Fancy being a conservation volunteer in the Broads for a day?

The Broads Authority invites members of the public to get their hands dirty and try conservation volunteering at brand new Action Days in the Broads, happening this September and October.

Volunteer Action Days are taster events for people to come and try practical conservation work in the Broads.

Action Days offer a chance to learn about what is involved in looking after the precious Broads’ landscapes and ecosystems, such as at Reedham Marshes, at the How Hill National Nature Reserve, and at Decoy Carr woodland, near Acle.

If you want to get experience of conservation work but do not have the time for long-term volunteering, these Action Days are the perfect way to get a taster of what’s involved in managing the Broads.

September’s activities include taking a boat through the winding dykes of the River Ant to manage the vegetation on Reedham Marshes, so that it becomes great habitat for wildlife, such as insects and birds.

In October, you'll be carrying out scrub and small tree clearance at Decoy Carr, a site with many nature protection designations near Acle. 'Carr' means wet woodland, and it is what most of the Broads would eventually become if it was not managed through conservation work.

Volunteer Coordinator, Lottie Carlton, said of the events,

“We’d be happy to welcome members of the public to attend, even if you don't have any prior experience, you can just come along and do your bit for the environment.

"Action days can also help you find out whether becoming a long-term volunteer with us is something you'd like to do."

All training, safety information and suitable protective clothing will be provided but you'll need to bring waterproofs, warm clothing, and food and drink for the day.

To sign up, visit the EventBrite listings for September and October. Places are limited and pre-booking is essential. Volunteers must be aged 18 and over.

The Authority cannot accept people who turn up on the day without booking.

For other volunteering opportunities, for example with the Broads Authority’s Education Program and at Great Yarmouth Yacht Station, please see our website.