Wardens at Kimmeridge Bioblitz © Chris Fryatt
If you have an interest in the marine world, and want to help conserve and protect it, Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is offering an exciting opportunity to join a keen group of volunteer wardens at the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve at Kimmeridge Bay.
It is looking for local people, with time to offer on a regular basis who would like to do something valuable for their local wildlife. No expertise is required, as all volunteer marine wardens will be provided with a free training course to teach them the basic knowledge and skills necessary for the position.
The course will include topics such as: the identification of rockpool animals and seaweeds, marine non-native species, coastal wildflowers and carrying out seashore surveys. Recording strandline bats, spotting fluorescent sea anemones and glass-bottomed kayaking are just some of the things the wardens have been up to in 2013.
Volunteers will get the chance to work alongside Dorset Wildlife Trust staff and to help engage visitors in the conservation of Dorset’s wonderful marine wildlife, take part in surveys, research projects, join organised parties carrying out practical tasks and to spread the conservation message at local shows, schools and on-reserve events.
DWT Marine Awareness Officer, Julie Hatcher said, “We have an amazing team of volunteers at Kimmeridge Bay with a wide range of backgrounds and ages. What they all have in common is a passion for wildlife and a desire to help ensure its well-being. We’re a friendly and fun bunch of people to work with and are looking forward to welcoming some new faces to the marine centre in the New Year.”
An open session at the Fine Foundation Marine Centre, Kimmeridge Bay will be held on Saturday 25th January 2014, where you can come and meet the staff and volunteer wardens, and find out more about what they do. There are a limited number of vacancies, so if you think you’re interested in joining the team, then contact Julie Hatcher on 01929 481044 or email kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.co.uk. For more information about the position, visit: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/jobs
