Countryside Jobs Service Weekly®

CJS - The original, the biggest and the best in the field, THE countryside specialists since 1994

The original weekly newsletter for countryside staff

Every Friday : 29 January 2021

CJS is endorsed by the Scottish Countryside Rangers Association and the Countryside Management Association.

Featured Charity: Campaign for National Parks www.countryside-jobs.com [email protected] 01947 896007 CJS®, The Moorlands, Goathland, Whitby YO22 5LZ Created by Anthea & Niall Carson, July ’94

We asked, you spoke, we listened At the end of last year we asked you, our lovely readers, to help us out and tell us a little about yourselves so that we could update our reader profile for the advertisers. We've crunched all the data and our advertiser's information now carries the latest details, if you're interested you can download the full media pack complete with the new profiles here.

Job Sectors We also gave you the chance to tell us which areas we should be focusing on and which we should look at less. Of the areas we already cover unsurprisingly the top request was for more countryside management roles, closely followed by ecology so we've used this in our contact to potential advertisers. Education, both adult and further training as well as environmental education and forest school, was high on the list for more coverage as well as wildlife and zoology work so we're looking at sourcing more of these for you. An area that we have not majored on in recent years is sustainability and energy, this was another big hit on the more please and your high levels of requests should make it easier to persuade advertisers who've not used CJS for this sort of role to give it a try. Closely following the green revolution came rural regeneration, we've found that these posts are often very geographically localised and frequently run by or hosted by smaller regional charities but we're looking into ways to source and advertise these as well. The big surprise was that a high proportion of you wanted more research roles, 41% to increase current areas such as fieldwork and 59% to expand coverage to include areas such as plant pathology; this is going to be a project for us to look at in the coming months.

More information Several areas were mentioned as being areas of interest but the one that stood out was the number that were seeking more information on changing careers, we know this is a popular subject, never more so as people take stock of their lives in the wake (midst still?) of the Covid-19 pandemic. We have already started sourcing information on this and the last couple of facebook live sessions should have given you some pointers but look out for more in the coming months. A specific request for volunteer work and training in skills other than practical ones especially if it can be targeted for more mature people has got us thinking and this is another area we'll be looking into.

General CJS Your comments and feedback have also brought a few things to light, we were surprised to see how many people were unaware that the website has browse by sector and region options as well as a full job search. We've made some changes to the website which should make it more obvious that these features are already available. Many people spoke positively on the daily email with comments ranging from "I look forward to seeing the daily emails" to the lovely "Your emails and updates are fab". News and features were also useful and interesting - which makes all the hard work worthwhile.

The last question was which charity should we support. The results were evenly split: 50.7% for birds with the Wildlife Trusts and 49.2% for plants with Plantlife. So we've done both and will be sharing the many adoptions certificates online in the coming weeks, we'll give you a link to the master post once they've been shared, and gently suggesting you might like to adopt one too!

If you missed the survey you can send us your comments, thoughts and feedback at any time, simply email us and as you can see we really do listen and make changes according to what you've suggested.

CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 172-ONLINE-19/2 Trails and Access Officer Cotswold National Landscape £23,050 - £25,608 pa pro rata, 22.5 hours per week. A great opportunity to be part of the Cotswolds National Landscape team, looking after and managing the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK. The role-holder will work closely with the Access and Volunteers Lead to ensure the Cotswolds National Landscape provides high quality walking, cycling and riding experiences for people of all ages and abilities. This will include assisting in the day-to-day management of the 102-mile Cotswold Way National Trail which runs from Bath in the south to Chipping Campden in the north, following the stunning Cotswolds escarpment. The role-holder will also lead the delivery of the exciting Bathscape Landscape Partnership access project www.bathscape.co.uk. Further details about the role, including relevant skill and experience, and how to apply can be found on the Cotswolds National Landscape website www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk/about-us/jobs-careers Closing date: Monday 22 February 2021, 12pm. Interview dates: Wednesday 3 and Friday 5 March (anticipated to be via Zoom)

REF 173-ONLINE-5/2 Seasonal Tree Nursery Assistant x 2 Part time. Temporary (March - June 2021) Location: Moor Trees tree nurseries – Broadley or Dartington, Devon Salary: £11.50 p.h. Temporary contract 15 hours a week across 3 days (5 hours a day). This role will include working on regular Saturdays. Temporary - March - June 2021. Moor Trees (formed in 1999) is a charity that works with volunteers and communities to recreate native woodland in and around Dartmoor and South Devon. At present we plant approximately 5-7 ha of new woodland a year, mostly saplings raised in our two nurseries, which currently hold about 25,000 seedlings. We are currently expanding our operations and growing Moor Trees and our team of staff. We are recruiting two Seasonal Tree Nursery Assistants who will each work within one of our two tree nurseries. Each nursery will be growing over 25,000 native broadleaved trees to enable the delivery of our woodland creation programme. Candidates will be managed by a Tree Nursery Officer and work closely with the Operational Officer, Apprentices and volunteers. We pride ourselves on our community engagement and our volunteers are very important to help us achieve our goals. You must be able to provide a welcoming, enjoyable, and engaging experience for those volunteers and be friendly and approachable. In your role you will work within a small team so you will be willing to become involved in all aspects of tree nursery work. We are a dynamic, friendly and growing charity and are looking for people who can help us meet our ambitious objective of growing 50,000+ native trees every year and restoring woodland to places in Devon. The role is part-time, seasonal and will include working on Saturdays. To apply please download the relevant Job Description and Person Specification from www.moortrees.org, or email [email protected], or call 01364 649 277. You will be required to submit your CV and a covering letter, outlining your relevant skills and experience for the role. Any questions you may have or if would like to discuss any aspects of this role further please do not hesitate to contact Adam Owen (Director), [email protected] or Annie Talbot (Tree Nurseries and Woodland Manager), [email protected]. Visit our website: www.moortrees.org. Closing date for applications: 5 pm Friday 5 February 2021. Interviews will take place: Thursday 18 February 2021 at the Dartington Tree Nursery, Barracks Hill, Dartington, Devon. Interviews will be subject to adherence to Moor Trees Covid-19 risk assessment. A contribution of up to £50 for travel expenses may be claimed.

