Volunteering at Watchtree - whats in it for you?
Above: Derek and the gang hay strewing Above: Jean (pretending to hide) removing a tree guard
Recently completed volunteer jobs (Jan 2012); Hedge planting....who knows, you could have planted something that a Yellowhammer or Reed Bunting may eventually choose to nest in!, Footpath construction....many feet will stay dry as a result of your hard efforts! and scrub clearance....opening up the pond area will create additional dragonfly habitat and will enhance the visitor experience!
Volunteer jobs in the next few weeks (Feb 2012); Coppicing, path construction, fence dismantling, potting, gardening and much more.
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You'll get fit.
Our volunteeers get involved with tasks including footpath construction (moving barrow loads of stone - great for the quads and biceps and really gets the oxygen flowing); pulling out excessive pond vegetation (strengthens the back muscles - you might even find some newts!) and coppicing - clearing woody regrowth (your arms will feel like Popeye's at the end of this one). There are loads of other jobs to do including creating Ringed Plover breeding mats, constructing bird viewing screens and fencing.
- You'll meet lots of very friendly people.
Our volunteers have a reputation for making everyone feel welcome - many come back again and again....some have been here for years.
- You'll learn new skills and potentially gain new qualifications.
We organise courses and get our volunteers qualified if a particular project requires one.
When can you volunteer?
Wednesday's at 10:30am and the 1st Saturday of the month again at 10:30am. Sessions usually last until the afternoon (depending on what needs doing). Just bring some old clothes (we are not fashion police but please, no pink leggings!)
There are always administrative roles so if you're good with I.T we can usually find something for you.
Educational volunteering
Schools, youth groups, cubs, scouts, universities and colleges have all completed volunteer projects at Watchtree. Why not try the John Muir Award (Discover, Explore, Conserve and Share - this award is nationally recognised and all participants get a very nice certificate).
John Muir Award role of honour (those groups/schools who have successfully completed the award)
James Rennie School, Lime House School (x3 'Discovery' and 'Explorer' Awards), Caldew School, Wigton Youth Station and Caldew (COPE), Garden Links and Broadacre House.
Contact
Tim Lawrence, Manager, 01228 712539/07772207594 or email wnr@watchtree.co.uk