Dorset Conservation - December Tasks

SAT 1st / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Arne Nature Reserve, Purbeck / Task TBC
RSPB - Arne
Training and equipment provided. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham, Dorset BH20 5BJ. Grid Ref: SY972878 [MAP] Contact the Arne Nature Reserve office on 01929 553360 or e-mail arne@rspb.org.uk

SAT 1st / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sandford Heath, Nr Wareham / Scrub Management Mega Task
Natural England Green Team
Continue to open the views out across the open heath by clearing the pine scrub. The weekend is organised by Julia and will be based in a local village hall. Please ring her for details on 07842 120585. Meet at 10:00 AM at Station Road, Holton Heath (heading towards Wareham on the A351, turn left at the traffic lights and after about 400 yards, park on the right-hand side of the road alongside the black steel pallisade fencing jusr before the houses. Grid Ref: SY943906 [MAP] nearest post code BH16 6JT.

SUN 2nd / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Arne Nature Reserve, Purbeck / Task TBC
RSPB - Arne
Training and equipment provided. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham, Dorset BH20 5BJ. Grid Ref: SY972878 [MAP] Contact the Arne Nature Reserve office on 01929 553360 or e-mail arne@rspb.org.uk

SUN 2nd / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sandford Heath, Nr Wareham / Pine Scrub Clearance
Natural England Green Team
A new compartment beckons. We will be working at the back of the Station Road houses to create a mirror image of the compound block. Not as much rhododendron here! Meet at 10:00 AM at Station Road, Holton Heath (heading towards Wareham on the A351, turn left at the traffic lights and after about 400 yards, park on the right-hand side of the road alongside the black steel pallisade fencing jusr before the houses. Grid Ref: SY943906 [MAP] nearest post code BH16 6JT. Contact Richard Frost Tel: 01202 883084. Mob: 07756 864796.

SUN 2nd / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location TBC / Task TBC
Dorset Wildlife Trust - East Dorset Group
Tasks mainly involve work on Sopley Common and on Troublefield (if conditions permit). Tasks include scrub clearance, pine and sycamore control, path clearance etc. Meet at the Ramsdown car park (Grid Ref: SZ130972) at 10:00 AM. [MAP] Contact Jon Crewe Tel: 01202 549377 Mob: 07733 123651.

SUN 2nd / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Winfrith Heath/ Scrub Clearance & Coppicing
Dorset Wildlife Trust - South Dorset & Isle of Purbeck Group
For further details contact Bernard Franklin Tel: 01305 786201 Mob: 07711 304412 (after 6pm).

SUN 2nd / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Ham Common, Poole / Scrub Clearance
Borough of Poole
Friends of Ham Common work party. Come and help to improve the habitat on the North side of the lake. Park at the Viewpoint car park Grid Ref: SY977908 [MAP] nearest post code BH15 4LZ. Walk to the access track over-looking the north side of the lake - keep an eye out for on-site directions. Task leader: Martin Whitchurch. Contact the Borough of Poole on Tel: 01202 265265 or e-mail: leisure@poole.gov.uk.

SUN 2nd / 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Alners Gorse / Brown Hairstreak Butterfly Egg Survey
Butterfly Conservation
Brown Hairstreak eggs are quite easy to spot once you know what to look for and are more easily counted than the elusive butterflies which spend most of their lives in the treetops. This butterfly is very rare in Dorset, so this is an important exercise. Training will be given. Wear waterproof footwear and bring a packed lunch if attending all day. Park on the verge well to the west of the 30 mph and Hazelbury Bryan village signs and meet at the reserve entrance at Grid Ref ST736100 [MAP], nearest post code DT10 2AH. Contact Brian Dicker on Tel: 01963 32453.

SUN 2nd / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Sandford Heath, Nr Wareham / Scrub Clearance
Sandford Conservation Group
Scrub bash Mega-Task. Tools and health and safety talk provided. Meet at the lay-by on the A351 opposite Sandford Middle School, Grid Ref: SY934901 [MAP] nearest post code BH20 7QJ. For more details call the Urban Heaths Partnership west team on Mob: 07900 137882.

