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Forging partnerships that will create a sustainable future for nature'
Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Forum's Weekly Environmental E-Bulletin
6 March 2008
(Comments and notices featured in this bulletin do not necessarily reflect
the views of ONCF. Should you disagree with any items and wish to post a
clear counter-argument please send it in along with the date of the bulletin
and number of the item concerned. Editor's discretion applies, naturally.
Thanks).
NOTICES
1. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee report on badgers
and cattle TB - The Wildlife Trusts' response
2. Power into your Project Scheme
3. Northmoor Trust Clumps Wildlife Appeal
4. OCV booking tasks for the next quarter
5. Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve - Volunteering Opportunities
6. Ignite Woodfuel courses available across the UK
7. New £10m grants programme to help communities reduce their carbon
footprint
8. Eco inventions competition launched
9. Oxfordshire gets fit for wildlife
10. Work Placement Required
EVENTS
11. Green Drinks at the Cape of Good Hope, 1 Iffley Road
12. County Wide Swap Shops
13. Community Tree Planting event
14. Ss Mary & John Churchyard Planting Day
15. Honeybees and beekeeping
16. Field Outing to the Forest of Dean, Gloucester
17. Green Feast - Explore the Multiple Meanings of Sustainable Food
18. Chefs source the best Local Flavours
19. Wychwood Gardeners' Question Time
20. Ethiopian Endemics
21. Hope for Planet Earth climate change tour
22. Outdoor first aid
23. Lambing Weekend at Northmoor Trust
24. Save Radley Lakes Quiz Night
25. From Greenfields to RAMSAR, the story of Rutland
26. Finding and keeping volunteers - a 'hands on' workshop
27. Easter Eggstravaganza
28. Lambing Weekend at Northmoor Trust
29. Nature Trail Easter Egg Hunt
30. Diversity in Stone guided walk - Ashbury, Oxfordshire
31. Fair Trade Coffee Morning
32. Local Barn Owl Synergy Symposium
33. Events Activities Workshop
34. Clumps Club
35. Working in conservation
36. Hurdle making
37. Fun With Environmental Education Workshop
38. Restoring threatened farmland species and wildflower habitats
VACANCIES
39. Bioscan UK Limited - Senior Ecologists and Project Managers - Oxford
40. Kent Wildlife Trust - 3 posts
41. EiE Project Coordinator
42. Research Assistant, Chimney Meadows (Voluntary)
43. Community Wildlife Trainee, Bucks
44. Volunteer Posts with BBOWT
45. PA to Regional Director/Office Manager
46. Cotswold Way National Trail Officer
47. Oxfordshire Reserves Officer
48. Wild Trout Trust Conservation Officers x 3
SEE BELOW VACANCIES FOR DETAILS OF REGULAR WORK PARTIES:
ASTON ROWANT NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE VOLUNTEER GROUP
BARTON FIELDS GREEN TEAM
BBOWT WORK PARTIES
BTCV GREEN GYMS (ABINGDON, BICESTER, CHIPPING NORTON, SONNING COMMON, and
WALLINGFORD)
HENLEY WILDLIFE GROUP WORK PARTIES
NORTHMOOR TRUST FRIDAY WORK PARTY
OXFORD CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS TASKS
OXFORD URBAN WILDLIFE GROUP
OXFORD VOLUNTEER RANGERS
SHOTOVER CONSERVATION WORK DAYS
SOUTH CHILTERN VOLUNTEER TASKS
SS MARY & JOHN CHURCHYARD RESTORATION PROJECT
WENDLEBURY WOODLAND PROJECT
WITNEY WOODLAND VOLUNTEERS
NOTICES
1. ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS (EFRA) SELECT COMMITTEE REPORT ON
BADGERS AND CATTLE TB - THE WILDLIFE TRUSTS' RESPONSE
Commenting on the report on badgers and cattle TB, Stephanie Hilborne, chief
executive for The Wildlife Trusts, said: "This report rightly highlights the
need for tighter controls on cattle movements and testing as the way to
combat this disease. Far from giving a green light to badger culling, the
Committee reinforces the view that badger culling could, in theory, be
effective if certain conditions were met - conditions that we know are
impossible to meet in practice."
The Wildlife Trusts accept bTB in cattle is a significant problem for
farming in the UK and that urgent action is required to combat the disease.
The Trusts particularly recognise the important role the livestock industry
can play in the environmentally-sensitive management of the countryside and
the serious disruption and anxiety caused to farmers experiencing a herd
breakdown.
The Wildlife Trusts are pleased the EFRA committee agrees the following
measures must be rigorously enforced to control bTB:
More frequent cattle testing, with more frequent and targeted combined use
of the tuberculin skin test and the gamma interferon test
The evaluation of post-movement cattle testing
Greater communication with farmers on the benefits of bio-security measures
The deployment of badger and cattle vaccines, when they become available
Continued work on the epidemiology of the disease.
However, The Wildlife Trusts believe the conditions for effective
badger-culling, suggested in the report, mean that it is impractical as a
control mechanism:
Culling should be over large areas (at least 265sq km, nearly the size of
the Isle of Wight)
For sustained periods of time (at least four years)
Be co-ordinated
Be carried out competently and efficiently
Be undertaken where there are natural boundaries to dispersal
The Independent Scientific Group, set up by Government to look at this
issue, concluded that because they could see no situation where the
conditions could be met, culling provides 'no meaningful contribution' and
is 'not cost effective' as a control measure for combating bovine
tuberculosis.
For further information please contact: Anna Guthrie, senior press officer
Tel: 01636 670075. Email: aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org
2. POWER INTO YOUR PROJECT SCHEME
Community groups and educational institutions in South Oxfordshire can apply
for an energy boost by taking advantage of an electrifying £10,000 fund set
up by npower's Didcot Power Stations. The
power stations are looking for community projects or events worthy to
sponsor in and around the Abingdon, Didcot, Wallingford and Wantage areas.
The criteria are:
Education - within the scope of national curriculum, the applications will
contribute towards education, particularly involving engineering, science,
environment and technology subjects.
Environment - priority will be given to projects that support and reinforce
npower's reputation for effective environmental management such as
development of areas to encourage sustainable living or energy-saving
ventures.
Youth and Community - consideration will be given to proposals that benefit
young people directly.
Arts and Sports - consideration will be given to events that make an active
contribution to the quality of life of the community.
Support will be concentrated on projects that provide an opportunity to
maximise the impact of the funding through hospitality events, publicity and
media relations as appropriate.
The scheme has been very successful over the last 5 years with Didcot Power
Station supporting over 80 local initiatives varying from wind turbines,
sensory and vegetable gardens for schools, to swimming days and equipment
for local amenities.
Please request more information and an application form by email
eddidcot@rwenpower.com
or contact Power into your Project Scheme, Didcot A Power Station, Didcot,
Oxon, OX11
7HA. Deadline for receiving applications is Friday 21st March 2008.
3. NORTHMOOR TRUST CLUMPS WILDLIFE APPEAL
Wittenham Clumps, right here on your doorstep, could soon become an
important home to some of our favourite and most precious wildlife, but we
need your support to make this happen.
The aim of the Wittenham Clumps Wildlife Appeal is to restore and recreate
37 hectares of wildlife-rich lowland meadow on and around the Wittenham
Clumps. This exciting project will involve sowing wildflower seeds,
increasing the beauty and diversity of the landscape and restoring habitats
for a number of our nationally threatened species such as the pipistrelle
bat, hornet robberfly and skylark. The land will come alive with hares
bounding and the song of skylark filling the air.
