from the National Lottery and the Open Air Laboratories (Opal) project. Educational and meeting venues have been provided by institutions such as the University of Derby, Nottingham Trent University, and Derbyshire County Council[1].

Recognition and Status

The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Entomological Society is recognized as a registered charity, underscoring its commitment to environmental education and conservation for public benefit. It is also listed among international entomological societies, contributing to the global community of insect researchers and enthusiasts[2][3].

This society plays a vital role in enthusing both amateur and professional entomologists while contributing valuable scientific data for the preservation of insect biodiversity in the Midlands region of England.

[1] https://www.danes-insects.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/519240/full-print [3] https://entsoc.org/membership/branches/international/international-entomological-societies [4] https://www.danes-insects.org.uk/Resources/DaNES_Journal_168.pdf [5] https://www.royensoc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Antenna-Volume-34-1-2010-10MB.pdf