SUN 2nd / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Stour Valley LNR, Bournemouth / Scrub Clearance
Bournemouth Borough Council
Meet on the tarmac track at Kingfisher. Task led by Gillie. Enquiries to Anna-Marie or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

MON 3rd / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

TUE 4th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monkswell Green, Christchurch / Scrub Clearance
Christchurch Borough Council
Starting From Scratch - Monkswell Green Bramble cutting hand in glove with other works that will begin to restore grass and fenland habitat close to Stanpit Marsh. Under 16’s please bring an adult. As usual, remember to wear old clothes and bring a packed lunch if you’re staying the day. We provide hot and cold drinks and other refreshments. Meet Stanpit Marsh Information Caravan, Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve, Grid Ref: SZ169921 [MAP] nearest post code BH23 3DX. Contact Christchurch Countryside Service on 01425 272479 or e-mail countryside.service@christchurch.gov.uk

TUE 4th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

WED 5th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Durlston Country Park, Swanage / Various
Dorset County Council & Friends of Durlston
Join this friendly volunteer group to carry out practical conservation work to conserve and enhance this very special place. Meet at the visitor Centre, Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL Grid Ref: SZ031773 [MAP]. For more details, contact Ali Tuckey, Tel: 01929 424443 or visit www.durlston.co.uk.

WED 5th / 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Garston Wood Nature Reserve / Task TBC
RSPB - Arne
Training and equipment provided. Meet at the Garston Wood reserve car park. Grid Ref: SU003194. Contact Jack Edwards at the Arne Nature Reserve office on 01929 553360. [MAP]

WED 5th / 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Great Ovens Heath, Nr Wareham / Fencing
HCT
Meet at Filleul Road which is off Miles Avenue, which is off the A351. Grid Ref: SY929900 [ MAP] nearest post code BH20 7AP. Joint task with BTCV. Contact Graham Stanley on Tel: 01202 391319 or Mob: 07810 770569.

WED 5th / 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Great Ovens Heath, Nr Wareham / Fencing
BTCV
Joint task with HCT. Meet at Filleul Road which is off Miles Avenue, which is off the A351. Grid Ref: SY929900 [ MAP] nearest post code BH20 7AP. Alternatively you can catch the BTCV minibus from Dorchester South Train Station, pickup at 9:30 AM. Contact Kirsty Bourton Mob: 07740 899722 or James 07764 655686, e-mail: dorset@btcv.org.uk or office Tel: 01202 632101.

WED 5th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Studland, Purbeck / Various
National Trust - Purbeck Estate Volunteers
Tasks generally include; scrub clearance (gorse, pine and thorn depending on which part of the estate we’re on), hedgelaying, coppicing and drystone walling. Meet at the Purbeck Estate office, Middle Beach, Studland, Grid Reference: SZ036828 [MAP] nearest post code BH19 3AX. Contact the Purbeck Estate Office on 01929 450259.

WED 5th / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

WED 5th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

THU 6th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Upton Heath, Poole / Habitat Management
Dorset Wildlife Trust - Urban Wildlife Volunteers
Carrying out tasks involving general heathland management such as pine control, path maintenance, scrub clearance, etc. Gloves, tools and baked potatoes supplied. Meet at DWT Urban Wildlife Centre, Beacon Hill Road, Corfe Mullen. For further information contact the DWT Urban Wildlife Centre on Tel: 01202 692033.

THU 6th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Durlston Country Park, Swanage / Various
Dorset County Council & Friends of Durlston Castle
Join this friendly volunteer group to carry out practical work to help with the restoration of historic Durlston Castle. The Castle is currently being re-developed as an environmental visitor centre for Durlston and as the main visitor centre for the Jurassic Coast. Volunteers are involved in work in and around the castle as part of the re-development. Meet at the visitor Centre, Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL Grid Ref: SZ031773 [MAP]. For more details, contact Ali Tuckey, Tel: 01929 424443 or visit www.durlston.co.uk.

