HabiMapping (c) Nick Turner
Volunteer with the HabiMap Programme
Our opportunities!
Volunteers are the heartbeat of the HabiMap Programme. With our surveying and monitoring efforts largely driven by their dedication, we depend on our incredible volunteers to map the county and process vital data. This is your opportunity to get involved and make a meaningful impact on nature's wellbeing in Gloucestershire! HabiMap offers two key Citizen Science roles:
HabiMappers (c) Nick Turner
Surveyor:
As a surveyor, you’ll play a crucial role in conducting habitat assessments across the county. This role is most active from April to September, and while you can work independently, many surveyors team up to share expertise and enjoy the collaborative experience.
Your main task is to accurately identify site habitats using your botanical skills. You’ll select one of our pre-agreed sites, coordinate with fellow HabiMappers and the landholder to arrange a visit, and then use our specialized survey app to map the habitats you encounter. Initially, you’ll perform a walkover to familiarize yourself with the site before diving into detailed habitat mapping.
If you’re not yet confident in your identification skills or prefer a group setting, you can join our blitz events organized by GWT at nature reserves or participate in volunteer-led surveys in your local area via our WhatsApp community groups. The habitat information collected by surveyors is essential for enhancing our maps and advancing our mission to improve nature connectivity throughout the county.
GWT Nature reserve results map (c) Cawan Andre
Data/GIS Volunteer:
This role is perfect for those who thrive in an office setting and prefer working behind the scenes. From September to December, you'll assist with GIS data processing, database management, and administrative tasks, often complementing the efforts of surveyors who wish to contribute further.
In this role, you’ll collaborate with the HabiMap Programme Officer, using computers at Robinswood Hill to prepare and process the habitat data collected earlier in the year. Your work is crucial for accurately mapping habitats and making informed strategic decisions to enhance wildlife conservation efforts.
HabiMappers (c) Nick Turner
"I feel empowered being part of a community whilst supporting my local wildlife"
HabiMap volunteer
HabiMap volunteers surveying at Siccaridge Wood Nature Reserve. (c) Nick Turner
Volunteer Benefits
By volunteering with us, you’ll not only be making a significant contribution to wildlife conservation in Gloucestershire but also enjoy a range of benefits:
Training: We provide comprehensive, free training and support for all our roles. This includes survey methodology using our adapted version of UK Hab v2, instructions on using the survey app, species identification, and health and safety training for surveyors. For Data/GIS volunteers, we provide detailed guidance on computer systems and data processing techniques.
Botanical ID Courses: Throughout the season, we offer a range of in-person course on topics such as grassland plant identification, hedgerow assessment, and ground flora evaluation. These free-of-charge courses, held at different GWT nature reserves, are a fantastic opportunity to sharpen your skills and network with fellow volunteers.
Community: HabiMapping is more than just volunteering; it’s about being part of a vibrant community. In addition to our training and ID events, we have active WhatsApp groups where you can seek for advice (like botanical ID help) or find local survey buddies. We also send monthly bulletins, hold regular online meetings, and organize seasonal catch-ups to answer questions, celebrate your work, and keep everyone connected.
GWT staff and citizen scientists surveying a meadow (c)Nick Turner 2021
Joining Requirements
- Be over 18 (if under 18, please visit this link for other opportunities)
- Be able to commit at least five days a year (including one day of training and four days of surveying)
- Have a recent smartphone or tablet (or be willing to buddy up with someone who does)
- Have an interest in botany
- Have a desire to learn
- Be able to travel to survey sites or GWT offices (a vehicle is helpful but not essential; we encourage lift-sharing to reduce environmental impact)
HabiMap volunteers surveying a nature reserve in Gloucestershire (c) Cawan Andre
Join Us!
We recruit new volunteers annually, with inductions typically held in February. If you’d like to register your interest for the next season, please fill out the form below.
Get Involved
Ready to make a difference? Click the links below to learn how you can join us in mapping and protecting Gloucestershire’s precious wildlife habitats!
