We work for nature’s recovery across Birmingham and the Black Country; protecting, restoring and creating wildlife-rich, accessible spaces that benefit people and wildlife.
Practical Conservation in Birmingham & the Black Country
Contact person
Natalie Burdett
#110348
Scan me or visit www.volunteerbrum.org/o/Birmingham--Black-Country-Wildlife-Trust/activities/Practical-Conservation-in-Birmingham--the-Black-Country/110348 to join
Summary
Conservation volunteering helps us protect and enhance habitats on our sites and reserves, through hands-on practical tasks. This is suitable for those aged 16+
Detailed description
Conservation tasks will be different depending on the site or reserve where you join us, but could include scrub clearance, path improvements, pond work, woodland management, seed sowing, tree felling and wildflower plug planting.
Activities also change throughout the seasons, as what we do is dictated by nature’s calendar. Spring and Summer is largely site maintenance and keeping pathways open, with late Summer and Autumn bringing wildflower meadow cuts and seed sowing. In the Winter, tasks such as scrub clearance, tree felling and bramble removal take place, as well as wildflower plug planting.
Most tasks use hand tools, but you may work with or alongside powered equipment for tougher jobs. Please bring sturdy footwear, waterproofs, a packed lunch and drink. Bringing sun cream and insect repellent is a good idea.
How to join us as a volunteer:
Before starting you will need to register with us via our volunteer management system (VMS). You can find out more on our website (under GET INVOLVED and Volunteer With Us).
Once registered, you should also read our Volunteer Handbook and agree to conditions in our Volunteer Agreement.
You don't need to join us every week, but we ask you to book onto sessions you plan to attend, to give us an idea on numbers.
If you are aged 16 or 17 we need a parent / guardian consent form.
If you need additional assistance or support, please let us know when you register.
What you can gain from this opportunity:
- contribute to the conservation of beautiful sites & reserves
- learn new practical skills & experience to put on a CV
- meet other like-minded people from the local community
- enjoy some fresh air and exercise
- reconnect with nature & improve health and wellbeing
- learn more about wildlife & our local green spaces
- We will provide a hot drink & biscuits for break time.
Skills You'll Need
You don’t need previous conservation experience – but you should be enthusiastic about nature.
You should:
• be able to follow instructions and work independently as part of a wider group
• be able to understand the importance of health and safety in the environment
• be able to adhere to health and safety requirements, as instructed by volunteer leaders
• have at least a basic level of fitness, as the role is physical and practical
• have mobility to move around sites, to bend and get up and down for tasks
• be willing to work outside in all weather and in remote locations
What we will provide to volunteers
💸 Reimbursement of costs
🤝 Extra support
About Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust
We work for nature’s recovery across Birmingham and the Black Country; protecting, restoring and creating wildlife-rich, accessible spaces that benefit people and wildlife.