We maintain and care for over twenty-five nature reserves and three country parks spread out across County Durham. There is a rich variety of species and habitats; from grassland, wetland, moorland and woodland. Our focus is on maintaining and improving biodiversity as well as mitigating the effects of climate change. Our team of rangers, education officers, programme officers and our wonderful volunteers help us to achieve this. Please scroll down to see what volunteering opportunities we have on offer.
National trends have shown a steady decline in biodiversity and species abundance over the last five decades. This is likely due to increased pressures such as climate change, habitat loss, habitat fragmentation and population isolation. Now more than ever, we need to look after and protect our remaining species populations and habitats as well as promote nature recovery. For this we need your help!
- Genuine interest and passion for nature
- Means and ability to travel across the county dependent on where the role is situated
- Willingness to work as part of a team
All our opportunities represent a great way to make real change and develop key skills. We have a broad range of opportunities on offer:
- Become a volunteer ranger and learn skills such as woodland management, stone wall building, invasive species management and plant and animal ID skills
- Become a volunteer outdoor learning officer and take part in activities such as Forest School or Tales and Trails. Work with a range of different ages from toddlers to teens. Help teach children the wonders of the outdoors as well as the importance of our environment in our lives. Activities may include making potions, paintings, den building or story telling
- Become a guided walks steward or leader and show others what the county has to offer. With its scenic views, intriguing history and varied geology their are a huge variety of walks on offer
Our Opportunities
Join our fantastic Durham County Council Rangers in maintaining our sites for biodiversity and access. Learn skills such as woodland and meadow management, invasive plant species removal, fencing and more!