Community Wildlife Study Group
This group is made up of local people who have an interest in the wildlife found in and around the Forest. The group take part in training, events and learning sessions on a range of different wildlife subjects. Through increasing their knowledge, understanding and skills the group helped to monitor the changes to various species populations and habitats across the Foresters’ Forest programme.
From March 2022 the group is continuing as the 'Wildlife Study Group', directed by Forestry England and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.
What has the project delivered?
Community involvement is at the heart of this group, the aim is to have a self-sustaining study group that builds on the work of the Foresters' Forest Programme to create and maintain a comprehensive account of the Forest of Dean’s wildlife.
The group's work has included:
- Establishing an annual survey programme
- Developing and running a series of events and activities to enthuse local people
- Developing skills and knowledge of a wide range of wildlife subjects
- Confirming objectives and outcomes of different projects
- Establishing a baseline
- Identifying and employing appropriate methodologies
- Recruiting, training and supporting local people to carry out the surveys
- Collating and reporting on results
What can I get involved in?
The continuing 'Wildlife Study Group' is open to anyone who wants to join in and learn more about their local wildlife. Members are keen and enthusiastic locals rather than specialist volunteers (although training and support is provided). You don’t need to have any previous knowledge or experience to join in.
To find out more and to register as a volunteer please contact local volunteer co-ordinator Deb Cook: email volunteer@fvaf.org or telephone 01594 822073