The Trust has already approached local authorities, businesses, grants and
trusts and raised the majority needed. We now urgently need to raise the
remaining £15,000 by 18th April 2008. Each and every donation can make a
real difference!
http://www.northmoortrust.co.uk/
4. OCV BOOKING TASKS FOR THE NEXT QUARTER
We are now booking Sunday tasks for the next quarter (Sun 6 Apr through to
Sun 29 Jun). We are delighted to have secured funding for our programme of
special 2-day training tasks. For the spring-summer programme we are looking
for potential fencing projects that would benefit from 2 days of work over a
weekend, led by our specialist trainer - Brian Williamson.
The types of projects we undertake include:
All types of fencing and step construction
Public rights of way management
Scrub clearance
Hedgelaying and planting
Pond construction and maintenance including dipping platforms
Watercourse and pond clearance/management
Woodland management including felling, planting, coppicing. (Handtools only)
Meadow and park maintenance
Dry stone walling
Footpath and gate construction
Otter holt construction
Each Sunday's task is led by an experienced volunteer, who is responsible
for liasing with the client and ensuring that the work is completed to the
required standard. The task leader also ensures that new volunteers
understand the purpose of the work and how to use the tools safely. We are
fully insured via our affiliation with BTCV.
If you would like to discuss your requirements, or arrange a free site visit
contact Gary Hillier,
Task Programmer, Oxford Conservation Volunteers, www.ocv.org.uk
5. CUTTLEBROOK NATURE RESERVE - VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
With several different habitats in one easy-to-stroll site, Cuttlebrook
Nature Reserve is a unique piece of "semi-wild" countryside just a few
minutes walk from the centre of Thame, Oxon. Meandering right through the
reserve is a tributary of the river Thame called the Cuttle brook, which
springs to life in the Chilterns. The whole area offers open river-meadow
views and a network of paths through about thirty acres of land.
Volunteering opportunities: We always welcome new volunteers - we meet twice
per month on 2nd Wednesday and 4th Sunday at the Scout Hut at 10.00am -
bring boots and gloves, we provide the rest.
Address: Off Southern Rd, Thame, Oxfordshire - adjacent to the recreation
ground, OX9 2EP
Website: www.cuttlebrook.org.uk
Contact: Telephone Thame Town council - One stop Shop on 01844 260495
6. IGNITE WOODFUEL COURSES AVAILABLE ACROSS THE UK
Are you interested in using a low-carbon, cost-effective heating fuel in
your community? The Ignite Woodfuel course could be for you.
Producing energy from woodfuel has both environmental and economic
advantages; not only is it a low-carbon source of fuel, but when a local
resources are used it results in local investment and employment and
minimises fuel transport costs.
Ignite courses will provide you with a grounding in the economics of
woodfuel supply, the technology available to produce woodfuel and the
systems that burn it.
Ignite is the UK's first and only formally accredited woodfuel training
course and it recently won a prestigious National Training Award. For
further information about the course and details of dates near you, see
http://www.northwoods.org.uk/c.php/home/wood_fuel/ignite, call 0845 226 2890or email ignite@ruraldevelopment.org.uk. (Community Action for Energy, News
Centre, 21 Feb 08).
7. NEW £10M GRANTS PROGRAMME TO HELP COMMUNITIES REDUCE THEIR CARBON
FOOTPRINT
An important new grant for those working to help their local community
become more energy efficient has been announced this month. A total of over
£10.1 million will enable communities across England to reduce their carbon
footprint.
The Community Sustainable Energy Programme (CSEP) is an open grants
programme run by BRE, an award partner of the Big Lottery Fund. Groups will
be able to apply for grants to install small-scale energy efficient
technology such as wind turbines or solar panels on sites including village
halls, visitor centres or schools. Funding to improve building insulation
will also be offered.
Grants will only be awarded to eligible not-for-profit community-based
organisations in England. Project development funding to look at the
feasibility of the above measures will also be available.
It is anticipated that the Community Sustainable Energy Programme will open
for applications in April 2008. For further information visit
www.communitysustainable.org.uk or email your contact details toinfo@communitysustainable.org.uk. (Community Action for Energy, News Centre,
21 Feb 08).
8. ECO INVENTIONS COMPETITION LAUNCHED
The UK is one of the world's leaders in 'eco-friendly innovations', it has
been revealed as a new competition is launched to inspire youngsters to come
up with new green ideas. The UK-IPO (UK Intellectual Property Office) found
that Britain - along with Japan, China, USA, Germany and Korea - is leading
the way in developing environmental inventions. The UK-IPO's new 'Cracking
Ideas 2008' competition is challenging primary school children nationwide to
create eco-friendly inventions, in order to encourage green thinking. The
scheme is being backed by the award-winning Aardman Animations, creator of
Wallace and Gromit. (Green Consumer Guide, Monday 03 March 2008)
9. OXFORDSHIRE GETS FIT FOR WILDLIFE
Racing for red kites and strolling for swans, hundreds of people from
Oxfordshire are set to get fit for wildlife during the RSPB's first
sponsored walk around Oxford on Sunday 30 March.
Walkers will be raising money for the charity's Oxfordshire team, which runs
the Otmoor nature reserve, Beckley, reintroduced red kites to the county and
works with the area's farmers.
Two circular routes of 5 and 8.5 miles start from Oxpens Meadow, next to the
Thames, staggered between 10.30am and 12pm and follow the canal,
universities, dreamy spires and green parks.
Registration is required via www.rspb.org.uk/sponsoredwalks or SharonBoardman on 01295 676456 - all participants get a goody bag on the day.
Every entrant giving a registration donation of £10 or more will receive a
cotton Fair Trade RSPB t-shirt.
Sharon Boardman, RSPB Fundraiser, said: 'Bring your family and friends along
for a relaxing stroll enjoying the historical sites of the city, its
wildlife and at the same time raising money for the society and improving
your health.'
10. WORK PLACEMENT REQUIRED
I require 3 months of work, in order to complete a mandatory work experience
placement for my HND in countryside conservation at the University of
Aberystwyth. I am a 19 year old student and have worked various roles in the
countryside throughout my life helping me to acquire some valuable skills.
These are as follows:-
Hedge laying.
Fully qualified NTPC and guilds Chainsaw operator, Felling and cross cutting
of small trees and chainsaw maintenance.
Completed ATV traing course awarded by Lantra.
6 months experience volunteering with the RSPB Wales, Ynys-hir reserve.
Assistant keeper on a Local shoot.
Fencing skills, Stock fencing/Post and rail.
Bridge building.
2 days drystone walling tutorial.
I have full UK driving licence, and vehicle. I am available within driving
distance of the Tetsworth/Thame area in the following months Mar-Aug.
Please contact Owain Devey at odge_bodge_splodge@hotmail.com
EVENTS
Can you walk, cycle, use public transport or share a lift to your chosen
event? Visit Sustrans at http://tinyurl.co.uk/s0dq, the Oxford Bus Companyat http://www.oxfordbus.co.uk/, Stagecoach Buses at
http://www.stagecoachbus.com/ or Oxfordshire County Council public transportinformation at http://tinyurl.co.uk/wt9
11. Thursday 6 March 6.30 pm
GREEN DRINKS AT THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE, 1 IFFLEY ROAD
We're in the upstairs bar this week, reserved just for us.
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rls=SNYD,SNYD:2004
-13,SNYD:en&um=1&q=cape+of+good+hope&near=Oxford&fb=1&view=text&latlng=51748
916,-1243124,8485966633211110439
AND... fellow organisers wanted!
I'd love to hear from anyone who is keen to help out with Green Drinks, from
the occasional "I'll be there to greet the early birds", to working on some
exciting special events.
Speak to me next Thursday, or send me an email (with contact number).