THU 6th / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

THU 6th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Lakewood, Christchurch / Scrub Clearance
Christchurch Borough Council
Lakeshift - Lakewood Annual task to improve this small urban site. General cutting back of vegetation. Under 16’s please bring an adult. As usual, remember to wear old clothes and bring a packed lunch if you’re staying the day. We provide hot and cold drinks and other refreshments. Meet junction of Thornfield Drive and Lakewood Road, Highcliffe, Grid Ref: SZ205941 [MAP] nearest post code BH23 5NU. Contact Christchurch Countryside Service on 01425 272479 or e-mail countryside.service@christchurch.gov.uk

THU 6th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

FRI 7th / 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Dorset County Council & Island Conservation Volunteers
Portland / Task TBC
Everybody welcome to come for all or just part of the day. Tools and gloves provided. Contact 01305 823789 or 07973 907760 for further details.

FRI 7th / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

FRI 7th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

SAT 8th / 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM (arrive any time between)
Arne Nature Reserve, Wareham / Pull a pine for Christmas at Arne
RSPB
Why not come to Arne and earn yourself your own Christmas tree this year. Join us for a couple of hours helping remove problem pine seedlings, get to see what goes on at the reserve and be rewarded with a sustainable tree. Meet at the RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham, Dorset BH20 5BJ. Grid Ref: SY972878 [MAP] where a member of staff will direct you to the work site. Contact the Arne Nature Reserve office on 01929 553360 or e-mail arne@rspb.org.uk

SAT 8th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location TBC / Task TBC
Dorset Wildlife Trust - North Dorset Group
For further details contact Lucie Cowles on 01202 468622 or 07967 597571.

SAT 8th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Studland, Purbeck / Coppicing
National Trust - Purbeck Estate Volunteers
Cutting hazel at Studland so that it can re-grow. Task leader: Paul. Meet at the Purbeck Estate office, Middle Beach, Studland, Grid Reference: SZ036828 [MAP] nearest post code BH19 3AX. Contact the Purbeck Estate Office on 01929 450259.

SAT 8th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Canford Heath NR, Poole / Scrub Clearance
Borough of Poole
Controlling the spread of pines and birch is important, so come and help cut some down on Canford Heath Nature Reserve to keep the heath open. Task leader: Karen Pearce. Meet near gate 12 (no parking at Crematorium) Grid Ref: SZ017961 [MAP] Contact the Borough of Poole on Tel: 01202 265265 or e-mail: leisure@poole.gov.uk.

SUN 9th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Studland, Purbeck / Coppicing
National Trust - Purbeck Estate Volunteers
Cutting hazel at Studland so that it can re-grow. Task leader: Paul. Meet at the Purbeck Estate office, Middle Beach, Studland, Grid Reference: SZ036828 [MAP] nearest post code BH19 3AX. Contact the Purbeck Estate Office on 01929 450259.

SUN 9th / 1:00 PM
Worbarrow Bay, Purbeck / Beach Clean & Litter Survey
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Help with the quarterly beach litter survey and tidy up. All equipment provided. Follow the signs from the car park at Tyneham. For further information contact the Fine Foundation Marine Centre on 01929 481044.

SUN 9th / 1:00 PM
Kimmeridge / Beach Clean
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Join us for our pre-Christmas clean up followed by hot drinks and mince pies. Meet at the Fine Foundation Marine Centre, Kimmeridge, Grid Ref: SY908787 [MAP] nearest post code BH20 5PF.

SUN 9th / 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lulworth Cove / Beach Clean & Litter Survey
Lulworth Estate
Meet at the cove slipway next to the beach cafe, Grid Ref: SY823799 [MAP] nearest post code BH20 5RH. For more information contact the Heritage Centre on 01929 400587.

