Spalford Warren Action Group (SWAG) Lead Volunteer

Spalford Warren Action Group (SWAG) Lead Volunteer

Location:

Spalford Warren,

The reserve (Grid Ref. SK829678) lies to the east of the A1133 Newark-Gainsborough road, almost midway between the minor roads to Girton and Spalford., Between Newark and Gainsborough, Nottinghamshire, NG23 7HZ
We're looking for a leader for our volunteer habitat management team at Spalford Warren Nature Reserve!

Position details

Commitment:

Saturday

Frequency:

Monthly

Spalford Warren is a beautiful heathland, acid grassland and woodland nature reserve, located between the villages of Girton and Spalford (What3Words: suckle.detained.intruders).

It is designated as a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) for the rare habitats it contains and the species that rely on it, including plants, moths, fungi, insects and reptiles. Therefore, it is vital it receives regular maintenance from a team of dedicated practical conservation volunteers to keep it in top condition so nature can flourish.

This site is part of a wider project, Thriving in a Wilder Trent, and will be receiving funding for some large-scale habitat restoration. This role will help support this work in the long term and increase sustainability of the site.

What does this role involve?

  • Lead the Spalford Warren Action Group, a team of volunteers in carrying out practical habitat management at Spalford Warren nature reserve, as directed by staff.
  • Help ensure all vehicles, machinery, tools and equipment are left in suitable condition or repaired. Basic hand tools and a first aid kit will be provided to the lead volunteer to use with the rest of the volunteers, however these are required to be stored and cared for by the lead volunteer.
  • Deliver grassland and woodland management, habitat creation, scrub clearance, basic tree work, fencing repairs, hedge laying and control of invasive species under guidance from staff.
  • Help staff to ensure a safe environment for people and wildlife.
  • Support efforts to enhance the conservation value, infrastructure and visitor experiences at Spalford Warren nature reserve.
  • Assist with the monitoring of habitat management activity and its impact on land managed by the Trust for nature conservation.
  • Follow health and safety guidance and risk management protocols for all activities.

What experience and skills do I need?

  • It is desirable to have previous experience of outdoor volunteering in a practical setting, including tool use
  • First aid qualification is required for this role, NWT will provide training if needed
  • High level of enthusiasm, self-motivation and self-discipline
  • Ability to give clear instructions to the volunteer team
  • Ability to work as part of a team and on own initiative
  • Flexible and positive approach
  • Demonstrable commitment to nature conservation

What are the benefits of volunteering?

  • Training and ongoing support provided, including first aid training
  • Possible training available depending on the applicant in the use of power tools such as brush cutter and chainsaw.
  • Gain valuable experience for future employment prospects
  • Meet new people and work as part of a team
  • Learn new skills and about habitat management
  • Improved fitness, health and wellbeing
  • A full induction and demonstration of safe use of tools and habitat care
  • Help protect your local environment
  • Feel more connected to nature

How much time am I expected to commit?

First Saturday of each month.

This role is based at Spalford Warren Nature Reserve.

This role is voluntary.

Is a reference required?

No references or DBS checks required.