Michael Buick [greendrinksoxford@yahoo.co.uk]
12. Saturday 8 March
COUNTY WIDE SWAP SHOPS
The day for bumper countywide Swap Shops. Most are listed below but for full
information go to www.cagoxfordshire.org.uk
Abingdon, 10.00-12.00, Long Furlong Community Centre
Abingdon, 10.00-12.00, The Vale House Association, South Abingdon Children's
Centre
Ascot Village, (time and venue to be confirmed)
Buscot, 11.00 - 14.00, Village Hall
Didcot, 10.00-12.00, Fleet Meadow Community Centre,
Didcot 13.00-16.30, Community Centre, All Saints School
Dorchester on Thames, 13.30-16.00, Village Hall
Faringdon, 10.00-12.00, Corn Exchange
Oxford, * Barracks Lane Community Garden (off Cowley Rd)
* Bullingdon Community Centre (Headington)
* St Margaret's Institute, Polstead Rd, N.Oxford
* West Oxford Community Centre
Thame, 10.00-12.00, Town Hall
Wallingford, 10.00-12.00, Regal Centre
Wheatley, 9.30-12.00, The Merry Bells, 89 High St
Wolvercote, (time and venue to be confirmed)
Woodcote, 10.30-13.00, Village Hall
Swap shop on Saturday 1st March - Charlbury, Memorial Hall, Browns Lane
If you do not have a Swap Shop running in your area and you are inspired to
'give it a go'
then contact the CAG officers for further help.
Telephone: 07903037290. Email frances.buckel@resourcefutures.co.uk
More information on particular swap shops:
SUSTAINABLE WALLINGFORD SWAP SHOP AND COLLECTION DAY 10 am - 12 noon
At the Regal Centre.
Just about anything that can be re-used by someone else is welcome at a Swap
Shop, with the exception of electrical goods and clothes. Items collected
for recycling include old light bulbs and fluorescent tubes, batteries, tins
of paint (though these should be over one-third full), aluminium foil,
mobile phones, computers and tetrapaks.
There is more information on the Sustainable Wallingford website. Go to
www.sustainablewallingford.org and click the Swap Shop link on the HomePage.
LIVING LIGHTLY IN DORCHESTER DAY 1.30 pm - 4.30 pm
At Dorchester Village Hall.
Lots to do and see for all the family.
SWAP SHOP. Give away those things you no longer need or take away useful
things for free.
Lots of STALLS. Come and see the WILD WASTE SHOW, ENERGY BUSTERS, JUST
TRADING of Wallingford, RECYCLING and Waste Reduction INFO
Judge the Children's LOGO COMPETITION
"Lollipop" reusable cloth NAPPIES
RAFFLE, REFRESHMENTS, REFILL STATION - refill your washing up liquid and
more. LOTS OF INFO and ADVICE on how you can Live Lightly in Dorchester.
Alternative energy and energy saving products.
Call 01865 340286 for more info.
DIDCOT EARTHCARE SWAP SHOP 1.30 pm - 4.00 pm
At Ladygrove Community Centre, All Saints School, Tamar Way
What is a swap shop day?
A chance to get rid of things you don't want and pick up something you do.
NO money is going to pass hands
This is a simple way of stopping goods ending up in our land fill sites
There will also be recycling boxes for used batteries and printer cartridges
What can I give?
Household and garden items like books toys bikes tools kitchenware
bric-a-brac
Paint, pot plants, garden tools
In fact anything that is in good condition and you can carry
There will be a swap shop notice board for large and bulky items BUT...
No clothes or electrical items please
What can I take?
What you need and can use
Please bring along unwanted items between 1.30 and 2.30
If you don't have anything to bring just bring yourself and you might find
something you need!
13. Saturday 8 March 10 am - 3.30 pm
COMMUNITY TREE PLANTING EVENT
How about celebrating spring by getting outside and planting some trees? The
new Transition Oxford group is helping to organise an event on Saturday 8
March. People are needed to help for all or part of the day.
We are planting native food species; a Hazel coppice of 650 hazels, plus a
further 100 mixed gean (wild cherry), crab apple, etc. We're in partnership
with other groups including:
Forest of Oxford, which is working to create a "necklace of forest" around
Oxford,
Friends of Cutteslowe Park
Cutteslowe Primary school
Green Accountancy who have sponsored the event.
There are lots of trees, so we would love as much help as possible!
The event will be at Cutteslowe, N Oxford, on Oxford City Parks Dept land
north of the Ring Road, on the SE corner of Cutteslowe Park. Directions are
also on poster (attached) and on the Google map:
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=cutteslowe+park+oxford&i
e=UTF8&ll=51.789188,-1.253471&spn=0.023785,0.080338&z=14
It would be great if you could pass this on to interested friends or other
groups that you know. You can check out Transition Oxford on facebook, or
see www.transitiontowns.org for more general info. If you think you or yourgroup can come, could you send me a quick email (david@greenaccountancy.com)
so we get a sense of numbers - thank you.
14. Saturday 8 March any time between 10am and 4pm
SS MARY & JOHN CHURCHYARD PLANTING DAY
We will be plugging in plants to encourage butterflies and insects, such as
nectar plants and caterpillar food plants. All are welcome.
We will also be sharing news of our new 5 year Wildlife Management plan
Further information from Ruth Conway 01865 723085
15. Saturday 8 March 2 - 4 pm
HONEYBEES AND BEEKEEPING
A talk, followed by a demonstration by Martin Buckle. Martin is interested
in beeswax and its many uses, as well as the history of beekeeping. He will
show how to make bee skeps and basketry (did you know you can weave with
bramble?), as well as wax modelling and candle making. There will be an
opportunity to buy some of the bee products. Refreshments available.
Suitable for adults and children. Science Oxford, (the new home of The
Oxford Trust), 1-5 London Place (on St Clements next to the traffic lights
at the bottom of Headington Hill),. Free for members of OUWG and Oxford
Trust, non-members £3. This is an Oxford Urban Wildlife Group event
16. Sunday 9 March
FIELD OUTING TO THE FOREST OF DEAN, GLOUCESTER
An all day trip with the Oxford Ornithological Society
For more information please contact Steve Alley on 01608 659628
17. Wednesday 12 March
GREEN FEAST - EXPLORE THE MULTIPLE MEANINGS OF SUSTAINABLE FOOD
Food is a hot topic, with consumers advised to make ethical food choices,
like 'organic', 'fair trade' and 'rainforest friendly'. Explore the
different and sometimes conflicting meanings of 'sustainable food' with
leading experts in the field.
Speakers include:
Dr. Charlie Clutterbuck, Research Fellow, Dept of Food Policy, City
University London - 'Sustainable food' in context
Tim Wilson, Managing Director, Historic Futures - Sustainability Issues and
the Food Supply Chain
A panel discussion 'Peeling Away the Labels of Sustainable Food Branding',
will take place in the afternoon.
ALSO Wednesday 2 April
Greening the Greenhouse - Designing a Carbon Neutral Future
GREENING THE GREENHOUSE - DESIGNING A CARBON NEUTRAL FUTURE
Explore practical innovations in low-carbon design which promise to reduce
energy costs and remove the unwanted environmental costs of heated
greenhouses today.
Speakers include:
Dr Feije de Zwart, Plant Research International, Wageningen University, The
Netherlands - 'Greening the Greenhouse' - an overview
Professor Gareth Edwards-Jones, University of Bangor, Wales - The lifecycle
of horticultural food production - horticultural carbon emissions in context
Jenn Nelkin, Greenhouse Director, New York Sun Works, New York City - Urban
Agriculture and the 'Science Barge' Project
Both at the Living Rainforest, Hampstead Norreys (only just into Berkshire).
£45 each conference (£22.50 student concession). £70 for admission to both
conferences
For booking information and registration form see www.livingrainforest.org
For agenda details please email lisam@livingrainforest.org
18. Wednesday 12 March
CHEFS SOURCE THE BEST LOCAL FLAVOURS
Leading local chefs are on the hunt for the best ingredients in South
Oxfordshire to create top quality dishes. The chefs from well-known hotels,
pubs and restaurants are joining forces with the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire
& Milton Keynes and Oxfordshire (BBO) Food Group to put more local flavours
on their menus.
