Conservation volunteers set to mark third year of service

East Devon Conservation volunteers have dedicated an amazing 1800 hours to help keep the countryside looking beautiful since they were established more than two years ago.

The volunteering group was established in September 2013 and since then the group has gone from strength to strength. There are now a number of regular volunteers who give up their time to play an important role in the development and conservation of the district's fantastic wildlife and habitats.

Under the guidance of Countryside Ranger, Nathan Robinson, the volunteers help with the practical management of the district council’s nature reserves.

Nathan Robinson said: “It’s been a pleasure working with such a diverse group of dedicated people. All the volunteers come from different backgrounds and each volunteering session provides a great social occasion bringing people from across East Devon’s communities together.

“Each volunteer offers something different, whether it is expertise in hedge laying, a passion for wildlife protection or the ability to tell a good joke at tea time!”

The volunteers have developed new practical skills and grown in their understanding of habitat management techniques through their involved in a variety of tasks throughout the year including; scrub clearance, coppicing, tree felling, hedge laying, wildlife surveys and control of invasive species.

Volunteers are essential for the conservation and preservation of East Devon’s countryside sites.

The group is very welcoming and there is no experience necessary, just a willingness to get stuck in! If you are interested in volunteering for the Countryside team please email countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk or call 01395 517557.