Practical Conservation Group Volunteer

Taking place at Old Castle Down and surrounding area – Vale of Glamorgan.  (It’s between St Brides Major and Ewenny).  Other opportunities are available across South Wales

Purpose of role: To take part in practical conservation tasks on key sites for the benefit of the High Brown Fritillary butterfly.

Tasks:

• Ensure that you understand the work which needs to be carried out on site, why, where and how

• Carry out practical conservation tasks (cutting scrub, raking, uprooting invasive species, clear felling etc.) as directed by the group leader

• Follow the Health and Safety advice of the Group Leader at all times, keeping yourself and others safe and reporting any incidents
  

Dates, times, commitment and frequency:  This role is active year round, although most of the practical habitat management work in the Vale takes place between October and March.

Practical conservation days (“work parties”) are arranged at intervals during the season, but usually take place between 10am and 4pm on the chosen day.  You do not have to attend for the full session.

At present a group of volunteers work every Sunday morning between October and march, there is scope for other times to be available.

We ask for a minimum commitment to attend 1 work party over the course of one season. We will also ask you to complete training for the role.

Skills and abilities needed:

• You need to be capable of working outside for several hours, sometimes on uneven or steep ground.  Stout footwear and work gloves are essential

• An understanding of safe tool use, or a willingness to learn.  Hand tools such as bow saws and loppers are provided.

• Your behaviour will support Butterfly Conservation’s values

• Since many sites are rural with poor transport links, it can be useful to have your own transport. Car sharing will be encouraged - please let the Group Leader know if this would be helpful to you. Arrangements can be made for lifts from Llantwit Major or Bridgend

• No prior knowledge of butterflies and moths is required

Benefits and support provided:

This role gives great job satisfaction – you can see the impact of your work both on the day and in the following spring / summer. In addition to the many general benefits of volunteering with us, this role also provides the opportunity to:

• Learn more about the site and the butterflies and moths which use it

• Work with like-minded people and enjoy the social aspects of volunteering with us
  

Time commitment: We ask for a minimum commitment to attend 1 work party over the course of one season.
Expenses reimbursed: Travel expenses are reimbursed.
Training provided: Full training is provided.
Selection procedure: Informal discussion, application form completion and 2 references.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact us using the form below.