REF 174-ONLINE-12/2 Research Assistant Ref: JAN20218967 Location: Nene Washes, Peterborough Salary: £17,004.00 - £18,255.00 per annum Benefits: Pension, annual leave Duration: 4 months Project Godwit is diagnosing declines and testing interventions to increase the UK breeding population of black-tailed godwit. Population recovery is constrained by low productivity, caused by high rates of nest predation. The project uses temporary fencing to exclude some predators and has trialled head-starting as a method of increasing the number of fledglings and recruitment into the breeding population. The project requires an enthusiastic and skilled wader fieldworker to undertake 2021 breeding season fieldwork as part of a team. Project Godwit is a EU LIFE Nature Programme project in partnership with the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, with financial support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund via the Back from the Brink Programme. What the role is about: To work for the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science in leading the field team to undertake the fieldwork during the godwit breeding season. This is a challenging project which requires dynamic and determined people and at times, can involve long hours. The post holder will manage a Research Assistant, and potentially also volunteers or interns. The key tasks include: • Collect data on black-tailed godwit nests and chicks. • Reading colour rings in the field. • Finding and monitoring nests. • Ringing and colour marking chicks. • Capturing and colour marking adult godwits. • Monitoring avian and mammalian predators. What we need from you: • A relevant degree or equivalent experience. • Experience of fieldwork on waders. • Practical experience of reading colour-rings or other field readable marks. • Practical experience of locating/monitoring wader nests. • An BTO or equivalent bird ringing licence covering waders..• Knowledge of, and adherence to, legal and practical requirements on protected species and habitats, and for ensuring own health and safety. • Ability to use own initiative to solve day-to-day problems in the field. • Willing and able to work flexible and long hours, be self-motivated and work efficiently within a defined work plan. Able to work positively and efficiently within a team. • Full driving licence valid for driving in the UK. The role is full time. Accommodation is not provided with the role, however, the project will aid successful candidates where possible in finding suitable accommodation. Closing date: 15 February 2021. Apply here http://c-js.co.uk/3ppSsXJ. Page 2 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 175-ONLINE-5/2 Wardens Support Officer Penrhyndeudraeth About Us: Snowdonia National Park Authority protects the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of Snowdonia National Park. Covering 823 miles of diverse landscape, the Park is home to over 26,000 people, the highest mountain in Wales and England and the largest natural lake in Wales. We are now looking for a Wardens Support Officer to join us on a part-time basis for 22 hours per week. The Benefits: • Salary of £22,627 - £24,491 pro rata • Support access and rights of way within the National Park • Work from incredible offices on the fringe of Snowdonia National Park. The Role: As a Wardens Support Officer, you will provide a technical and support service to access and warden-related issues to Snowdonia National Park Authority. Specifically, you will manage the rights of way database and provide support across our organisation regarding rights of way and park access information. You will maintain images and maps relating to rights of way and access and provide general support to the Warden Service. Additionally, you will: • Train and support members of staff to use the rights of way database and related GPS surveying equipment • Identify, develop and promote routes such as the Leisure Network initiative • Support and assist wardens to carry out the annual condition survey of paths and other routes • Produce maps and other support for the production of strategy and policy documents. About You: To be considered as a Wardens Support Officer, you will need: • The ability to communicate in both Welsh and English • Excellent Information Technology skills, with proven experience of data analysis • The ability to read and interpret maps • An awareness of Rights of Way legislation • An awareness of National Park purposes • A working knowledge of GIS. Other organisations may call this role Support Officer, National Park Administration Officer, Parks Administration Officer, Right of Access Administrator, or GIS Administrator. The closing date for this role is 10am on the 9 February 2021. So, if you’re seeking your next challenge as a Wardens Support Officer, please apply here http://c-js.co.uk/2Y2b7wH. This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.

REF 176-ONLNE-5/2 Head Shepherd Drummond Estate An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Head shepherd to run and manage the 2,300 ewe in-hand Blackface flock on Drummond Estate, near Crieff, Perthshire, Scotland. The successful candidate will have the practical knowledge, experience and good dogs required to run a large hill sheep flock, along with the drive and enthusiasm to work with the existing management team to continue to improve performance and bring new ideas to develop the hill farming business. Experience with suckler cows will be advantageous. An ability to supervise staff and work as part of the larger team is important, as is a willingness to undertake the associated record keeping. This is a demanding role that will require flexibility, but one that gives significant opportunity to the right candidate to make their mark in developing and growing this business over the coming years. A recently fully refurbished 3 bed centrally heated house and farm vehicle will be available to the successful applicant, along with other associated benefits. Alongside current applicants, we would also like to hear from candidates who may be interested in taking on the role post lambing, if more appropriate to your circumstances. Please send your CV to: [email protected] or Drummond Estates, Muthill, Perthshire, PH5 2AA.

REF 177-ONLINE-19/2 Field Ecologist / Ornithologist (permanent position) Avian Ecology is looking for an Ecologist / Ornithologist to join our friendly team, based in our Lower Stretton (near Warrington) office. The successful applicant will have completed one to two seasons in consultancy and be an experienced field surveyor. Over the last decade, Avian Ecology has earned a reputation for professional excellence and for delivering consultancy services to the highest of standards, on projects of all scales across the UK. Our clients are from both the public and private sectors and our project portfolio is diverse and challenging. We offer a strong remuneration package in a friendly, dynamic and flexible working environment, where we support and encourage professional development and training. Avian Ecology is committed to attracting and retaining the highest calibre of personnel and providing them with an opportunity to flourish in an environment where excellence and progression is encouraged, recognised and rewarded. We cover all aspects of terrestrial ecology, as well as having a national reputation for ornithological surveys and assessment. As a Field Ecologist you will undertake regular survey work, process data and prepare results, and assist on a range of projects. Projects come from a range of sectors including renewables, infrastructure, minerals, conservation and large scale commercial developments. Key requirements are: • Strong experience of field ecology, survey techniques and of carrying out protected species and habitat surveys as part of infrastructure design or construction. Demonstrable experience in Extended Phase I habitat survey is a key requirement, so botanical skills are preferred. • Ornithology field skills and familiarity with recognised survey methods is advantageous. • The ability to provide clear and succinct survey reports. • Protected species survey licence(s) would be advantageous but not essential. • An understanding of relevant UK environmental / ecological policy and legislation is advantageous. • You will be a flexible, diligent and pro-active person who is motivated to work either alone or as part of a team to consistently high standards. Candidates will have a relevant degree or demonstrable background experience and preferably be working towards CIEEM membership. A full clean drivers’ licence is essential. This is a full-time permanent role. Salary will be competitive and dependent on experience. If you feel you have the experience and enthusiasm to join us, please submit your CV with a covering letter outlining your salary expectations to: [email protected]. Closing date for applications is 20 February 2021. Page 3 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 178-ONLINE-12/2 Assistant Warden Ref: JAN20218074 Location: Oronsay Salary: £21,718.00 - £24,294.00 per annum Benefits: Pension, life assurance, 26 days' annual leave Are you ready to apply for what will almost certainly be the most personally, physically and professionally challenging post of your career in land management? Perhaps you are an existing assistant warden looking for livestock experience or a stockperson looking for conservation experience? If so, then the position of Assistant Warden on the spectacular and remote island of Oronsay may be for you! We require a first-class assistant warden with excellent conservation / agricultural land management skills; the success of this site depends on high levels of integrated knowledge and the ability to apply it appropriately. For someone with the right skill set and motivation this is an ideal role with an enviable mix of hands-on agricultural work in close partnership with high-end conservation delivery and biodiversity monitoring. Oronsay is in a stunning location with awesome biodiversity that comes with unique and varied challenges: remote, isolated and with a small cohesive team, your approach to life is as important as having the right skills. The ability to live and work in an extreme island setting, often in extreme weather conditions, is therefore essential. You and the small team will form almost the entire population of the island; you will therefore need to be outstandingly committed, have understanding of island living, be resilient, mature and responsible, resourceful, adaptable and practically minded. If this sounds like you, we would really like to hear from you. You will spend much of your time farming, helping to manage the reserve with our own in-house luing herd and blackface sheep flock and associated feeding / cultivation / harvest. Your responsibilities range from undertaking most of the machinery and vehicle maintenance to completing the biodiversity monitoring on site too. You will need to have a positive outlook, and be an active team player to be successful in this role. Essential knowledge, skills & experience: • Relevant ecological knowledge • Relevant agriculture and livestock knowledge • Understanding of Hebridean biodiversity • Communication and interpersonal skills relevant to a small, intimate community • Active team player • Estate management skills • Record keeping / data management • Problem solving and practical approach • Able to comfortably lift objects weighing up to 25kg • Driving licence. Closing date: 23:59, 14 February 2021. Apply here: http://c-js.co.uk/3qJHQ6p.