On Wednesday 12 March a Chefs Tour will be visiting food and drink producers
in South Oxfordshire. These include: Brookleas Fish Farm in East Hendred, Q
Gardens in Steventon, where they will also sample Hendred wines and Sugar
and Spice cakes, The Old Farmhouse Bakery in Steventon, and Challow Hill
Meats from East Challow, Wantage.
Tamara Schiopu, co-ordinator of the BBO Food Group says: "More customers
want to eat local food in their favourite restaurants and pubs, so we are
taking the chefs on a tour to seek out local ingredients on their doorstep
to help them create exciting new dishes using the best produce in season. It
is important for chefs to get to know the farmers that raised the beef with
loving care, who grew the carrots and carefully turned the cheeses to create
top quality produce. Those chefs are then able to continue that care when
they create their dishes."
The Chefs Tour is part of a larger project "Fresh Skills for Chefs" - a
training programme of masterclasses to encourage chefs to develop new dishes
using more local seasonal produce on their menus. To find out more about
other events, including Fresh Skills for Chefs, contact Tamara Schiopu on
01865 484116 or email localfood@brookes.ac.uk
19. Wednesday 12 March 7.30 pm
WYCHWOOD GARDENERS' QUESTION TIME
Ramsden Village Hall
We hope that you can join us for our very own Wychwood Gardeners' Question
time.
We have a panel of local gardeners ready to discuss gardening and how we
might adapt our practices in a changing climate.
Roddy Llewellyn (chair), Ian Gourlay from Bridewell Organic Gardens, Tim
Treacher from the Allotment Association, Rob Lane (Gardening Consultant).
We will be raffling some great prizes donated by local garden centres and
Daylesford Organic to raise money for two charities who provide respite for
ill children and their families.
Free Entry, no advance booking required.
No, this isn't the Radio 4 programme, but it will be just as good (probably
better).
Sofia Dyson, Wychwood Network Administrator
20. Wednesday 12 March 7.45 pm
ETHIOPIAN ENDEMICS
A talk by Timothy Hallchurch for Oxford Ornithological Society.
At Stratfield Brake Sports Pavillion just south of Kidlington off the A4260.
Access only from the northbound carriageway.
Admission free to members. Non-members: a donation would be appreciated.
All welcome.
21. Thursday 13 March
HOPE FOR PLANET EARTH CLIMATE CHANGE TOUR
"Next week we are in SW, and then the final week is in SE. The one in our
region is Newbury on 13th. The tour is just simply wonderful, has a very
high quality multimedia presentation from JRI, A Rocha and Tearfund, and
really is not to be missed!!! So get together with your friends, book your
tickets, fill up some cars and come down for the evening (we finish at 9.30
so it is not too late). Martin J. Hodson
Details at: http://www.hopeforplanetearth.moonfruit.com/
22. Friday 14 & Saturday 15 March 9 am - 6 pm
OUTDOOR FIRST AID
Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre, nr Didcot, Oxon
Trainer: React First
Cost: BBOWT Volunteers: free, Non-volunteers: contact us for cost
This new two-day course is intended for practical work party leaders,
Wildlife Watch leaders and appointed volunteers who have agreed to take on
the responsibility of being an appointed first aider for BBOWT. It will
include examining and assessing a situation, emergency life-support
techniques and symptoms of common conditions. This course is tailored to
managing incidents in the outdoors, so will involve outdoor practice.
Attendance at both days is compulsory to receive a first aid certificate,
which is valid for three years.
Didcot Parkway + (to Milton Park) + 1/4 mile
23. Saturday15 / Sunday16 March 10am - 4pm
LAMBING WEEKEND AT NORTHMOOR TRUST
At Hill Farm, Little Wittenham, near Wallingford. With the Northmoor Trust.
Join us for a fun time on the farm! Find out about sheep production and
maybe see a lamb being born. Lots of fun for all the family.
Adults £3, Children under 16 & Friends Free. Booking not required.
24. Saturday 15 March 8 - 11 pm
SAVE RADLEY LAKES QUIZ NIGHT
Radley Village Hall.
Tickets from Marjorie, tel 01235 530174
25. Monday 17 March 7.45 pm
FROM GREENFIELDS TO RAMSAR, THE STORY OF RUTLAND
For the Vale of White Horse RSPB group by Tim Appleton.
For many of us Rutland Water is synonymous with first British breeding
ospreys and the annual British Birdwatching Fair. However it has not always
been a reserve. Tim the reserve manager since its creation will describe the
reserves history, development and why it is now one of the most important UK
and international sites.
Indoor events are at held at The Civic Hall Didcot. Doors open at 7.00pm for
sales tables, displays and booking for trips. Contact:
chairman@rspb-vwh.org.uk
26. Wednesday 19 March 10.00 am - 4.30 pm
FINDING AND KEEPING VOLUNTEERS - A 'HANDS ON' WORKSHOP
Wantage Civic Hall (Segsbury Suite)
£20/£15. Trainer: Andrew Woodgate
Many voluntary organisations rely on volunteers to run projects and serve on
committees. But where can we find them? How can we keep them on board? What
do we need to do to get the best from them, and keep them happy and
committed? This tried and tested workshop takes a very practical approach to
helping you to work out how to recruit and manage your volunteers more
effectively.
To book/for more information phone Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary
Action on 01865 251946, or email admin@ocva.org.uk
27. Friday 21 March 10.30 am 01.00 pm
EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA
Scramble up to Shotover for another round of egg rolling on the hill. Bring
a painted hard boiled egg and enter it for all three competitions: Best
Painted Egg, Fastest Egg and Demolition Derby. Entry fee £1per egg. You can
register your egg at any time between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM during meanwhile
there will be displays and stalls by local wildlife groups and activities,
refreshments. Meet in the car park at Shotover Country Park, at top of Old
Road, Headington, Oxford. For details call Anthony 08000 521 455 the Rangers
or email countryside@oxford.gov.uk.
28. Saturday 22 / Sunday 23 March 10am - 4pm
LAMBING WEEKEND AT NORTHMOOR TRUST
At Hill Farm, Little Wittenham, near Wallingford. With the Northmoor Trust.
Join us for a fun time on the farm! Find out about sheep production and
maybe see a lamb being born. Lots of fun for all the family.
Adults £3, Children under 16 & Friends Free. Booking not required.
29. Saturday 22 March 10 am - 12.30 pm & 2 pm - 4.30 pm
NATURE TRAIL EASTER EGG HUNT
Warburg Nature Reserve, Oxon
Come and celebrate the launch of Warburg's new and improved Spring & Summer
Nature Detectives Trail, and get geared up for Easter with a chocolate egg
hunt. Trail is about 1 mile, with no stiles, but wear sturdy shoes. Picnic
area, for packed lunches. Admission: £1 per child, adults free. BOOKING
ESSENTIAL. Meet: Car park, Warburg Nature Reserve. SU 720 879 Contact:
Louise Print-Lyons 01491 642 001. Wheelchair accessible (1 tramper
available) Children welcome (all ages, if accompanied by adult) No dogs,
please
30. Saturday 22 March 10.30 am
DIVERSITY IN STONE GUIDED WALK - ASHBURY, OXFORDSHIRE
Chalk-block cottages with sarsen foundations and a fifteenth century manor
house. Not far away, sarsen stones can be seen in their original position
in the valley floor near Ashdown House.
Leader: Bill Horsfield of Oxfordshire Geology Trust.