SUN 9th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park / Family Christmas Tree Pull a Pine Event
RSPB
Please remember to wear sensible tough work clothing and bring old rainwear if appropriate. You will need tea/drinks (cakes and biscuits provided) and a packed lunch. We will have a bonfire to burn all the cut material and to stay warm during breaks, if we have any cold weather at all this winter! Meet at the Boundary Lane car park, Grid Ref: SU126022 [MAP] nearest post code BH24 2BP. Contact Toby Branston Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

SUN 9th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Brownsea Island, Poole / Rhododendron Clearance
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Catch the boat from Sandbanks - please ring for timings. Contact Richard Proctor on Tel: 01202 693039.

SUN 9th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Canford Heath NR, Poole / Scrub Clearance
Borough of Poole
Help improve Canford Heath Nature reserve by clearing out rhododendron and invading scrub. Meet North of Steeple Close, up Longfleet Drive, before you reach gate 15 on Longfleet Drive, Grid Ref: SZ020956 [MAP] nearest post code BH21 3BQ. There is some parking in Steeple Close. Task leader: Jez Martin. Contact the Borough of Poole on Tel: 01202 265265 or e-mail: leisure@poole.gov.uk.

SUN 9th / 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Alners Gorse / Habitat Management
Butterfly Conservation
Conservation tasks including tree removal, cutting gorse and scrub are ongoing at the BC reserve. Take a Christmas Tree home with you. Park on the verge well to the west of the 30 mph and Hazelbury Bryan village signs and meet at the reserve entrance at Grid Ref ST736100 [MAP], nearest post code DT10 2AH. Contact Nigel Spring on 07981 776767 or 01963 23559.

SUN 9th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Turbary Common, Bournemouth / Scrub Clearance
Bournemouth Borough Council
Task led by Anna-Marie. Meet by the notice board at the main entrance on Turbary Park Avenue, Grid Ref: SZ058950 [MAP] nearest post code BH11 8HJ. Contact Anna-Marie Ford on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

MON 10th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

TUE 11th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Steamer Point LNR, Christchurch / Japanese Knotweed Removal
Christchurch Borough Council
A Knotty Problem - Digging of Japanese Knotweed roots from the cliffs close to Steamer Point. Meet at the Steamer Point Information Centre, end of Seaway Avenue, Friars Cliff. Grid Ref: SZ197929 [MAP] Nearest post code BH23 4JQ. Contact Christchurch Countryside Service on 01425 272479 or e-mail countryside.service@christchurch.gov.uk

TUE 11th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

WED 12th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Durlston Country Park, Swanage / Various
Dorset County Council & Friends of Durlston
Join this friendly volunteer group to carry out practical conservation work to conserve and enhance this very special place. Meet at the visitor Centre, Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL Grid Ref: SZ031773 [MAP]. For more details, contact Ali Tuckey, Tel: 01929 424443 or visit www.durlston.co.uk.

WED 12th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Lorton Meadows, Weymouth / Task TBC
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Tasks involve scrub clearance, path and gate clearance and fencing repairs. Tools, gloves and drinks supplied. Meet at the Lorton Meadows Wildlife Centre at 10:00 AM. (Grid Ref: SY673826). Contact Sam Dallimore on 01305 816546 or e-mail sdallimore@dorsetwildlife.co.uk. [MAP]

WED 12th / Time TBC
Creech Heath, Nr Wareham / Collect Your Own Christmas Tree
HCT
For further details contact Graham Stanley, Tel: 01202 391319, Fax: 01202 392785 Mob: 07810 770569. e-mail: graham.stanley@herpconstrust.org.uk.

WED 12th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Studland, Purbeck / Various
National Trust - Purbeck Estate Volunteers
Tasks generally include; scrub clearance (gorse, pine and thorn depending on which part of the estate we’re on), hedgelaying, coppicing and drystone walling. Meet at the Purbeck Estate office, Middle Beach, Studland, Grid Reference: SZ036828 [MAP] nearest post code BH19 3AX. Contact the Purbeck Estate Office on 01929 450259.