REF 179-ONLINE-5/2 This position is a temporary post for 12 months funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Engagement & Volunteering Officer Post No: 44103 Salary: From £13,033 to £14,707 per annum (for 24 hours) Scale / Band: Grade 3 Hours: 24 hours per week Place of work: Highdown Gardens, Worthing, West Sussex Closing date: Sunday 7 February 2021. Interviews: Tuesday 16 February 2021 An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an Engagement and Volunteering Officer as part of the National Lottery Heritage Fund project to proactively implement a defined programme of activities and volunteering initiatives at Highdown Gardens. You will need to have a background of delivering a programme of activity and previous demonstrable experience of good practice in community engagement work essential.to engage visitors by motivating, enthusing and coordinating the work of volunteers and community groups. Highdown Gardens is a Grade II* listed garden of global importance set on the chalk downs near Worthing in West Sussex. Originally laid out by Sir Frederick Stern from Edwardian plant hunter-collected specimens, the gardens were bequeathed to Worthing Borough Council in 1968. In 1989, the gardens were recognised by the NCCPG (now Plant Heritage), and were awarded the status of housing a National Plant Collection of plants collected by Sir Frederick Stern. Therefore, a rare opportunity has arisen; to find out more about Highdown Gardens, please visit www.highdowngardens.co.uk. Does this sound like you? For an informal discussion about this post, contact Steve McKenna, Assistant Parks and Open Spaces Manager [email protected]. No CVs or agency applications accepted.

REF 180-ONLINE-19/2 Estate Manager An exciting opportunity has a risen to play a major part in one of the most ambitious ecological restoration projects in the UK. The Langholm Initiative, a community development trust based in Dumfries and Galloway in the Scottish Borders is currently in the process of buying over 5,000 acres of land and 6 residential properties from Buccleuch Estates in what is the South of Scotland’s first large scale community purchase. The Langholm Initiative are now recruiting an Estate Manager to lead the creation and development of the new Tarras Valley Nature Reserve. The community purchase is high profile and has been well covered in the media over the past 18 months. In addition to the major funders (Scottish Land Fund, South of Scotland Enterprise, John Muir Trust, Carman Family Foundation, Bently Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation and the Woodland Trust), nearly 4,000 members of the public donated to the purchase. Contract and Application Enquiry: The role is offered on a permanent contract with a pensionable salary of £35k per annum. The full job description and important information about the role, along with the application process can be found on the the Langholm Initiative website www.langholminitiative.org.uk/vacancies. Applications from candidates with suitable experience and qualifications are gratefully received by the closing date of 19 February 2021. This position is supported by: Esmee Fairbairn Foundation. Page 4 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 181-ONLINE-5/2 Reserves Ranger (North) We are looking for a passionate and committed individual to deliver exemplary practical habitat management on our suite of exciting reserves in the northern half of Nottinghamshire, including our flagship Idle Valley Nature Reserve. If you have: • Relevant experience of working / volunteering in the conservation sector • Experience of delivering practical conservation and countryside management • Knowledge of UK habitats and species and the principles of their conservation • The qualification to use tools, machinery and specialist equipment (such as brushcutters / chainsaw/tractor licence / spraying licence). Then we would love to hear from you! More details can be found in the job description and person specification. About us: The Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust is the county's leading conservation charity run by local people for the benefit of local wildlife, with nature reserves across the county - part of a UK network of 46 local Wildlife Trusts working to protect wildlife. Salary: £19,690 per annum Contract: This is a permanent, full time role (37.5 hours a week) Location: The post is based at the Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre, North Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 8RQ. There will be also be regular travel to various locations throughout the county. How to apply: For more information on the role and full details on how to apply please head to our website http://c-js.co.uk/363QNiV. CVs will not be accepted. Please note that only successful applicants will be notified. The closing time and date for applications is midday on Monday 8 February 2021. The Trust and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunities employers and positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. As an employer we are committed to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health of all our staff.

REF 182-ONLINE-5/2 Assistant Ranger Salary: £18075 FTE Contract: Permanent p/t (22.5 hrs pw) NT ID: IRC94080 What you'll be doing: With your endless passion for our work, you’ll help with the protection and care of habitats, wildlife, property and machinery, and your passion will inspire other to love this beautiful place as much as you do. We want you to engage with visitors, making time to talk to them, not rushing away to the next task. As an easily identifiable member of the Ranger team, on your best day you will be creating lasting memories for everyone. So whether you’re maintaining our green spaces to assisting with guided visitor walks, through to delivering a wide range of engaging visitor experiences, no two days will be the same. You’ll also share and promote the work that we do here, ensuring special places like these are here to be both protected and enjoyed by everyone for ever. This will see you responding to queries and explaining the value of the work being undertaken. After all, your passion and dedication could fire the imagination that makes a visitor become a supporter for the rest of their life. Who we're looking for: To deliver this role successfully, you'll need to: • Demonstrate a willingness to work alongside volunteers and be able to support them to perform at their best • Have a commitment to customer service standards and experience of its delivery • Demonstrate a passion for nature and the outdoors • Have good written and verbal communication skills • UK drivers licence • Practical experience in land, conservation and access management, to level 2 (or equivalent level of vocational experience) • Certificates of competency in: Chainsaw operations including crosscutting and felling small trees • Familiarity with machinery/equipment and practical certificates as required by the property. Apply here http://c-js.co.uk/2YbgQR3.

