Volunteering
Ever thought of volunteering at one of Wales’s
National Nature Reserves? The Countryside Council for Wales depends
on dedicated volunteers to help run NNRs. And becoming a volunteer
warden can be very rewarding.
What do NNR volunteers do?
Duties include:
- Patrolling the reserve, being the ‘eyes and ears’ on the
ground.
- Leading guided walks and helping with events.
- Doing small-scale, routine maintenance such as fence repairs or
putting a gate back on its hinges.
- Surveying and monitoring the site according to abilities and
interest.
What skills and qualities do I need?
Above all, we are looking for people with a passion for their
local area, an interest in and knowledge of its wildlife – plus the
ability to communicate it.
Some sites need specialist skills, including:
- diving or caving qualifications
- a technical expertise
- a particular interest and experience in a habitat or species
group
How much commitment will it involve?
You need to be able to visit the NNR regularly, but the time
spent there can vary depending on the site. To find out how much
commitment is involved, talk to the reserve manager about how it
can fit in with your schedule – see contact details below.
What are the benefits?
Just think about it – you’ll be helping your local community to
enjoy the National Nature Reserve on its doorstep, and to value its
presence. And there is the satisfaction of knowing that you are
working on one of the best nature reserves in Wales, and helping to
conserve its wildlife and habitats.
How do I go about it?
If this appeals to you, drop us a short letter saying why you
would like to become a voluntary warden, how you would like to
contribute and the NNR where you would like to volunteer.
There is a short application procedure – we have to make sure
our volunteer wardens are volunteering for the right reasons, and
that the important species on the site will continue to be
protected. When we receive your letter we will send you details.
Please contact our Enquiries line on 0845 1306229.