Meet by the village cross at the junction of the Idstone Road, Chapel Road
and High Street. SU264851. For further information: email Oxfordshire
Geology Trust at contact@oxfordshiregt.org.
31. Saturday 29 March 10 am - 12.30 pm
FAIR TRADE COFFEE MORNING
Witney, Oxon
Enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and help us to raise funds for local
wildlife. All welcome to this coffee morning organised by BBOWT's Upper
Thames regional group. We will also be holding a street collection in
Witney! Admission: Free Meet: Methodist Church, High Street, Witney OX28
6HG. Contact: Shirley Jarvis 01865 371 297. Wheelchair accessible. Children
welcome
32. Saturday 29 March 2 - 5 pm
LOCAL BARN OWL SYNERGY SYMPOSIUM
At Sheepdrove Eco Conference Centre, Lambourn
An event to forge links for Barn Owl conservation between volunteer groups,
conservation bodies and public bodies around and beyond the Pang, Kennet and
Lambourn valleys - so that includes Oxfordshire!
Whatever you are into, botany, inverts, mammals, herpetofauna, birds, fish
or fungi, you're welcome to join the event. The Symposium will cover habitat
requirements, locating and putting up nest boxes and recording. Includes
farm walk and practical session.
Read more... > www.sheepdrove.com/370.htm
To book and for more information contact Pang, Kennet and Lambourn Valleys
Countryside Project FWAG Tel: 0118 930 5336 or email pang.kennet@fwag.org.uk
33. Thursday 3 April 10 am - 4 pm
EVENTS ACTIVITIES WORKSHOP
Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre, nr Didcot, Oxon
Trainers: Linda Knight & volunteers (BBOWT)
This practical workshop is aimed at volunteers who wish to get involved in
helping with events on their reserves. You will learn how to prepare and
carry out some of the most popular events activities, such as face painting,
paper making and pond dipping from experienced staff and volunteers. The day
will develop your confidence to provide activities to engage families and
give them a fun and educational experience. You will have the opportunity on
the day to try out your new skills.
Didcot Parkway + (to Milton Park) + 1/4 mile
Our courses are open to all members of the public, BBOWT members and
volunteers. For more information please contact the Volunteer Development
Officer on 01865 788309 or e-mail volunteering@bbowt.org.uk. Latest
information on course availability is available online at www.bbowt.org.uk
34. Monday 7 - Friday 11 April 10 am - 3 pm
CLUMPS CLUB
Themed days including Magic Masks, Tribal Day and Spring into Life!
£15 per child (aged 8 - 12)
With the Northmoor Trust at Hill Farm, Little Wittenham, near Wallingford.
Booking required. Please phone 01865 407792 or email
admin@northmoortrust.co.uk
to reserve your place.
35. Thursday 10 April 10 am - 4 pm
WORKING IN CONSERVATION
BBOWT Headquarters, The Lodge, Littlemore, Oxford
Trainers: Martyn Lane & Emily Sharp (BBOWT)
Conservation is a very popular area of work and getting started in paid
employment can be difficult. This practical course will introduce the sector
and major employers, cover the process of looking for work, applying for
jobs, interviews and securing employment. It is aimed at BBOWT volunteers
and others looking for the next step to working in conservation.
Oxford + (to Littlemore)
36. Saturday 12 April 10 am - 4 pm
HURDLE MAKING
Warburg Nature Reserve, nr Henley-on-Thames, Oxon
Trainer: Alistair Phillips
Woven hazel hurdles have a wide variety of uses, including holding
livestock, hut making and temporary fences. This practical workshop for
beginners will introduce the history and uses of hurdles and wattling as
well as the basic tools and techniques involved in making wattle hurdles.
Participants will complete their own hurdle during the day using local
materials.
Henley + (to Nettlebed) + 1 mile
37. Thursday 24 April 9.30am to 3.15pm
FUN WITH ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION WORKSHOP
At Hill End Residential and Field Studies Centre, Eynsham Road, Farmoor.
Cost £60.00(£5.00 reduction for forest schools, healthy schools &
eco-schools)
Lunch will be provided (please let us know of any special dietary
requirements).
Participants will be shown the many different approaches that can be used in
environmental education to make it fun and approachable for teacher and
pupils alike. The basics of 'Earth Education' and 'Environmental Role
Playing' and 'Eco-games' will be introduced. Activities will range from
simple warm up games to longer activities teaching more complex
environmental concepts. All of the skills taught can be undertaken in the
classroom or school grounds. Each participant will learn new skills and
take them back to share at school. Participants should bring outdoor
clothes and shoes.
Booking is essential. Please contact David Millin the Land Management
Officer. Tel.01865 863510 or E-mail david.millin@oxfordshire.gov.uk
38. Thursday 3 July
RESTORING THREATENED FARMLAND SPECIES AND WILDFLOWER HABITATS
Ref SW4. Facilitator: Flower Farms
Location: Wiltshire/West Berkshire border
After a brief indoor session, a wide range of wildflower habitats will be
visited on Flower Farms' 71-ha restored farm. The impact of floral diversity
on threatened birds, butterflies, other insects and bats will be discussed.
Habitat restoration is a priority of Environmental Stewardship. We will
examine the skills required to identify opportunities for creating
wildflower and insect-rich habitats such as species-rich hedges, woodland,
wildflower grasslands, created wetlands, "wetted " areas, chalk scrapes and
others. Geology, soil types and the capabilities of a JCB (or larger) will
be considered. For more information see www.wildflowerfarms.com
VACANCIES
39. BIOSCAN UK LIMITED - SENIOR ECOLOGISTS AND PROJECT MANAGERS - OXFORD
Salary negotiable
Ecologists with a proven track record in consultancy are required to assist
with an ever increasing workload at our new offices just outside Oxford. We
are looking for candidates with exceptional field survey, protected species
and site assessment skills allied to broad-ranging project experience and
the ability to respond to the service demands of a wide-ranging client base.
To fit the bill it is likely that you will already have at least three years
experience working within an ecological consultancy and are able to
demonstrate an ability to meet our exacting standards in botanical/habitat
survey, protected species-work, site assessment and written outputs. We also
expect a good working knowledge of wildlife legislation and the planning
system, excellent interpersonal skills and an eye for detail. A higher
degree, experience with other taxa (particularly invertebrates) and good IT
skills would be advantageous.
If you have all this, why move? Well, suitable candidates can expect to be
offered a generous salary, a high degree of autonomy, continuity of project
'ownership' from inception to completion, and room for growth within a
small, but highly-respected and long-established practice that is entering a
new period of dynamism. We are based in attractive rural surroundings close
to a vibrant University City.
Please apply in writing (CV and covering letter) to:
Personnel Manager, Bioscan UK Limited, The Old Parlour, Little Baldon Farm,
Little Baldon
Oxford OX44 9PU
Email: bioscan@bioscanuk.com
A shortlist of applicants will be invited for interview in March/April 2008.
Please note that the interview process includes species ID tests and a
report writing exercise.
40. KENT WILDLIFE TRUST - 3 POSTS
Kent Wildlife Trust is the county's leading nature conservation organisation
with a membership of 28,500 and an increasingly important voice in the
future of Kent's natural environment. Three new posts have been created to
meet the challenge of rebuilding Kent's biodiversity. They will play
critical roles within the Trust and provide real and exciting opportunities
for professional and personal development, as well as making a genuine and
lasting difference for wildlife.
Conservation Officer (Policy & Planning)
Salary range £21,806 - £25,872
You will take responsibility for the Trust's work on Local Development
Frameworks, major development proposals and other strategically important
development issues, where the opportunities are already in place to make
real gains for wildlife.
Closing date for applications - 20th March 2008
Living Landscapes Team Leader
Salary range £21,806 - £28,581
You will be responsible for taking forward the Trust's work on promoting and
delivering the restoration of biodiversity at the landscape-scale. The post
will have line management responsibilities and will involve co-ordination
with other Wildlife Trusts in the South East region.