REF 183-ONLINE-5/3 Estates Grounds Person Betts Estates are looking to recruit a full-time Estates Grounds Person. You must be enthusiastic, hardworking, self-motivated and be able to work under your own initiative and as part of our team. This position is based in Martley, Worcester and will mainly cover sites in the Midlands, though some travel may be required. Candidates should have proven practical experience in land management, ideally with evidence to show understanding and practical application of today’s nature conservation and biodiversity protection/net gain policies. This position is likely to start in early March 2021, date to be confirmed. Responsibilities and Duties: • Grassland (of all types) and other habitat management using pedestrian and ride-on mowers, strimmers, chainsaws and other manual / power tools across our open space and nature reserves. • Tree, shrub & hedge planting, care, management and maintenance. • Making safe fallen trees and branches. • Meadow and conservation grassland seeding/establishment. • Management of aquatic (lentic and lotic) habitats. • Fencing maintenance. • Maintenance of machinery. • Litter removal & bin emptying. • Visual checks and basic maintenance of play equipment. • Mechanical weed control (we avoid chemical spray and pesticide use). Qualifications and Skills: Ideally candidates should have some, or all, of the following: • Lowland habitat management experience. • Experience with ground maintenance machinery, particularly ride-on mowers and brush-cutters with evidence of relevant qualifications. • Full, clean driving licence and trailer licence. • Chainsaw maintenance & cross cutting. • Experience with tractor driving. • An awareness of climate change and pollution as they affect land-use. • Good / emerging botanical identification skills • A natural enthusiasm for nature conservation. • First Aid Certificate. To see Betts’ site management policies, please visit: https://bettsecology.co.uk/policies. Benefits: Salary will be up to approximately £19,000pa dependent on experience and ability. Additional benefits include a commitment to ongoing professional development, the auto-enrolment pension scheme, a personal welfare scheme and 25 days annual leave (exclusive of public holidays). Salary: £19,000.00 /year. Please apply via email by sending a cover letter and your CV to [email protected]. Page 5 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 184-ONLINE-12/2 Country Parks Seasonal Ranger Reference: Buc01340 Type: Contract Position: Seasonal Ranger Location: Buckinghamshire, England Industry: Public Sector and Government Salary: £20247 - £20766 per annum About us: Buckinghamshire Council’s Country Parks Team manages three popular Country Parks and two public access sites covering approximately 950 acres and attracting in excess of 1,000,000 visitors a year. Forming a diverse range of habitats and landscapes, SSSI, LNR’s, parkland, formal gardens, lakes, lowland heath, mixed woodland, we have it all. Situated in the south of Buckinghamshire the Country Parks have a distinctive rural feel and are highly valued by our visitors. Covid-19 has increased visitor pressures on our parks. We have seen a significant increase in visitor numbers since March 2020 which we anticipate to continue well in to 2021. About the role: We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated, practical individual to join our Country Parks Team to support us in delivering high quality visitor services and site presentation. As a Seasonal Ranger, you will help us to maintain high standards of site presentation for our visitors throughout all areas of the parks, including our car parks, picnic areas and play areas. You will proactively engage with and assist visitors and other site users during regular patrols, including the opening and closing of our car parks. This role requires the successful applicant to live on site in a shared property (subsidised rent payable) for better performance of duties, contributing to on-call rotas and responding to emergencies and incidents as required. About you: As Country Parks Seasonal Ranger, you will be the face of the Country Parks Team to over a million visitors. You will thrive on working in a busy, fast paced environment and will be flexible enough to deliver a wide range of activities throughout the working day in all weathers. You will be self-motivated and confident in your engagement with our visitors. A good general level of education is essential along with work based or voluntary experience in either a practical site management or visitor services environment. You will hold a full driving licence and be eligible to undertake a Buckinghamshire Council driving test as well as being available to work extended opening hours, scheduled weekends and bank holidays. For further information and to apply, please click here https://c-js.co.uk/36bexBU.

REF 185-ONLINE-12/2 Woodland Creation Project Officer Forestry England Forestry England is part of the Forestry Commission. We manage 1,500 forests across the country covering 250,000 hectares. This makes us the largest single land manager in England, covering everything from great forests to small community woodlands. We are shaping landscapes for the nation. We plan to expand the nation’s forests to deliver even more benefits across England. Our woodland creation programme will significantly contribute towards government’s net zero target, nature recovery and the aspirations of the 25 Year Environment Plan. This post is an exciting opportunity to lead the delivery of new woodland creation at Forestry England sites in south-east England. The role will involve coordinating the delivery of new woodland creation projects on greenfield sites whilst engaging with stakeholders to deliver exemplar and resilient community woodlands benefiting people, the environment and business. Apply for this role at Civil Service Jobs click here https://c-js.co.uk/2YfbXq3. Closing date Tuesday 16 February 2021.

REF 186-ONLINE-5/2 Technician - Conservation, Woodlands and Agriculture Penrhyndeudraeth About Us: Snowdonia National Park Authority protects the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of Snowdonia National Park. Covering 823 miles of diverse landscape, the Park is home to over 26,000 people, the highest mountain in Wales and England and the largest natural lake in Wales. We are looking for a Technician for conservation, woodlands and agriculture to join us on a part-time basis for 15 hours per week. The Benefits: • Salary of £19,312 - £19,698 pro rata • Provide excellent support and administrative services • Work from incredible offices on the fringe of Snowdonia National Park. The Role: As a Technician, you will support our conservation, woodlands and agriculture service, providing a high-quality support and administrative service. Specifically, you will be involved in data collection, processing, financial controls and cartographic work as well as general admin support including filing, photocopying and project support. You will also be involved in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) work and support across the organisation including the Planning and Land Management Directorate. Your role will also include: • Producing documents and reports in relation to the service’s work programmes • Providing support role in the use of GIS • Assisting in producing, maintaining and developing databases • Supporting financial control systems • Responding to general enquiries to the conservation, woodlands and agriculture service • Establishing, developing and maintaining electronic and manual filing systems. About You: To join us as a Technician, you’ll need: • The ability to communicate in Welsh and English • At least one year’s experience of technical and administrative work involving computers • GIS training and experience • A good general education including Welsh, English, Maths and Geography at GCSE level. Other organisations may call this role Service Administrator, Technical Administrator, Parks Administrator, National Park Administrator, Administrative Officer, or Administrator. The closing date for this role is 10am on the 9 February 2021. We are also advertising for the part time role of Wardens Support Officer. Both roles together would provide a full-time post for a suitable candidate. If you wish to be considered for both roles, please submit applications for both. So, if you’re seeking your next challenge as a Technician (Conservation, Woodlands and Agriculture), please apply here http://c-js.co.uk/3iAj7i9. This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.

Page 6 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 187-ONLINE-12/2 Climate CHANGE Cymru Assistant Project Officer The Wildlife Trusts of Wales have recently launched a new project called Climate Change Cymru, to work with young people to tackle the coming challenges of climate change. The project is funded by the Climate Action Fund, part of the National Lottery’s Community Fund. Over the next 4 years, the project will seek to inspire young people to become voices for nature and climate change. We want to use this time to work together to come up with solutions to our climate problems, through practical conservation, spreading the word through film and online social media and a little engineering. The Covid-19 crisis shocked the world but has also served as a reminder that we can make a huge difference in a short amount of time with the right will-power. It doesn’t have to stop our work now either, we are working to ensure that as much of the project can be delivered virtually as possible, with strict social-distancing measures in place where physical presence is required. Every crisis is an opportunity, and we intend to use this chance to ignite the flame of change in the young people of Wales, empowering them to help secure the future they deserve. We are looking for an Assistant Project Officer to support the Community Wildlife Officer and other staff across mid and north Powys on this project to work with young people in the design and delivery of all project activities. As part of this project, you will gain work experience and undertake relevant, on-the-job training. We would encourage young people to apply for this role, should their prior experience/or enthusiasm to develop skills make them suitable candidates. Closing date for application: 5pm Wednesday 10 February 2021. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 9 March 2021 (to be confirmed). Click here www.rwtwales.org/job to download the job description and application form. Please send your application form to Silvia Cojocaru ([email protected]). If you have any questions, please email Silvia. Terms and conditions: Job Title: Climate CHANGE Cymru Assistant Project Officer Responsible to: Community Wildlife Officer Responsible for: Children and young people engaged during the project as well as volunteers working with or for the post holder. Job Purpose: Supporting the Community Wildlife Officer in the delivery of the Climate Change Cymru Project. Office base: RWT office in Llandrindod Wells. Hours: 22.5 hours per week for 3.5-year Apr 2021 - Jul 2024. Evening and weekend work will be required periodically, and a ‘time-off-in-lieu’ system will be used to cover this. Salary: £20,000 per year pro rata for 22.5 days/wk. Holiday: 15 days per year plus bank holidays pro rata. Contract period: April 2021 to July 2024, assuming successful completion of a 6-month probation period.

