Residents of Rutland are invited to learn more about Wild Rutland’s upcoming volunteering opportunities at two free events this spring. Taking place on 21 and 25 March in the heart of our proposed site, the events will welcome everyone who is interested in nature and conservation to be part of an exciting new venture. The team behind Wild Rutland are passionate about creating opportunities for the local community and these events mark the first chance for the public to get involved.
Wild Rutland is a visionary new conservation-led attraction in Rutland that puts nature and adventure at its heart. The project, which is still under development with plans recently being submitted to Rutland County Council, aims to restore and enhance the heritage landscape by bringing back lost features and improving habitats for wildlife. While the wildlife-led attraction is still in its planning stages, the Wild Rutland team continues to be responsible for the land’s management and protection of wildlife. The site encompasses 1,000 acres of historic parkland, arable farmland and woodland, stretching from Burley Wood to the Oakham bypass.
Both events will run from 10am to 12.30pm. Both events will cover the same material so there is no need to attend both. As the first opportunity for potential volunteers to join Wild Rutland, the events will encompass a guided walk with an explanation of the project’s ecological plans and work which will be carried out. The Wild Rutland site is not normally accessible to the public so these events offer a rare opportunity to experience the quiet beauty of the ancient woodland and find out how you can play a role in its restoration and conservation.
During the events, people can meet the Wild Rutland team and hear more about the project and future volunteering experiences. Opportunities will initially include practical habitat restoration and creation across the woodland and wider landscape, surveying of many species, and even the chance to lead wildlife tours for those interested.
Hugh Vere Nicoll, CEO of Wild Rutland said: “Too many of us are beginning to feel disconnected from nature. A key part of Wild Rutland is helping people rediscover their love and appreciation of the natural world by creating opportunities for them to experience nature, learn more about it and feel empowered to support it.
“Wild Rutland is rooted in community and we want to bring people with us on the journey, celebrating Rutland’s natural heritage and working together to restore and conserve it for years to come. Rutland is a truly beautiful county, and it is inspiring to see how many people care deeply about protecting its wildlife. We look forward to meeting people who want to get involved with Wild Rutland whether it's through volunteering or joining our events.”
Throughout the year, Wild Rutland runs a programme of events to welcome people into nature. From children’s wildlife safaris to specialist wildlife photography tours, the events programme will provide the rare opportunity to experience the wild landscape of Rutland in a way which protects the thriving ecosystem of the site.
To join the volunteering day please email contact@wildrutland.com
