About the event

Fancy volunteering in the conservation sector? Join us at Milkwellburn Wood Nature Reserve, where we will be coppicing* hazel and using the cuttings to create deer guards to protect new growth from browsing deer.  

Milkwellburn Wood, Durham Wildlife Trust’s largest woodland, is a long-term project, which is undertaking a process known as PAWS restorations (Plantation on an Ancient Woodland Site). The aim is to gradually remove the conifers so that the native woodland can re-establish across the site, dramatically improving the area for wildlife 

*Coppicing is the traditional practice of cutting certain trees at their base to create a stool in which fresh shoots will grow. This practice allows more light to reach the ground flora allowing a more diverse range of species to thrive.  

After lunch, we will walk around the site, looking at the nature-based solutions we have employed to combat flooding, including leaky dams and live willow bank reinforcement.  

No experience or prior knowledge is necessary with all, tools, training and PPE provided. Please bring a packed lunch, warm waterproof clothing appropriate to the weather and sturdy footwear as we may be working on uneven ground.

The event runs 10am-2pm with a 30 minute lunch break.

Suitable for ages 11+. All under 18s to be accompanied by an adult at all times

There will be transport for up to 7 people from Rainton Meadows leaving at 9.15am - please book the ticket type 'with transport' if you would like a space on the minibus. For further parking information please contact Andy: 07484929677 / awadds@durhamwt.co.uk