REF 188-ONLINE-26/2 Senior Ecologist / Ornithologist (full time, permanent role) In response to our continuing growth, particularly in the renewables sector, Avian Ecology is looking for an experienced Senior Ecologist to join our team of skilled professionals. Over the last decade, Avian has earned a reputation for professional excellence and delivering services to the highest standards, on projects of all scales across the UK. Our clients are from both the public and private sectors and our project portfolio is diverse, challenging and interesting. We offer a strong remuneration package in a friendly, dynamic and flexible working environment, where we support and encourage professional development and training. Avian Ecology provides a highly professional and progressive environment whilst also providing the benefits associated with a medium sized consultancy. Avian is committed to attracting and retaining the highest calibre of personnel and provides them with an opportunity to flourish in an environment where excellence and progression is encouraged, recognised and rewarded. The successful candidate will be based in our Lower Stretton (near Warrington) office, although remote / home working will be considered for the right candidate. As a Senior Ecologist / Ornithologist you will lead on projects and also work as part of a larger project team. Work will be varied, but there will be a strong focus on renewable energy schemes and particularly onshore wind and solar. You will work closely with our clients, providing clear advice and robust documentation to support projects across the UK. Liaison with planning authorities, regulators and stakeholders is a key part of the role, which provides excellent opportunities to further develop your project management skills. In this role you will also supervise junior ecologists and sub-consultants. Key requirements are: • Strong experience of field ecology and or ornithology, survey techniques and of carrying out surveys as part of infrastructure design or construction. • A clear understanding of relevant UK wide environmental /ecological policy and legislation. • Demonstrable ability to provide clear, succinct and robust technical reports, including Ecological Impact Assessments and Technical Appendices. • Experience in advising clients on the ecological requirements of their projects and knowledge of consulting with regulators and stakeholders. • Strong communication skills. • Experience in wind farm project management is desirable. • You will be a flexible, diligent and pro-active person who is motivated to work either alone or as part of a team to consistently high standards. Candidates will have a relevant degree and preferably be a CIEEM member. A full clean drivers’ licence is required. At least three years’ consultancy experience is required for this role. This is a full-time permanent role. Salary will be competitive and dependent on experience. As with all of our team, the successful candidates will be diligent, passionate, professional and enthusiastic with a flexible approach to working. If you feel you have the experience and enthusiasm to work as part of our team, please submit your CV with a covering letter outlining your salary expectations to: [email protected]. Closing date for applications is 26 February 2021

Page 7 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 189-ONLINE-5/3 Tree Officer £30,451 - £33,782 Grade: 6 Closing date: 7 March 2021. Interview date: Week commencing 15 March 2021. Permanent, full-time 37 hours per week. Monday to Friday. We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced arboriculturist to join our multi-disciplinary team, helping to manage the trees and woodlands across North Hampshire. Working closely with other arboriculturists, ecologists and landscape architects as part of the Natural Environment Team, you will have a central role in shaping the natural environment of a borough that is proud to do things differently. We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual who is passionate about the natural environment to help deliver a forward thinking arboricultural service. You will be involved with the strategic management of a large urban and rural tree population, delivering the council-owned tree and woodland maintenance programme. Working closely with other tree officers, you will also assist with development and tree protection in the borough. In return, we know that every single employee at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council makes a difference. We are keen for you to share and develop your skills as an arboriculturist and we will welcome you into a friendly and highly effective team of professionals with big ambitions for the borough and its environment. The post will be an excellent opportunity for you to develop your career. If you would like to discuss the role further, please call 01256 844844 and ask to speak to the Senior Tree Officer. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council offer a wide range of benefits, including a generous leave entitlement, access to discounts at nationwide retailers through our ‘B Rewarded’ discount site, flexible working, healthcare cash plan, pension scheme and much more. The council signs up to the Disability Confident scheme (formerly known as the ‘Two Ticks’ scheme). If you have declared a disability on the application form we can guarantee you an interview if you meet the essential criteria for the job. Please complete the application form and forward to [email protected] or forward a copy of your CV plus supporting statement to explain how you meet the criteria in the job description and person specification and forward to [email protected]. Please also complete the equalities monitoring form. Please can you submit this as a separate document together with either your application form or CV and supporting statement. Application forms and CVs / supporting statements received after 23:59 on the vacancy's closing date will not be taken into consideration. For further information and to download the person specification and application form, please click here http://c-js.co.uk/2M3XWZN.

REF 190-ONLINE-12/2 Ecology Officer Reference: Buc01350 Type: Permanent Location: Aylesbury, England Salary: £36984 - £37932 per annum Do you want to develop your career in Ecology in one of the most beautiful counties in Britain, boasting a wealth of wildlife? If so, then Buckinghamshire Council has an exciting opportunity for an Ecology Officer to join our new and rapidly expanding Ecology Team within the Planning and Environment department. The Ecology Team is a busy, professional and friendly team made up of qualified Ecologists. Together we work to protect, promote and manage the unique natural environment of Buckinghamshire. The Ecology Team sits alongside the Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Environmental Record Centre (BMERC) and the Arboriculture Team, overseen by the Natural Environment Manager. Buckinghamshire is currently experiencing a huge amount of growth. Working with us will give you the chance to work on major infrastructure projects as well as large and small-scale developments. You will also engage in partnership work with some of the key environmental stakeholders in the region. As a member of the Ecology Team you will provide ecological advice relating to the management, protection and enhancement of important habitats and species within the County, with particular focuses on the Chilterns and South Bucks area. You will provide authoritative ecological advice, guidance and support to colleagues, customers and stakeholders. You will respond to planning consultations from the planning teams, you may represent the authority at planning appeals. You will have a strategic role in helping in the development of our Buckinghamshire Local Plan and advising on Neighbourhood Plans, green infrastructure, biodiversity accounting, and other County-wide policies. Reporting to the Ecology Team Leader, provide expert advice on the impact of major and minor development projects, and recommend appropriate mitigation and compensation measures. You will work on projects in partnership with other biodiversity groups and have the opportunity to engage with outreach activities led by other members of the wider Environment Teams. We recognise that training is an essential part of any technical role and pride ourselves on offering excellent training opportunities and Continuing Professional Development. Please click here https://c-js.co.uk/3iJBam4 for job summary for further details about our role. The successful candidate will have: • Demonstrable experience of ecological planning advice or consultancy. • Demonstrable knowledge of terrestrial ecology, habitats and species of lowland England. • Knowledge of legislation and policy and guidance relating to habitats and species. • A qualification to degree level in natural or environmental science or equivalent. • Good project management experience and the ability to implement change are desirable. Closing date 21 February 2021.

