Outdoor enthusiasts wanted by Country Park (Sept 2013)

Outdoor enthusiasts wanted by Country Park (Sept 2013)

Lovers of the great outdoors are being invited to find out about a new Moors Valley Country Park conservation volunteer scheme at a special information session on Tuesday 15 October at 10am.

Moors Valley is a joint venture between East Dorset District Council and the Forestry Commission and the scheme is being launched as part of the Park’s 25th anniversary celebrations. Volunteers will work directly with the Park Rangers helping to protect rare and vulnerable habitats and wildlife.

Volunteers can get involved in a range of activities including restoring ponds to benefit the dragonfly population, removing scrub from heathland to help reptiles and ground nesting birds, and woodland work such as thinning or holly clearance, to encourage wildflowers, birds and invertebrates.

Andrew Norris of the Forestry Commission said, “The Rangers do a fantastic job maintaining the Park for the thousands of visitors we get each year as well as carrying out a wide range of wildlife conservation tasks. But there is always more that can be done to protect and improve habitats within the Park, and this is where the new volunteer scheme comes in.

“The main thing we are looking for in volunteers is enthusiasm and the ability to commit to a day or so a month. Conservation work around the Park is hugely important, but hopefully fun as well!

“We will supply all the necessary tools, materials and equipment for all tasks. There will also be an induction and training programme along with social events and some other benefits too.

“The information session is a chance to meet the team, have a coffee, ask questions and find out what it is all about and whether it’s for you.

Clare Gronow, East Dorset District Council’s Countryside Manager said, “Moors Valley is third most visited country park in the UK and we have recently won our third Green Flag award. This is a fantastic opportunity for people to get involved, help to keep this award-winning country park in tip-top condition and make the next 25 years even more successful.”

Anyone interested in going along to the information session should call the Rangers on 01425 470721 to confirm their attendance. Car parking will be free.

ENDS

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Editors notes:

A selection of high resolution images can be downloaded from the press images gallery.

For more detailed information contact:
Katie Davies at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest
Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Nr Ringwood BH24 2ET
Tel: 01425 470721 Email: ktdavies@christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk