Trainne
Current
London, United Kingdom
This qualification is an amazing way to learn the complete process of environmental conservation, starting with health and safety procedures, and the correct and safe way of handling and using tools. I have gained experience in a range of practical land management techniques on grassland and woodland habitats, undertaking mowing, hay cutting, tree felling, invasive species control etc. In addition to land management. I have undertaken site and task risk assessments and have to undertake site… Show more This qualification is an amazing way to learn the complete process of environmental conservation, starting with health and safety procedures, and the correct and safe way of handling and using tools. I have gained experience in a range of practical land management techniques on grassland and woodland habitats, undertaking mowing, hay cutting, tree felling, invasive species control etc. In addition to land management. I have undertaken site and task risk assessments and have to undertake site checks to ensure that H&S is maintained on the reserves. I have very good experience leading groups of volunteers by myself, including organizing and giving health and safety talks to volunteers, making sure that everyone is clear on what the tasks are and the safest way of completing these.The course involved one day a week learning the underpinning knowledge of conservation tasks. The other 4 days were spent outdoors in all weathers doing practical habitat management, much of which is physically demanding. This habitat management was inclusive of but not limited to: Woodland management: Felling invasive and unsafe trees, coppicing and hedge laying, using chainsaws and hand tools, and building dead hedges. Grassland management: Controlling scrub on chalk grassland using brush cutters, command mowers, and hay bailers, hand tools and pesticide plugs. Monitoring grazing animals e.g. contacting the owners to move sheep, or to inform them of any incidents, installing stock fencing and access paths. Wetland management: Reed cutting with scythes and other hand tools. Digging experimental ponds in dry reed bed to try to increase biodiversity.I now have the knowledge of the appropriate times of year to do these tasks and how to follow conservation management plans. Show less