Page 8 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 191-ONLINE-26/2 Ecologist / Senior Ecologist JBA have a vacancy for an experienced Ecologist in our busy Yorkshire offices. To contribute towards ecological survey and associated reporting at a variety of sites and locations across the UK, particularly in the flood risk management and rail sectors. You will also be responsible for mentoring junior staff members and inputting to bids/tenders and business development tasks. The post will involve demonstration of a high level of ecological knowledge in development of mitigation and survey strategies. The role is in support of our existing senior ecological staff and the ideal candidate will be required to: • Lead on and feed into Ecological Impact Assessments and Preliminary Ecological Appraisals. • Undertake detailed ecological surveys and specialist protected species surveys. • Prepare the ecology and nature conservation chapters of EIA. • Work with and advise teams on large, multi-disciplinary projects. • Work on ecological mitigation strategies and their delivery on site. • Undertake Habitats Regulations Assessments for both plans and projects. • Support delivery of marketing initiatives. • Undertake production of ecology tenders and project proposals. • Develop new best-practice principles and concepts and develop innovative solutions for clients. Further information: Contact Laura Thomas ([email protected]) or Kieran Sheehan ([email protected]) on 01302 720313. The right candidate will: • Mentor junior staff. • Embrace continued professional development and integrate this into their work. • Be a self-starter and able to work alone on projects without supervision. • Demonstrate effective team working skills. • Possess a full UK driving licence and be able to travel long distances, occasionally staying away from home. Who we are looking for: •A first degree (or equivalent) in ecology or a related discipline and full membership of CIEEM, or similar professional body. Previous experience of work in an ecological/environmental consultancy is essential. Competent in a range of ecological survey techniques and will hold at least one European Protected Species survey licence. Applicants will have experience of habitat and species mitigation, ideally having held European Protected Species licences in relation to implementation of a mitigation strategy. Be both technically knowledgeable to meet the above requirements and demonstrate fluency and consistency in verbal and written English and have excellent interpersonal skills. Demonstrate a good ecological skillset and have undertaken extensive ecological survey work. Thorough competence in Microsoft Office is also essential (ideally with experience of QGIS or another GIS package). Applications: Please apply by completing a JBA application form and returning with a current CV to [email protected] by 28 February 2021.

REF 192-ONLINE-12/2 Rhos Pasture Community Arts and Heritage Officer Radnorshire Wildlife Trust are seeking a Community Arts and Heritage Officer (part time) on our Rhos Pasture Restoration project, which is based around Rhayader in Mid Wales. You will work with volunteers, community organisations and the project manager to organise activities with local people, volunteers and visitors that raise the profile of rhos pastures and their cultural heritage. This may include exhibitions, oral history, film-making, craft and arts activities that draw inspiration from the local countryside and rhos pastures. You will be organised, have a keen interest in arts, heritage and wildlife, and have experience in arranging and delivering activities in rural communities, and engaging and working with volunteers. Base: Llandrindod Wells (working from home during Covid-19 restrictions). Salary: £13,768 for 22.5 hours per week. Fixed term contract from 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2023 (it may be possible to start in March 2021). More information and the application form can be found on the RWT website www.rwtwales.org/jobs. Please email your applications to [email protected] after 1 Feb. Closing date is 10 February. The Rhos Pasture Restoration Project is funded through the Welsh Government's Sustainable Management Scheme.

REF 193-ONLINE-5/2 General Manager £48,680 per annum Full time / Permanent Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT Reference Number: IRC95366 We are looking for a General Manager to Lead the team across this diverse portfolio of National Trust properties, with its diverse range of opportunities and challenges, no two days are ever the same! At the heart of this role is ensuring the highest standard of care of over 6,000 acres of ancient woodland, commons, farmland and open space whilst delivering a first-class welcome and great experiences to our visitors. You’ll be at the centre of managing both the natural environment, historic properties, and our visitor services, you will be a key decision maker and influencer to ensure these assets are cared for and accessible to all and the NTs wider strategy is delivered. In addition, you’ll work in partnership with our commercial Whole Trust Delivery Teams, liaising with Area Manager to ensure high standards and commercial return in Food and Beverage and Retail, as well with the Let Estate commercial team, managing a complex mix of tenancy agreements and licences. The properties are managed by a team of around 60 staff supported by more than 200 active volunteers. You will lead this team with skill and confidence, enabling them to shine in their various fields of expertise. In addition, you’ll liaise with and respond to the concerns of the communities that live and work around these properties. You will work with complex and sometimes controversial issues and have the stamina to progress challenging objectives. You will be an enthusiastic advocate for inclusion and diversity and able to adapt your thinking and approach to perform brilliantly in an array of formal and informal settings. For more information and to apply click here http://c-js.co.uk/3a6zEGC. Closing Date: 7 Feb 2021. Page 9 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 194-ONLINE-19/2 Suffolk Little Tern Project Officer Ref: JAN20218212 Location: Minsmere, Saxmundham Salary: £21,718.00 - £24,294.00 per annum Benefits: Pension, annuallLeave Duration: 8 Months This is an opportunity to work with a dedicated group of volunteers to conserve one of Britain’s rarest breeding seabirds, the little tern. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of a little tern colony in Suffolk during the breeding season and will lead on the upskilling and development of the volunteer group into a more independent, sustainable conservation team. What’s the role about? This role involves leading on the day-to-day management of the little tern colony at Kessingland in Suffolk to ensure breeding birds receive the best possible protection and are monitored in accordance with RSPB protocols. Integral to this will be working alongside a dedicated team of volunteers, providing them with the support needed to build on their existing monitoring, community engagement and organisational skills, increase their volunteer capacity and develop their long-term sustainability as an independent conservation team. The little tern colony at Kessingland hosted over 50 breeding pairs in 2020 and is a significant population of the wider east Norfolk and north Suffolk colonies, which are a key priority for the RSPB in Norfolk and Suffolk. You will be responsible for managing conservation efforts at this important colony and for training and developing a sustainable volunteer team that can continue to deliver this conservation work effectively for years to come. In doing this you will be working at the forefront of the RSPB’s Saving Nature Through People programme which aims to build a diverse, people-powered movement to save nature. There is also the potential for this role to provide occasional support to other colonies in north Suffolk and east Norfolk. Key activities will include: • Overseeing the day-to-day management of the little tern colony, making key decisions on conservation interventions • Overseeing the monitoring, recording and reporting of data from the little tern colony, including adult, nest and fledgling counts, tracking disturbance and predation incidences • Supporting, training and recruiting volunteers to deliver effective conservation action towards the development of an independent conservation team • Engaging with the local community to inspire behavioural change and recruit more volunteers to support the conservation of beach-nesting birds • Working with local land managers on conservation interventions away from the beach. Closing date: 16 February 2021. Apply here http://c-js.co.uk/2Nxikmw.

