Get active and learn new skills as a conservation volunteer in Torridge

Conservation projects on Northam Burrows and in nearby nature reserves are already in full swing as the new year begins – and volunteers are very welcome!

Over the next few months, the Torridge rangers will be looking to carry out a whole range of tasks aimed at looking after these green spaces, improving wildlife and nature habitats and making these more accessible for both residents and visitors.

At the same time, the rangers will also be busy organising and running a series of fun and educational activities to encourage families to get outdoors during the school holidays.

Volunteers who donate their time to help out are vital to these projects and Torridge District Council is now appealing for anyone who would like to take part to get in touch.

Previous participants have commented on how taking part has been a great way to get fit, while also learning new skills and also a way to experience some of the wonderful nature reserves dotted across the district.

In a similar vein, the experience days are designed to teach locals and holidaymakers about the wildlife to be discovered on the area’s beaches, in the mud and rock pools.

The events are designed for all abilities and allow people to participate at their own pace while feeling good about making a positive contribution to the environment.

The current events schedule can be found on the council’s Northam Burrows web pages but includes the following opportunities from this Wednesday (January 17):

Conservation events in Torridge

Wednesday, January 17: 10am – 3pm Bramble clearance around Middleton meadow.

Sunday, January 28: 10am – 12pm Litter Pick at Westward Ho!, meet on slipway.

Wednesday, January 31: 10am – 3pm Meadow cuts at Kenwith Valley nature reserve.

Friday, February 2: 1.30pm – 3.30pm Harvest Mouse Survey Northam Burrows Country Park.

Wednesday, February 21: 10am – 3pm – Reed Bed management at Kenwith Valley nature reserve.

Sunday, February 25: 10am – 12pm – Beach clean at Westward Ho! meet on slipway.

Wednesday, March 13: 10am – 3pm – Footpath improvements Northam Burrows Country Park.

Wednesday, March 20: 10am – 3pm – Dune fencing Northam Burrows Country Park.

Sunday, March 24: 10am – 12pm – Beach clean Westward Ho! meet on slipway.

All events are free to attend, with no experience necessary and tools provided for the various tasks.

However, pre-booking is essential, partly so that people can be contacted if there are any changes as a result of weather and ground conditions. Participants are also advised to bring suitable clothing, footwear and a packed lunch and refreshments.

Family February half term events

The beach cleans above are great for all the family but additional events during the half term include:

Tuesday, February 13: 2pm – 4pm – Mud dipping, Northam Burrows Country Park, meet Greysands car park.

Thursday, February 15: 2pm – 4pm – Rockpool Ramble Northam Burrows Country Park, meet near Westward Ho! slipway.

The rangers particularly need help with the tasks at Kenwith Valley nature reserve in Bideford.

The lake and surrounding area are one of Torridge’s hidden gems so taking part in the planned events will be an opportunity to learn more about this less well known location and its abundant wildlife.

People are welcome to attend for part of the sessions if they cannot attend for the full day.

You can email northam.burrows@torridge.gov.uk or telephone 01237 479708 to book a place or find out more. Or check out the council's website.