As my fourth and final
year of university approaches and it’s time to knuckle down with the paper
work, I’m taking the opportunity to reflect on my experiences of an interesting
summer volunteering.
As a third year student
of a four year degree, taking time to gain experience and beef up the CV was an
opportunity that many students nod their heads too.
At the start of summer I
didn’t have any volunteering options but I contacted the Eastern Moor Partnership
team who got back to me and explained what they could offer. I decided to
volunteer three days a week over the summer months.
Each day was different;
one day erecting a livestock fence, another slashing bracken. One thing that
was consistent was the tea and biscuit breaks! The skills and knowledge I
gained from my time on the Eastern Moors are invaluable. I learnt how
environmental charities work in terms of funding and the management they do. A
lot of the work was manual which involved using an array of digging, fencing
and cutting tools. Not to mention the selection of off-roading vehicles used. I
have also gained knowledge of native and invasive plant species.
I won’t forget the
characters I met working alongside like minded people, it was great fun.
Spending the summer out in a national park with spectacular views and maintaining
a worthwhile environment was good for the soul. If there are any students who
are looking to gain experience in working in countryside conservation then the
Eastern Moors would be a great place to start.
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