Closing date for applications - 17th March 2008
Living Landscapes Project Officer
Salary range £19,096 - £23,161
You will be driving forward the delivery of landscape scale biodiversity
restoration projects within identified project areas, bringing together
stakeholders, co-ordinating and facilitating the work of project partners,
and working to make real change happen on the ground.
Closing date for applications - 17th March 2008
For full details and application form please contact:
Dot Hughes on 01622 662012. email: dot.hughes@kentwildlife.org.uk
visit: www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk
41. EIE PROJECT COORDINATOR
This post will combine general EIE (Environmental Information Exchange) work
with specific projects focusing on outreach, research, delivery of support,
and administrative aspects with a group of about 20 SMEs.
Responsibilities will include:
a) planning and carrying out a number of special projects (eg waste audits,
energy reviews, training workshops)
b) building up a network of contacts among local businesses and other
organisations
c) providing information for businesses and other organisations
d) organising events, and supporting participating organisations
e) arranging publicity concerning the EIE
f) administrative office support
You should have...
a) degree or equivalent experience in a relevant area (eg Environmental
Sciences)
b) experience working with businesses or equivalent organisations, and/or
local authorities
c) experience in developing projects
d) excellent communications skills (verbal, written and visual)
e) aptitude/ skill in presentation of information/data in an understandable
way to a variety of audiences
f) self motivation and the ability to work on your own initiative without
close supervision
Salary: £19,841, rising annually to £21,682
Contract: 12 months
Closing date for applications: Friday 7th March
For an application pack and further information, please see:
https://edm.brookes.ac.uk/hr/hr/vacancies
42. RESEARCH ASSISTANT, CHIMNEY MEADOWS (VOLUNTARY)
Location: Based at Chimney Meadows, nr Bampton, Oxon
Hours: 5 days a week (flexible), Late May-September.
Closing date: 18th March, 9am. Interviews: 1st April
Take this unique opportunity to get involved in an evidence based
conservation site, gain experience in an array of monitoring techniques,
whilst gaining an insight into experimental design & conservation
management. No specific monitoring experience necessary, as training will
be given. We are looking for someone from late May/early June to September.
Limited travel expenses provided to/from site.
For more information, contact Lindsay Watts on 01865 788309 or
lindsaywatts@bbowt.org.uk
43. COMMUNITY WILDLIFE TRAINEE, BUCKS
Location: Based out of BBOWT HQ in Littlemore, Oxford
Hours: 3-4 days a week, Mondays essential, for 6 months or a year.
Closing date: 17th March, 9am. Interviews: 27th March
Take this opportunity to join the team delivering a wide variety of
community and interpretation work, including supporting our wildlife
gardening programme. You will receive a significant amount of training to
further your job prospects in the sector.
For more information and to apply, contact Lindsay Watts on 01865 788309 or
lindsaywatts@bbowt.org.uk
44. VOLUNTEER POSTS WITH BBOWT
A. Voluntary Assistant surveyor
Location: Based out of our HQ in Littlemore, Oxford
Hours: 2-3 days a week, Mondays essential, for 6 months or a year.
Closing date: 25th March, 9am. Interviews: 31st March
Take this opportunity to assist us in carrying out regular surveys and
interpreting data so the health of our reserves can be monitored and results
fed back into management. You will need good species ID skills. Limited
travel expenses provided to/from work.
For more information, contact Lindsay Watts on 01865 788309 or
lindsaywatts@bbowt.org.uk
B. Voluntary Summer Warden, College Lake
Location: College Lake Nature Reserve and Environmental Education Centre, nr
Tring, Bucks
Hours: 4-5 days a week and some evening/ weekend work, ideally from mid-late
April for 6 months.
Closing date: 31st March, 9am. Interviews: 7th April
Enthusiastic volunteer required to help with wardening, practical
conservation, species monitoring & helping visitors enjoy the site for
mid-late April for 6 months.
For more information, contact Lindsay Watts on 01865 788309 or
lindsaywatts@bbowt.org.uk
45. PA TO REGIONAL DIRECTOR/OFFICE MANAGER
£16,000 - £18,000 pa. Banbury, Oxfordshire
We are looking for a skilled office manager and Director's PA to support and
be part of a dynamic team working to secure a healthy environment for birds
and other wildlife across the Midlands region. If you are excited by the
prospect of this important role within the regional office of a major UK
environmental charity, you could be the person we are looking for.
Please download an application pack from www.rspb.org.uk/vacancies
Closing date: 2 April 2008 Interview date: 17 April 2008
46. COTSWOLD WAY NATIONAL TRAIL OFFICER
£27,909 - £34,222
Fixed-term, 12 month contract (secondment considered)
The Cotswold Way is England's newest National Trail, linking Chipping
Campden and Bath, a World Heritage Site, passing through the stunning
countryside of the Cotswolds AONB for just over 100 miles.
This key role will lead the development and promotion of this unique route.
Initially for 12 months, subject to Natural England's review of National
Trails, you will be responsible for developing and implementing a strategic
plan for the Cotswold Way, building and developing partnerships, ensuring
the route meets National Trail standards and delivering a series of
projects. You will also lead on the marketing and promotion of the National
Trail.
You should have achieved a minimum relevant honours degree, which is
supported by substantial
appropriate experience including the implementation of rights of way
legislation. A natural organizer and enthusiastic team player, you will also
have excellent communication and people skills, and a good level of IT
skills.
For an informal discussion please contact Martin Lane or Mark Connelly, on
01451 862000.
Please also visit the Conservation Board's website www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
and the Cotswold Way National Trail's website
www.nationaltrail.co.uk/cotswold
If you are interested in this stimulating and rewarding role, please see our
recruitment service provider's website at www.cotswold.gov.uk for furtherinformation and how to apply.
Closing date: 14th March 2008. Interview date: 2nd April 2008.
47. OXFORDSHIRE RESERVES OFFICER
Salary: £18,100 per annum (pay award pending)
Full-time (35 hours per week)
Permanent Contract
Based at Trust HQ, Littlemore, Oxford
The Oxfordshire Reserves Officer will assist the Senior Reserves Manager
(Oxfordshire) in carrying out management of 25 nature reserves across the
county including lowland meadows, woodlands, chalk grasslands, wetlands and
ex-quarry sites. The responsibilities include the supervision and training
of volunteers, support of Volunteer Wardens and their teams involved in
estate work and biological surveys; care of and movement of Trust livestock;
maintenance of equipment, buildings and vehicles; contributing to the
development of management plans, government funding applications and
supervision of contractors on site.
We need an enthusiastic and practical person with a deep interest in
wildlife and habitat management. They will need to be cheerful in all
weathers, flexible in response to daily changing demands and be a keen
ambassador for the Trust. An ideal candidate would have at least 2 years
experience of applied nature conservation management; a demonstrable
knowledge of ecological principles, habitat management and assessment and
identification skills; knowledge of relevant health and safety practice;
livestock handling and administration experience; good interpersonal skills
and initiative; a willingness to work some evenings and weekends and a
current UK-valid driving licence.
For full details on how to apply for the positions, please download an
application pack from our website www.bbowt.org.uk, phone 01865 775476 ore-mail jobs@bbowt.org.uk. CVs will not be accepted. Please note that only
successful applicants will be notified.
The closing date for applications is 9.00am on Monday, 17 March. Interviews
will be held in our Oxford offices on Friday, 4 April.
48. WILD TROUT TRUST CONSERVATION OFFICERS X 3
Company: The Wild Trout Trust (WTT)
Location: Home-based
Salary: £25,000 - £30,000 FTE (see below)
Sector: Conservation
Application URL :
www.wildtrout.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=302&Itemid=208
Up to 3 full- and part-time positions available.
