Environment Minister Michael Russell has announced £1.24m of funding for environmental renewal projects across the country.

He unveiled the spending plan while visiting one of the schemes it will support in Dumfries and Galloway.

The RSPB's Mersehead Reserve has been awarded £80,00 to turn a derelict farmhouse into a learning centre.

Mr Russell said such projects could make a "real difference" in improving the environment.

The awards form the first round of this year's Community Environmental Renewal Scheme (CERS) funds.

"The CERS is designed to help communities across Scotland living in the vicinity of quarrying activity to boost their quality of life through restoring their local environment," said Mr Russell.

"Community action can make a real difference in improving environments and changing attitudes.

"This grant scheme supports our objective of creating a greener Scotland - by improving Scotland's natural and built environment and the sustainable use and enjoyment of it."

The funds were welcomed by RSPB Scotland's Dumfries and Galloway Area Manager Chris Rollie.

He said that along with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund it would allow them to "transform" the old farmhouse.

"We will be able to give local school children and other groups the opportunity to learn more about the wonderful nature on their doorstep," he said.

"It is especially pleasing that the Scottish government is backing our vision, and that the minister has come along to see the plans for himself."

The grants from the first round of this year's Community Environmental Renewal Scheme (CERS) are aimed specifically at communities who are in the vicinity of quarrying activity.

For more information, visit the Scottish Executive news item here http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/08/02100609