SEDInspire Lecture: ‘Ecology & Geology of Costa Rica’ with Ben Dobson
By Dr Philip Hoskin
On Friday 7th November, Sedbergh was delighted to welcome back Old Sedberghian Ben Dobson (SH 1986–91), who delivered a truly fascinating and inspirational talk on “The Amazing Ecology of Costa Rica.” It was a particular honour and a real pleasure to introduce Ben – not only a distinguished Old Sedberghian but also a close personal friend and a friend of many within our school community.
Ben’s connection with Sedbergh runs deep. A proud member of Cressbrook House, he joined the School in 1984 and left in 1991, having distinguished himself both academically and on the sports field. He represented the School 1st XV rugby team alongside future World Cup winner Will Greenwood and served as Secretary of the Sedgwick Society, Sedbergh’s own ornithological society. His early passion for conservation was already clear, notably through his work helping to develop the Bruce Loch Reserve and the “Old and Peculiar Pool” – projects for which he was honoured to meet Prince Philip at their official opening.
Ben’s lifelong interest in the natural world led him to study Agricultural Environmental Science at Newcastle University before embarking on a career in forestry and fisheries. By the age of just 21, he was running Stocks Reservoir, which he transformed into one of the premier fly-fishing venues in the British Isles. Over the next 25 years, he and his team developed Stocks into a centre of excellence, renowned for its superb trout rearing and hosting of major national events. His achievements as a competitor are equally impressive: Ben earned his first England cap in 2006, helping to secure gold in Ireland, became Lexus European Individual Fly-Fishing Champion in 2013, and added another team gold in 2016. Today, he continues his work in conservation and angling at Bank House Fly Fishery in Caton, which he runs with his wife, Charlotte.
In his talk, Ben transported his audience far from the Howgills to the tropical rainforests and volcanic peaks of Central America, guiding us through the extraordinary landscapes of Costa Rica; one of the most biodiverse nations on Earth. Ben’s encyclopaedic command of so many intertwined disciplines was remarkable. Drawing seamlessly on geology, chemistry, biology, geography, and environmental science, Ben explored the intricate forces that have shaped the region. He described in fascinating detail the tectonic origins of Costa Rica’s volcanoes, the soil chemistry, the lush rainforests, and the processes of evolution and adaptation that have led to over 500,000 species inhabiting this small yet astonishingly complex country.
Ben’s delivery was both authoritative and deeply engaging – a model of clear, confident public speaking infused with humour and infectious enthusiasm. His vivid explanations brought to life the relationships between geology, ecology, and biodiversity, helping listeners appreciate not just the science but the wonder of it all. Whether explaining migratory patterns, rainforest fertility or the survival strategies of Costa Rican wildlife, Ben’s passion shone through every word.
Ben concluded by inviting his audience to step away from the relentless doom narrative and simply sit quietly among the trees of Akay Wood for ten unhurried minutes. In that stillness, Ben described how shy creatures will return, and the woodland will slowly come alive again: a chorus of birdsong, the hum of insects, and the quiet pulse of nature itself. An opportunity to pause, to breathe, to reconnect – surely the purest and most restorative way to relax.
Ben’s lecture was, in every sense, a masterclass – in natural science, in storytelling, and in the art of inspiring curiosity. The audience left with a renewed sense of awe for the natural world and deep admiration for Ben’s work as a conservationist, educator, and communicator.
Sedbergh is immensely proud of Ben’s achievements and grateful for the insight, enthusiasm, and generosity he brought to this memorable evening. His talk was not only a celebration of Costa Rica’s ecology but also a powerful reminder of the importance of curiosity, care, and stewardship for the world around us.
