Get back to nature
News release issued:
There is a chance for nature lovers to play a role in keeping the district’s reserves and countryside sites looking fantastic.
Wyre Forest District Council manages 15 nature reserves and is encouraging more people to get involved with their upkeep. The authority has been running a practical conservation group for the last thirty years. It is now looking for more people to join their volunteer days.
Volunteers can take part in a whole range of activities. There are plenty of opportunities - from keeping the heathlands open, coppicing to create woodland glades, keeping livestock fences in good order, building new steps and paths to improve access for all - to working on our wetlands. Volunteers meet on Wednesdays and Thursdays and can join in anytime between 10.00am and 3.00pm. No experience is required.
David Powell, who lives in Kidderminster has been a volunteer in the countryside team for six years. He said:
“I just love being outside. I am now retired and want to keep fit and active. Being in this team provides a regular routine in my week and it takes me away from everyday pressures. It’s my time to forget about everything else and of course it’s very sociable - you meet some great people!”
David added:
“Also you never know what you’re going to be part of. We maintain the open heathlands at the Rifle Range in Kidderminster and we create bee scrapes in the district’s sand dunes for insects to burrow and over-winter in. We coppice willow at Moorhall Marsh in Stourport to reclaim grazing space for Wyre Forest cattle and very occasionally I’ve even helped create basking areas for snakes. Whatever we do it’s fun, physical, outside and you just keep learning.”
Volunteers need to provide their own packed lunch. It is recommended to wear old clothes and take waterproof clothing. Strong walking boots or steel toe capped boots and a pair of gloves are also advised.
Councillor Tracey Onslow, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Arts and Community Service said:
“We are a district with lots of beautiful countryside and it provides sustainable habitats for our flora and fauna. It takes hard work to keep these spaces looking great, but it’s worth it for the conservation work we do and for the pleasure it brings to residents and visitors alike.
“So, if you have a bit of spare time and you like the outdoors, regardless of whether you have no experience or heaps of experience, please get in touch and let’s get started!”
For more information visit our ranger service volunteering pages.
Email rangers@wyreforestdc.gov.uk or call the Rangers on 01562 732972