WED 12th / 10:00 AM
Duncliffe Wood, Shaftesbury / Various Tasks
Woodland Trust
Everybody is welcome, however children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. The event is also suitable for dogs but they must be controlled at all times. Please ensure you wear suitable clothes and footwear. Meet at Grid Ref: ST826222 [MAP] nearest post code SP7 0AA. Car parking is available at the site. Contact Ian Hounsell, Tel: 01747 841089.

WED 12th / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

WED 12th / 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Tout Quarry, Portland / Scrub Clearance
BTCV
Park in Tradecroft Industrial Estate, reached by turning right at the junction of Easton Lane (A354) and Wide Street, then going 600 yds before turning right into the Industrial Estate. Go another 100yds, turn right again and follow an unmetalled track for 100yds bearing right to the public car park, Grid Ref: SY684724 [MAP] nearest post code DT5 2LN. Alternatively you can catch the BTCV minibus from Dorchester South Train Station, pickup at 9:30 AM. Contact Kirsty Bourton Mob: 07740 899722 or James 07764 655686, e-mail: dorset@btcv.org.uk or office Tel: 01202 632101.

WED 12th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

THU 13th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Dewlands Common North / Scrub Clearance
East Dorset District Council
More scrub clearance! Dewlands Common local nature reserve, a 12 hectare Heathland site on the western edge of Verwood, is not only an important remnant of the once expansive range of heaths stretching across South and East Dorset, but has also played a vital role in the history of the local town of Verwood. The meeting point is still to be confirmed. Everyone over the age of 16 welcom. Young people between the age of 8 and 15 are welcome to come along but they must be accompanied and supervised on the task by an adult. You need no special tools or training, just a lunch bag and enthusiasm! For more information contact Carrie Edmonds on Tel: 01425 470721 or e-mail cedmonds@eastdorsetdc.gov.uk.

THU 13th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Upton Heath, Poole / Habitat Management
Dorset Wildlife Trust - Urban Wildlife Volunteers
Carrying out tasks involving general heathland management such as pine control, path maintenance, scrub clearance, etc. Gloves, tools and baked potatoes supplied. Meet at DWT Urban Wildlife Centre, Beacon Hill Road, Corfe Mullen. For further information contact the DWT Urban Wildlife Centre on Tel: 01202 692033.

THU 13th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Durlston Country Park, Swanage / Various
Dorset County Council & Friends of Durlston Castle
Join this friendly volunteer group to carry out practical work to help with the restoration of historic Durlston Castle. The Castle is currently being re-developed as an environmental visitor centre for Durlston and as the main visitor centre for the Jurassic Coast. Volunteers are involved in work in and around the castle as part of the re-development. Meet at the visitor Centre, Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL Grid Ref: SZ031773 [MAP]. For more details, contact Ali Tuckey, Tel: 01929 424443 or visit www.durlston.co.uk.

THU 13th / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

THU 13th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

FRI 14th / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

FRI 14th / Time TBC
Turbary Common LNR, Bournemouth / Habitat Management Works
Bournemouth Borough Council
We will be working on-site for two weeks. Volunteers are welcome to join us by prior arrangement. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford or Gillie on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

SAT 15th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Town Common, Christchurch / Collect Your Own Pine Tree
HCT
Meet by the water towers off the end of Marlow Drive, Grid Ref: SZ144955 [MAP] nearest post code BH23 6BQ. Contact Graham Stanley, Tel: 01202 391319, Fax: 01202 392785 Mob: 07810 770569. e-mail: graham.stanley@herpconstrust.org.uk.

SUN 16th / 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Garston Wood Nature Reserve / Task TBC
RSPB - Arne
Training and equipment provided. Meet at the Garston Wood reserve car park. Grid Ref: SU003194. Contact Jack Edwards at the Arne Nature Reserve office on 01929 553360. [MAP]

SUN 16th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Hog Cliff / Hazel Coppicing
Natural England Green Team
Concentrating on the previously coppiced hazel along the fence line. Meet at the entrance to Hog Cliff Farm on the A37 Dorchester to Yeovil Road. Grid Ref: SY620975 [MAP] nearest post code DT2 9NS. Contact Richard Frost Tel: 01202 883084. Mob: 07756 864796.

