Passionate about the environment? Rutland Water seeks volunteer conservationists

The team at Rutland Water is currently recruiting passionate young environmentalists to support its conservation works at the park.

Rutland Water’s Park Rangers are looking for 16- to 21-year-olds interested in the environment to join them as part of the reservoir’s Young Ranger programme. Volunteers on the programme will work alongside the Park Rangers on hugely valuable conservation efforts at the internationally famous nature reserve.

With last year’s Young Rangers getting stuck into everything from tree planting to building a giant hotel for insects using natural materials, the programme offers a wealth of experience for young people interested in conservation and the environment. Working alongside Rutland Water’s expert Park Rangers, the role is a fantastic opportunity for the region’s next generation of budding conservationists to gain some valuable experience for their CVs.

As a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area and a Ramsar site, Rutland Water is home to one of the most important wild fowl sanctuaries in Britain, which regularly houses more than 25,000 waterfowl. Conservationists on site have also pioneered the Rutland Osprey Project, which has welcomed more than 200 chicks since 2001, when the first wild osprey in central England for more than 150 years hatched. Set across more than 4,200 acres, Rutland Water is a haven of nature and wildlife which offers rich opportunities for young people who want to get stuck into meaningful conservation work.

Bay Mitchell, a volunteer on last year’s programme, said: “I am so glad to have been a part of the Rutland Young Rangers programme. I have learnt a wide variety of skills, in a positive learning environment. I was always excited to get stuck in, no matter the weather, because we made a real difference to the landscape at Rutland Water reserve.

“From planting trees to coppicing hedges and dry stone walling, I always felt pleased to see the progress we made in one day. It has fuelled my passion to become a conservationist and see bigger positive changes in ecosystems in the future. I think joining the Young Rangers is a fantastic opportunity for any young person to get out in nature and discover their capabilities.”

Successful applicants will need to be available for one Sunday a month between September and August. To apply, email parksinfo@anglianwater.co.uk by Saturday 30 September.