REF 195-ONLINE-19/2 Wild Paths Traineeship Co-ordinator Salary: £22406 pro rata Contract type: Fixed term. Working hours: Part time Location: Brooklands Farm (DWT HQ), Dorchester Dorset Wildlife Trust has a vacancy for a traineeship co-ordinator to facilitate the delivery of a comprehensive training programme for 10 trainees based with 5 partner Wildlife Trusts (Avon, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire) under the South West Wildlife Trusts Wild Paths project. There will be a considerable need for excellent organisational, planning and communications skills to ensure the success of the programme throughout the region. This is a highly rewarding and varied role that will provide the postholder with excellent personal development opportunities. If you are up for a new challenge, and want to be the catalyst for 10 people to benefit from a well proven traineeship to help open the door to a career in the conservation sector - this is the perfect job for you! This post is offered at 28 hours (4days) per week on a fixed term contract until 31 July 2022. For more information and to apply click here http://c-js.co.uk/3pvj3mg. Closing date: Monday 15 February 2021.

REF 196-ONLINE-19/2 Crayfish Stakeholder Officer 18-month fixed term contract - 21 hours per week. £24,000 p.a. pro rata plus up to 9% employer pension contribution Would you like to join an expanding and vibrant environmental organisation? Do you have a successful track record of developing and managing volunteers? Do you want to use your project management experience to help create a Yorkshire rich in wildlife for everyone? Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is seeking to appoint a Crayfish Engagement Officer to join our dynamic North Team. This exciting role is responsible for developing and managing teams of local volunteers to deliver crayfish surveys across North Yorkshire. The post holder will work with the North Yorkshire Crayfish Forum to implement the North Yorkshire Crayfish Strategy and finalise a delivery plan. As well as being passionate and enthusiastic about our mission to have more wildlife and wild places you will have excellent communication skills with a keen team working approach and the ability to work under your own initiative. You will have significant experience of working creatively alongside colleagues and partners to deliver and develop strategic project and partnerships as well as good knowledge and understanding of how to collect, process and maintain data. See www.ywt.org.uk for more details or email [email protected]. Please note we don’t accept CVs Closing date for receipt of completed application forms and accompanying equal opportunities monitoring form is 9am Monday 22 February 2021; Interviews: Thursday 4 March 2021. Please note that applications received after the closing deadline will not be considered. We are committed to creating a Movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone is able to be themselves and to reach their full potential. We want our people to flourish, just like nature. No agencies. YWT Company 409650; Charity no. 210807. Page 10 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 197-ONLINE-12/2 Harvesting & Marketing Works Supervisor - Newton Stewart £25,138 - £26,525 plus benefits Background Information: Forestry and Land Scotland is geographically spread across five regions throughout Scotland and has national support teams located in both Edinburgh and Inverness. The South Region manages forests in Dumfries and Galloway, Arran and the Scottish Borders. The Works Supervisor will cover harvesting operations within the northern areas of Galloway Forest, and provide support to other areas when required. You will work as part of a dedicated team to provide support to the team of Harvesting and Marketing Foresters, through front line supervision and site management of Standing Sale and Direct Production harvesting operations. You will play an essential role in setting and maintaining standards in all aspects of timber harvesting. We would welcome applications from students in the final year studying HND/BSc Forestry and would support them finishing their studies on a part time basis if their application is successful. This is a full time post (37 hours per week), however applications from people wishing to work an alternative working pattern will be considered. Applicants claiming a guaranteed interview will be invited for further assessment should they meet the minimum essential criteria listed below. Job description: To support your line manager in the delivery and supervision of site operations in line with FLS policy and industry best practice. Responsibilities: • Supervising Standing Sales and Direct Production harvesting operations in line with health and safety and environmental standards using tools such as site management plans and risk assessments. • Be familiar with Health and Safety procedures, standards and industry best practices. • Maintain and update records and site diaries, carry out monitoring and compliance of required standards and raise and report any issues or non-compliance to the relevant persons. • Assist in the planning of work programmes by attending to site and operational needs. • Use GPS or another device to accurately collect data and ensure SCDB records are updated and keep accurate. For more information and to apply, please visit our website: www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk, [email protected], please quote ref 94320. Closing date: 10 February 2021 at 23:55. No recruitment agencies please. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all sectors of our diverse community.

REF 198-ONLINE-5/2 Project Officer (Farm Networking and ELM) Based at Rothbury, Northumberland (home working currently due to Covid-19). 22.2 hours per week. Fixed term for 10 months. £27,741 - £31,346 per annum pro rata. Can you bring farmers together from across Northumberland National Park to encourage cooperation and knowledge transfer? Can you advise farmers on building resilience to issues such as Brexit and climate change? We are seeking an experienced and knowledgeable person to join our team of specialists advising farmers and landowners. Travelling throughout Northumberland National Park, you will co- ordinate an existing Facilitation Fund group of farmers as well as creating new farm clusters. You will need to be a strong influencer and to have obvious passion for farming and landscape as well as deep rooted knowledge about land management. You will need: • Educated to degree level in an environmental, land management or project management related discipline or equivalent level of experience. • Knowledge of agricultural and forestry land management grant schemes, issues and techniques to achieve environmental improvement and habitat connectivity. • Knowledge of current Natural Environment policy. • Excellent interpersonal skills, in particular an ability to discuss and negotiate effectively with landowners and other stakeholders. • Practical experience of fieldwork in an upland environment. For more information, please read the job pack on our website http://c-js.co.uk/2NknB0E. To apply, please send a copy of your CV and covering letter describing your reasons for applying and how you meet all essential criteria to [email protected]. Please use Project Officer (Farm Networking and ELM) as the title of your e-mail. Closing date 9/2/21.

REF 199-ONLINE-12/2 Director of Corporate Support Salary: £49,395pa plus 5% pension Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT) is Devon’s leading wildlife conservation charity, with 35,000 members, 2,000 volunteers, 100 staff and 58 nature reserves. We are one of the larger of the 46 locally based organisations that collectively make up The Wildlife Trusts. DWT has pioneered the reintroduction of beavers in England and the restoration of internationally rare habitats like Culm Grassland. We are also well known for our work in schools education and landscape scale conservation. We are the only Trust with ISO14001 environmental accreditation and were one of the first to commit to achieving carbon neutrality. We are proud of our values and working culture and have held Investors in People accreditation for 20 years. We are looking for a dynamic and committed individual to lead our corporate support activities, including finance, human resources, governance, property and IT. You will have experience of working in corporate services at a senior level, and considerable knowledge and experience in at least one of the areas listed above. This is an exciting opportunity to build DWT’s financial resilience, enhance our property portfolio and deliver our ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 or earlier. You will enjoy working in a high performing and ambitious team and playing a key role in shaping the future of the organisation as part of the leadership team. This is a full-time, permanent post based at Cricklepit Mill. DWT’s offices are currently operating special arrangements as part of the current public health guidance on social distancing, therefore it is likely that you will be required to work from home initially. You can download an application pack from www.devonwildlifetrust.org/jobs. Page 11 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 200-ONLINE-19/2 East District Beat Forester - Sandlings & Lavenham Do you have the skills and enthusiasm required to lead a busy team undertaking all aspects of forestry and woodland management in the nation’s forests in East Anglia? Forestry England is seeking an experienced motivated forester to join our East England Forest District Forestry and Land Management team working across a multi-purpose forest environment at our Sandlings & Lavenham Beat in the southern part of East Anglia. The role involves planning and managing establishment and harvesting programmes, woodland regeneration, conservation work and estate and recreation site maintenance. Your skills, interests and experience will reflect the responsibilities of the role in delivering forest operations and a wide range of land management programmes and projects. You will need personal resilience, and a deep commitment to achieving results with a small remote-working beat team. Closing date: 22 February 2021. Salary: £31,973. Contract Type: Permanent. Working Pattern: Full time. Office location: Rendlesham Forest, Woodbridge, Suffolk. IP12 3NF. For further information and to submit an application visit www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/ (search for this role using “Location” = IP12 3NF or “Organisation” = Forestry Commission England).