Salary £25,000 - £30,000 FTE (depending on post and experience) plus pension
contribution and mileage/office expenses. Holiday entitlement of 5
weeks/year FTE.
The Wild Trout Trust (WTT) was established in 1997 and is the leading
charity dedicated to the conservation of wild trout in Britain and Ireland
through protection and restoration of habitat.
WTT works in both in rural and urban catchments with a variety of
stakeholder groups including fishing clubs, riparian owners, community
groups, Wildlife and Rivers Trusts, the Environment Agency, Natural England,
the Loughs Agency and the National Trust.
As a result of the very successful advisory and practical support that we
offer, the demand for our work has increased dramatically in recent years.
We are therefore looking to fill up to three posts, initially for two years
but with the chance of extension subject to funding and performance, with
individuals who will take principal responsibility for the delivery of our
exciting conservation programme.
We are looking for self-starting individuals with significant conservation
and fisheries management experience, excellent communication skills and
proven ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders. You will be part
of a team each working from home, reporting to the Director and supported by
the WTTs paid and voluntary executive and our trustees.
One of the roles is a full time equivalent appointment to manage the Trout
in the Town Programme of urban river habitat improvement projects, funded by
the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation. The role would particularly suit someone
with a background in community conservation projects. This is a national
project, and the postholder can expect to travel to sites across the UK,
involving overnight stays. The salary for this post is £25,000 per annum.
The other two posts are to provide technical and practical support and
advice to fishery managers across England and Wales and to lead the Trusts
major conservation programmes. Depending on experience the salary for these
posts will be in the range of £25,000-£30,000 per annum FTE. At least one of
these posts will be available on a part time (4 day per week) basis, and we
welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible working patterns.
In addition to the delivery of conservation programmes, postholders will
also be expected to provide support at certain key events (including our own
Open Days, Demonstration Days and at WTTs stands at events such as the CLA
Game Fair).
Application forms (including equal opportunities policy and questionnaire)
for these roles are available by emailing us.
Applicants should send a signed and completed application form, a copy of
the Equal Opportunities Questionnaire and a short (one page) covering letter
to WTT, PO Box 120, Waterlooville, PO8 0WZ, or by email to
office@wildtrout.org. Please mark envelopes or the subject line to your
email with 'Job Application' and indicate whether you are applying for a
particular post or would like to be considered for all three posts.
Applications should reach us by 5pm on 10 March. Interviews will be held on
18 March in London. Deadline: 10 March 2008
Contact: office@wildtrout.org (EnvironmentJobs.co.uk)
REGULAR WORK PARTIES
ASTON ROWANT NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE VOLUNTEER GROUP
Aston Rowant NNR is one of the country's most important reserves. Renowned
for its Red Kites and rare wild flowers the reserve is primarily
species-rich chalk grassland and beech woodland, and needs a lot of regular
maintenance. We have a good network of pathways and 270 sheep on the reserve
which need checking daily.
Site management tasks are led by our experienced site managers and may
include scrub clearance, path maintenance, fencing, species protection,
interpretation and even livestock husbandry. We also need helpers for public
events!
Members of the group can do tasks according to their ability and will gain
valuable skills for career development or personal achievement as well as
enjoying the social side of volunteering!
When: Regular group meets every Monday but volunteers welcome Mon-Thur. From
9.00am - however long you want to stay, usually up until around 4.30pm
Where: Meet at Aston Rowant NNR Natural England Office. J5 M40 - follow
signs to A40 towards Stokenchurch. After turning onto the A40 take the first
right where you see a sign to "English Nature Office" and follow the track
up to the office on the left. If you reach signs to the reserve and
Christmas Common you have gone too far!
Please Bring: Drink and packed lunch. Hot drinks provided. Also bring warm,
wet weather clothing and sturdy footwear. Gloves and safety equipment
provided.
Experience: No experience necessary as training for all tasks is provided on
the day. The group ranges in experience, all you need is lots of enthusiasm!
Application: You will need to complete an application form when you start
volunteering, please contact us if you wish to join.
Expenses: Travel costs are covered.
Insurance: All volunteers over 15 years of age are covered by Natural
England insurance.
Contact: Jenny Crook / Anne Barr / Mick Venters on 01844 351833
Email: jenny.crook@naturalengland.org.uk
BARTON FIELDS:
There will be a Barton Fields work party on Friday at 1:30 pm,
meeting in Barton Lane, Abingdon (off Audlett Drive) opposite Sophos.
Our tasks will be removing tree guards.
Refreshments will be provided. Wellies advised.
If you are a new member and would like to join us please phone David
Guyoncourt on 01235 529151.
BBOWT WORK PARTIES :
FRIENDS OF CHIMNEY MEADOWS, NR BAMPTON
Feb: Thurs 14, 28; Sun 3, 24
Mar: Thurs 13, 27; Sun 2, 23
April: Thurs 10, 24; Sun 6, 20
10am - 4pm
Practical conservation and access work. The more the merrier and the faster
the progress! BOOKING ESSENTIAL, the group will now meet on Thursdays &
Sundays only. Meet: The BBOWT barn, within the hamlet of Chimney. The barn
is clearly signposted and is the first barn on your right as you drive into
the hamlet. Park beside the barn. SP 358 009 Contact: Kerry Lock 01367 870
904
CHINNOR HILL, Nr CHINNOR
Second Sunday of every month 10:30am
Come and join our friendly team and help out with a variety of practical
conservation tasks on this magnificent reserve. Enjoy spectacular views over
the Vale of Aylesbury as red kites pass overhead. Newcomers and Children
very welcome. Meet: 1 mile east of Chinnor. On Chinnor - Radnage road, take
first left to Bledlow Ridge. After 500m turn left into Hill Top Lane and
park in carpark. SP 766 002. Contact: Mike Turton 01844 351 443 or 07734 361
695
FRIENDS OF CS LEWIS, NR HEADINGTON
First Sunday of every month 9:30am - 4pm
The friends of CS Lewis Nature Reserve are working hard to create a
well-maintained, welcoming nature reserve. Join us to help create paths,
bridges, boardwalks and to keep the nature reserve litter free. Meet:
Reserve entrance on Lewis Close, Risinghurst. SP 560 065. Contact: David
Fordham 01865 400 676
DRY SANDFORD PIT, NR ABINGDON
First Sunday of every month 10am - 1pm
Varied conservation tasks in one of Oxfordshire's finest and most intriguing
reserves. Children Welcome Meet: Reserve car park in Cothill village, 100m
west of Honeybottom Lane/ Church Lane junction. SU 467 997. Contact:
Stephen Grigson 01865 390 540
HARTSLOCK, NR GORING-ON-THAMES
Second Sunday of every month 10am - 1pm
10 Feb, 9 Mar, 13 April
Join the team for a variety of light to moderate physical tasks, from orchid
monitoring to scrub clearance. All welcome, but please call ahead to book if
you are new. Meet: By the main gate of Hartslock Nature Reserve. SU 616 796.
Contact: Chris Raper 07775 673 467
SUTTON COURTENAY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTRE
Fourth Sunday of every month + every other Friday 10am - 3.30pm
Help us as we undertake a variety of practical tasks, including habitat
management and wildlife gardening. No experience is necessary but enthusiasm
is essential! Bring packed lunch if staying for whole session. Tea and
coffee will be provided. Meet: SCEEC car park, Sutton Courtenay Road,
Sutton Courtenay. SU 501 918. For Friday work party. Contact: Linda Knight
01235 862 024. For Sunday work party. Contact: Rod d'Ayala 01235 511 861
SUTTON COURTENAY ENV EDUC CENTRE WILDLIFE GARDENING
Every other Monday 10am - 2.30pm
A gardening group has been set up at SCEEC. The practical management will
help the conservation of wildflower meadows, and ponds and borders in a
garden situation. Tasks will include basic horticultural techniques,
composting and water conservation. Tea and coffee provided. Bring a packed
lunch if you are staying for the whole session. Contact: Linda Knight 01235
862 024
WHITECROSS GREEN WOOD, MURCOTT
Various Sundays 10am - 4pm
Calling all willing helpers and nature lovers! Join our friendly team to
help look after this beautiful ancient woodland. Meet: Whitecross Green Wood
car park, or find us throughout the day along the rides. SP 600 150.
