Practical Conservation Volunteer

We are looking for volunteers to take part in practical conservation tasks on key sites for the benefit of moths and butterflies.

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

You would:

• 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

This role is active year round although most of the practical habitat management work in the Vale of Glamorgan takes place between October and March.

Practical conservation days (“work parties”) are arranged at intervals during the season.  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

• You need to be capable of working outside for several hours, sometimes on uneven or steep ground

• An understanding of safe tool use, or a willingness to learn

• Your behaviour will support Butterfly Conservation’s values

• It can be useful to have your own transport (expenses will be paid). Car sharing will be encouraged - please let the Group Leader know if this would be helpful to you

• No prior knowledge of butterflies and moths is required

Benefits and Support Provided

This role gives great 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: Volunteers will have an informal chat and then invited to try out a session.  If to continue, volunteers will then be asked to register with Butterfly Conservation via their ASSEMBLE portal, ensuring insurance cover.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact us using the form below.