SUN 16th / 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Lions Hill, Ashley Heath, Nr Ringwood / Pine Clearance
HCT
Meet on Lions Hill Way, off Lions Lane. Grid Ref: SU106039 [MAP] nearest post code BH24 2PY. Contact Graham Stanley, Tel: 01202 391319, Fax: 01202 392785 Mob: 07810 770569. e-mail: graham.stanley@herpconstrust.org.uk.

SUN 16th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location TBC / Task TBC
Dorset Wildlife Trust - Reserves Volunteers
Carrying out tasks on one of the smaller DWT reserves. Contact Steve Davis for further details on Mob: 07970 552679, Tel: 01305 217955 or e-mail: sdavis@dorsetwildlife.co.uk

SUN 16th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Alder Hills, Poole / Various
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Carrying out tasks involving general heathland management. Meet in the car park of the Community Centre (near Sainsburys) Grid Ref: SZ062933 [MAP] nearest post code BH12 4BH. Contact Nigel Brooks on 07970 552679.

SUN 16th / 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM
St Catherine's Hill, Christchurch / Pine Clearance
Christchurch Borough Council
Xmas ‘Treeat’ – Clearance of pine trees from open heathland. Take one home as your Christmas tree. Mince pies in plentiful supply. Under 16’s please bring an adult. As usual, remember to wear old clothes and bring a packed lunch if you’re staying the day. We provide hot and cold drinks and other refreshments. Meet at the Marlow Drive entrance to St. Catherine’s Hill. SZ141953 [MAP] nearest post code BH23 2RH. Contact Christchurch Countryside Service on 01425 272479 or e-mail countryside.service@christchurch.gov.uk

SUN 16th / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Redhill Common LNR, Bournemouth / Scrub Clearance
Bournemouth Borough Council
Meet on the main footpath near the white footbridge over the road. Contact Gillie on 01202 535140.

WED 19th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Durlston Country Park, Swanage / Various
Dorset County Council & Friends of Durlston
Join this friendly volunteer group to carry out practical conservation work to conserve and enhance this very special place. Meet at the visitor Centre, Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL Grid Ref: SZ031773 [MAP]. For more details, contact Ali Tuckey, Tel: 01929 424443 or visit www.durlston.co.uk.

WED 19th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Holt Heath, Nr Ferndown / Christmas Task
Natural England Green Team
Get your materials for festive holly wreaths in keeping with the season. A chance to meet the staff and volunteers from the National Trust in a combined task. Meet at the broad lawn entrance. Grid Ref: SU042047 [MAP] nearest post code BH21 7DZ. Contact Richard Frost Tel: 01202 883084. Mob: 07756 864796.

WED 19th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Studland, Purbeck / Various
National Trust - Purbeck Estate Volunteers
Tasks generally include; scrub clearance (gorse, pine and thorn depending on which part of the estate we’re on), hedgelaying, coppicing and drystone walling. Meet at the Purbeck Estate office, Middle Beach, Studland, Grid Reference: SZ036828 [MAP] nearest post code BH19 3AX. Contact the Purbeck Estate Office on 01929 450259.

WED 19th / 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Ferndown Common, Ferndown / Collect Your Own Christmas Tree
HCT
Meet in the gravel car park on Wimborne Road East, Stapehill (almost opposite the petrol station). Grid Ref: SU065007 [MAP]. Nearest post code BH22 9SY. Contact Graham Stanley, Tel: 01202 391319, Fax: 01202 392785 Mob: 07810 770569. e-mail: graham.stanley@herpconstrust.org.uk.

WED 19th / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

THU 20th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Durlston Country Park, Swanage / Various
Dorset County Council & Friends of Durlston Castle
Join this friendly volunteer group to carry out practical work to help with the restoration of historic Durlston Castle. The Castle is currently being re-developed as an environmental visitor centre for Durlston and as the main visitor centre for the Jurassic Coast. Volunteers are involved in work in and around the castle as part of the re-development. Meet at the visitor Centre, Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL Grid Ref: SZ031773 [MAP]. For more details, contact Ali Tuckey, Tel: 01929 424443 or visit www.durlston.co.uk.