Contact: Becky Woodell 08454 589 237
BTCV GREEN GYMS
Are based at Abingdon, Bicester, Chipping Norton, Sonning Common and
Wallingford.
BTCV Green Gym is a unique scheme to help people become physically and
mentally healthier by taking part in nature conservation activities to
improve their local environment. For more information, see the website
www.btcv.org/greengym. For all tasks wear sturdy boots and old clothes,bring waterproofs if wet.
ABINGDON GREEN GYM
9.30 am starts
Contact: Eleanor Dangerfield, Mob: 07931 363465 Home: 01235 531 857
eledanger@hotmail.com or, Margaret Notley, Mob: 07764 253674
m.notley@rl.ac.uk
Under 16s accompanied by an adult are welcome. We provide : All tools and
tea and coffee for a mid morning break.
BICESTER GREEN GYM
Contact: please ring BTCV on 01296 330033 before a project to let us know
you're coming.
Tuesday 26th Feb 9.30am - 12.30pm
Entrance to Bure Park on Primrose Drive (end of Betony Way)
Reed pulling
Continuing to clear reeds from the large balancing pond. Smelly, wet task.
Wellies needed!
CHIPPING NORTON GREEN GYM
Contact: please ring the BTCV office on 01296 330033 to let us know you're
coming.
WE PROVIDE All tools, training and refreshments.
MOBILE NO. ON DAY: 07740 899 729
Wednesday 5th March 10 am - 1 pm
Woodstock Library, Hensington Road
Woodstock Memorial. Garden Spring tidy
Removal of brambles, small trees and general tidy up of small wildlife area.
We will also construct a compost bin.
Toilets in town centre.
SONNING COMMON GREEN GYM
Full information and map references on www.greengym.org/sonningcommon
Saturday 8 March 9.30 - 12.30
HEDGELAYING AND HEDGE MANAGEMENT recreating 16th century layout at Oak Farm,
Harpsden Bottom. Leaders: Robin Howles and Mike Macleod 0118 972 3528
Thursday 13 March 9.30 - 12.30
FOOTPATH CLEARANCE (Peppard 1 and 2) in preparation for Sue Ryder charity
walk. Park 1/4 mile off Stoke Row Road via turning by former Grouse and
Claret PH. Leaders: Julia Booker and Robin Howles 0118 972 3528
WALLINGFORD GREEN GYM
Contact: Jennifer Brooker, Wallingford Green Gym co-ordinator
Tel: 01491 826157. Email: jembrooker@freenet.co.uk
Saturday 8th March 10 am - 1 pm
Gate at end of Mowbray Road, Didcot. SU523888
Mowbray Fields. Coppicing
HENLEY WILDLIFE GROUP WORK PARTIES:
(1) Mill Meadows
Wednesdays 5 Sept. 9.30 a.m. to 12.30
For more information please contact Sally Rankin on 01491 578633 e-mail:
s.rankin@btinternet.com
Meet in the Mill Lane car park.
(2) Chalk Bank Work Parties
For information please contact David Parry on 01491 572668 e-mail:
thedavidparry@yahoo.co.uk
Work parties are generally pleasant and sociable occasions. We hope you will
join us - all are welcome. Our work parties are conducted according to BTCV
guidelines.
NORTHMOOR TRUST FRIDAY WORK PARTY
This new group meets every Friday at 9.00am at Hill Farm, Little Wittenham.
Everyone is welcome to come and help out. Work is to be done on the nature
reserve at Little Wittenham and on Northmoor Trust managed sites in
Wallingford and Didcot.
Bring a drink and packed lunch and wear suitable outdoor clothing including
stout shoes/boots and bring waterproofs. All tools provided and training
given.
Please contact Alison Lee on 07982 059645 or alison.lee@northmoortrust.co.uk
for more info.
OXFORD CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS TASKS
See our website for details about the tasks, the group & links to info about
the sites: www.ocv.org.uk
DATE: Sunday 9 March
TASK: Scrub clearance
LOCATION: Aston Rowant, S.Oxon
We will be working for Natural England at this National Nature Reserve,
removing scrub to maintain the chalk grassland SSSI
OXFORD URBAN WILDLIFE GROUP
OUWG holds fortnightly Sunday work parties at Boundary Brook Nature Park.
Come and help Oxford Urban Wildlife Group to manage this thriving nature
park, which now has SLINC status. You can choose your task from a variety of
jobs. A warm welcome guaranteed. Please ring Alan for details on 07979 608
013.Access to the reserve is on the cycle track near Larkrise School,
Boundary Brook Road (off Iffley Road opposite Donnington Bridge Road
junction), Oxford.
Time: 10.00am - 1.00pm from April onwards.
If you would like to work on other Sundays or on a weekday, please contact
Alan.
Old clothes and stout footwear are advisable. Some gloves available but
bring your own if you wish. Stop a bit longer for a hot drink at the end of
the workparty.
OXFORD VOLUNTEER RANGERS
We meet at Brasenose Farm off the Eastern Bypass (call for directions) for
09:10 to allow loading of tools and equipment and travel time to the work
site. If you wish to travel straight to the site please be there by 09.30.
Please call the Volunteer Coordinator if you require further details on
07801625245 or the office on 01865 715 830
Thursday 20 March 9.30 - 15.00 hrs
Shotover Hill Mary Sadlers Field
Come and scrub bash!! We will be clearing some invasive scrub to allow
better access to our egg
rolling hill. This will be in preparation for the Easter Egg Rolling day the
following day
CONSERVATION WORK DAYS at SHOTOVER
2nd Sunday of each month.
We meet at 10am at Shotover Car Park, Old Road, Headington, Oxford
The work day finishes at 3pm but you don't have to stay till the end
Tools and gloves provided
Bring a drink and lunch
Everyone welcome (no dogs)
Contact: Ivan Wright 01865 874423 ivan@shotover-wildlife.fsnet.co.uk
SOUTH CHILTERN VOLUNTEER TASKS
First Saturday and third Wednesday each month Ewelme Watercress Beds. Near
Wallingford. SU641916. Bring Wellies. Details of tasks from Beryl Hunt
01491-872795 or Robert Watson 0118-9722737 (early evenings only).
Ss MARY & JOHN CHURCHYARD RESTORATION PROJECT
With our Breathing Places Award we hope to transform a desolate corner into
an area attractive to butterflies, moths and insects. So there is new work
to be done during our volunteer sessions: constructing and planting,
surveying and monitoring. We meet on Saturday afternoons 2-4pm. Some
associated training sessions will be arranged in the spring.
Contact: Ruth Conway 01865 723085
WENDLEBURY WOODLAND PROJECT
At Bowler's Copse, near Bicester.
Come and join us on Saturdays: January 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16.
We work from 10.00 using hand tools in a regenerating hazel copse.
Please bring your own gloves. Contact Mike Pearce on 01869 243967 for
details.
WITNEY WOODLAND VOLUNTEERS
We meet every Monday at 10 a.m. under the clock by Waitrose in Witney to do
a range of interesting and rewarding conservation projects in the Witney
area, finishing at midday when we go for a friendly lunch together.
If you'd like to come and join us please phone Juliet Curry on 01993 702202.
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