Practical Work Off Reserve (Peatland Volunteer)

Peatlands are unique habitats that store carbon from the atmosphere and support a range of specialist flora and fauna. Unfortunately, the majority of bogs across Northern Ireland have been negatively impacted due to conflicting practices. The RSPB are currently writing restoration plans for a number of sites across the country, and are delivering landscape-scale restoration measures to bring these valuable habitats back to favourable condition.

We need volunteers to help us with fieldwork, habitat management, and potentially community engagement. This will include:

• Cutting and clearing vegetation
• Completing habitat assessments
• Helping at events
• Collecting peat depths
• Recording species

We are a small and friendly team and are excited to be able to offer this opportunity to those who want to make a hands-on contribution to peatland restoration and develop their knowledge of peatland ecology! This is a one-off event based in the Antrim hills and is a chance to gain practical skills in scrub removal, teamwork and learn more about the unique species of blanket bog habitats. No prior experience is required for this event.

There is no commitment expected; if, afterwards, you feel like volunteering in peatland restoration is not for you then there is no pressure to register as a volunteer. On the other hand, if it is something you think you would like to help with regularly then this is the perfect opportunity to become more familiar with the tasks that you may be involved in. We will have more long-term volunteering opportunities in and around the Antrim Hills, Kilrea, Garvagh, Fivemiletown, and Bellaghy.

Please note: Working on peatlands does involve a reasonable amount of physical activity, and you must have the ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain and in unpredictable weather. This role is not suitable for under 18’s.