THU 20th / Time TBC
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

FRI 21st / 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Avon Heath Country Park, Ferndown / Various Habitat Management
RSPB
Tasks vary throughout the autumn / winter, but will usually involve scrub control of birch, small pine, mixed broadleaf and gorse. We usually have a bonfire and packed lunch out on the heath. We will also be doing a limited amount of mature tree felling and need people to help drag and burn the brash. Currently we are removing and stump treating birch regeneration across the whole park (well the worst areas anyway). For more information contact Toby Branston on Tel: / Fax: 01425 472975 Mob: 07801 344024 or e-mail: toby.branston@rspb.org.uk.

SAT 22nd / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Canford Heath NR, Poole / Scrub Clearance
Borough of Poole
Controlling the spread of pines and birch is important, so come and help cut some down on Canford Heath Nature Reserve to keep the heath open. Task leader: Karen Pearce. Meet at the start of the Route E Valley, Grid SZ019958 [MAP] The exact task location to be decided – depends on how we’ve done at earlier tasks. Parking is available at Steeple Close, Grid Ref: SZ019953 [MAP] nearest post code BH17 9BJ. Contact the Borough of Poole on Tel: 01202 265265 or e-mail: leisure@poole.gov.uk.

SUN 23rd / 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Kinson Common LNR, Bournemouth / Scrub Clearance
Bournemouth Borough Council
Meet at the boardwalk near the Paget Road entrance, Grid Ref: SZ065959 [MAP] nearest post code BH11 8AF. Enquiries to Anna-Marie Ford on 01202 535140 or e-mail anna-marie.ford@bournemouth.gov.uk.

THU 27th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Durlston Country Park, Swanage / Various
Dorset County Council & Friends of Durlston Castle
Join this friendly volunteer group to carry out practical work to help with the restoration of historic Durlston Castle. The Castle is currently being re-developed as an environmental visitor centre for Durlston and as the main visitor centre for the Jurassic Coast. Volunteers are involved in work in and around the castle as part of the re-development. Meet at the visitor Centre, Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL Grid Ref: SZ031773 [MAP]. For more details, contact Ali Tuckey, Tel: 01929 424443 or visit www.durlston.co.uk.

THU 27th / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Slop Bog, Ferndown / Various Tasks
Slop Bog Guardians
Work parties are held on the last Thursday of every month. All tools and gloves are provided and a ranger will supervise the tasks. Would-be volunteers are invited to meet us at the Redwood Drive entrance, Grid Ref: SU074016 [MAP] nearest post code BH22 9UJ. Contact the guardians on 01425 483809 or e-mail: enquiries@slopbog.org.uk

SAT 29th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Studland, Purbeck / Scrub Clearance
National Trust - Purbeck Estate Volunteers
Scrub slash and burn - something to burn off the calories! Task leader: Jonathan. Meet at the Purbeck Estate office, Middle Beach, Studland, Grid Reference: SZ036828 [MAP] nearest post code BH19 3AX. Contact the Purbeck Estate Office on 01929 450259.

SUN 30th / 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Studland, Purbeck / Scrub Clearance
National Trust - Purbeck Estate Volunteers
Scrub slash and burn - something to burn off the calories! Task leader: Jonathan. Meet at the Purbeck Estate office, Middle Beach, Studland, Grid Reference: SZ036828 [MAP] nearest post code BH19 3AX. Contact the Purbeck Estate Office on 01929 450259.

SUN 30th / 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Lydlinch Common / Habitat Management
Butterfly Conservation
Lydlinch is part of an area crucial to the Marsh Fritillary, and conservation work is vital to ensure that the habitat is kept suitable for its survival at this site. Meet in the lay-by just outside the village on the Sherborne to Sturminster road, Grid Ref: ST736137 [MAP] nearest post code DT10 2HZ. Contact Colin Burningham 01935 873219.