roadside verge

Roadside Nature Reserve (RNR) volunteer warden

Play an important role in the project by becoming the ‘eyes and ears’ of a Roadside Nature Reserve (RNR) near you. Get in touch if you're interested in becoming a volunteer warden.

Kentwide - you need to be local to the RNR so get in touch and we can tell you if there is one near you that needs a volunteer warden.

Location: Kent Wide
  • Commitment: Any day

  • Frequency: Weekly

  • Location: Across Kent

The Roadside Nature Reserve (RNR) project was founded in 1994, is funded by Kent County Council (KCC) and has just under 150 RNRs throughout Kent. Most of these verges are managed by KCC, the ones that are safe to work on are managed by three volunteer groups that cover the county. Volunteer wardens who keep an eye on a verge local to them are also key to the project. These verges are fantastic wildlife corridors that help to connect habitats so that species can move through the landscape. They also provide protection for important species and habitats.

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Roadside nature reserve volunteers.

Why do we need you?

RNRs are very vulnerable to damage from utilities, overriding, fly tipping, etc. It is important to have people who are our 'eyes and ears'. We need volunteers who report any damage or planned works to the project officer, as well as having regular reports from them of the site's condition. We need to know if it has been cut at the right time and if the key species are doing well. All are vital for the project's success.

A typical day might include:

  • Litter picking
  • Survey of key species
  • Checking for damage (utilities, fly tipping, etc.)
  • Reporting back on timing of cuts undertaken

Experience and skills need for this role

  • No previous experience required
  • Enthusiastic
  • Willing to work alone
  • May be required to travel to remote sites
  • A passion for nature and wildlife

Benefits and training opportunities

  • Mental health benefits of being outside with nature
  • Gaining ID skills: full training will be given. You'll only be asked to do work you are comfortable with.
  • Gaining knowledge of a lesser know part of KWT's work
  • RNR newsletter updates and social events

Considerations

  • Reasonable expenses can be paid
  • The volunteer role is open to applicants over the age of 18