REF 201-ONLINE-19/2 Conservation Officer Salary: £26150 Contract type: Permanent / Working hours: Full time Location: Brooklands Farm (DWT HQ), Dorchester Dorset Wildlife Trust is seeking someone with a passion for wildlife to play a vital role in advocating nature. The postholder will play key roles in engaging with decision making in Dorset on planning applications and policy, aiming to secure a net gain for wildlife, and in ensuring Dorset’s Local Wildlife Sites (SNCI) are seen as crucial to the planning evidence base, and where possible are monitored and management advice for owners made available. We are looking for someone with excellent communication skills, experience of planning for wildlife and preferably good all- round natural history knowledge. Experience of wildlife surveys (especially botanical) or habitat management would be an advantage. This is a full time (35 hours) post, to be based at our Brooklands Farm HQ Offices although home working until restrictions allow otherwise. For more information and to apply click here http://c-js.co.uk/2YHFOWe. Closing date: Sunday 21 February 2021.

This post has a very short closing date

REF 202-ONLINE-5/2 Are you passionate about protecting wildlife and saving nature? Do you have a flair for communicating with people and enthusiasm for telling amazing stories about nature? Bird Conservation and Visitor Engagement Officer Ref: DEC20205871 Salary: £17,276 - £18,716 The RSPB is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic person to join their team at the Pagham Harbour and Medmerry nature reserves. More information about RSPB Pagham Harbour and RSPB Medmerry are available on our recruitment site. Who are we looking for? We are looking to appoint Bird Conservation and Visitor Engagement Officer focussed on reducing disturbance to breeding and over-wintering birds across the two nature reserves. Based at the small office and visitor centre at Sidlesham, the successful candidate will be working with visitors, partner organisations and the wider community on disturbance mitigation projects. They will deliver events and projects, monitor success and report back to the Site Manager / SPA Mitigation Strategy Steering Group. They will undertake regular patrols across both reserves, in all seasons; they will have a good working knowledge of shore-bird species and their conservation requirements; and they will be an excellent communicator. This post is jointly funded by Arun District Council and Chichester District Council as part of The Pagham Harbour SPA Recreation Mitigation Strategy. The strategy aims to mitigate the impact of housing development on the Pagham Harbour SPA and Medmerry proposed SPA through a combination of actions and activities. The successful candidate will be expected to forge close links with Arun and Chichester District Council Foreshore Officers, the staff employed by the Solent Bird Aware scheme (a wider scheme covering the Solent from West Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight), and staff employed by the Chichester Harbour Conservancy Key Skills: • Working knowledge of shore-bird species and their conservation requirements • Experience of building working relationships and working with or leading a team of volunteers • Working knowledge of and proven success in visitor engagement techniques • Excellent verbal and written communications skills • Proven ability to plan, prioritise workloads and work on own initiative • A team player who can motivate and inspire people • Ability to maximise opportunities for visitor engagement. For more information and to apply click here http://c-js.co.uk/39hYkg1. Closing: 1 February.

Page 12 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 203-ONLINE-19/2 Community Woodland Manager - East England Forest District This post is an exciting opportunity to lead Forestry England’s Community Woodland team in South East England. You will lead a small team to manage, promote and maintain Thames Chase Community Forest and Jeskyns Community Woodland and working with partners you will identify and realise opportunities to sustainably expand the community woodland estate. You will co-ordinate and champion new woodland creation projects on greenfield and brownfield sites, engaging with partners and stakeholders to deliver exemplar and resilient community woodlands benefiting communities, the environment and business. Apply here - https://c-js.co.uk/3j1kjLM Closing date for applications - 19 February 2021.

REF 204-ONLINE-19/2 Join a team which is changing places and changing lives Groundwork is the community charity with a green heart. We believe that big global issues - the economy, the environment - have a big local impact. Groundwork operates throughout the UK helping communities find practical solutions to the challenges they face. 2 x Project Officer (Hertfordshire) Salary: £22,591 to £24,998 depending on experience plus attractive benefits Location: Mill Green, Hatfield Hours: Full time 37 hrs a week Contract: Both 1 year fixed term contracts with potential to extend. Groundwork has a range of exciting opportunities and we are seeking highly motivated individuals with a passion for engaging communities, supporting people to learn and improving the environment to help drive our programmes forward. We are recruiting 2 project officer roles in Hertfordshire. One is to deliver a specific community engagement rivers related project in the south of the county and the other will deliver a wide range of community and education projects across the county. The rivers-based role involves working on a large project to engage and educate the community on the value of their local river and involve them in various initiatives to improve it. The second role will be delivering a variety of projects around family learning, community engagement, horticultural and gardening projects. These projects will support participants to improve their health, well-being and skills. Both roles will require strong project management and communication skills and will be leading practical tasks. You will be working with different community groups particularly vulnerable people as well as co-ordinating with local partner organisations. For more information about the specifics of both roles please visit our website where detailed job descriptions can be found. There is ample scope for innovation and we’ll make sure you’re given all the support and guidance you need to really take your career forward. The post is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check. For an informal chat, please contact Chris Dungate on 07872 400 778 or email [email protected]. For an application pack, please download from our website here http://c-js.co.uk/2Mm4FhE. Closing date: Midday 18 February 2021. Interview date: 24 or 26 February 2021 (via Teams or Zoom video call).

REF 205-ONLINE-5/2 Land Use & Farming Adviser Permanent London & South East Region 37.5 hours per week (Full time) As our Land Use & Farming Adviser you’ll provide support in key areas of sustainable farming, with the ambition of integrated land management that delivers for nature, carbon and other public benefits, alongside food production. Working in an integrated way as part of our multi-disciplinary team, you will help to achieve higher standards of land management across the National Trust, on in-hand land and tenanted farms. You’ll support our places with sustainable farming, conservation grazing, soil management and innovative approaches to re- purposing our land. You’ll also support the co-ordination of in-hand support for Agri-environment schemes and delivery of High Nature Status on our land. You’ll ensure compliance with relevant legislation and be involved in auditing information held and maintaining accurate records. You’ll deliver training to enhance skills and transfer knowledge to others. You’ll be working with tenants, engaging them with our nature, carbon and access ambition and influencing current farm systems. You’ll work with other teams to drive change and deliver a range of public goods at scale. You’ll draw upon, and contribute to, external data, trends and good practice to champion innovation in sustainable agriculture to increase our supporter engagement. You’ll build professional relationships externally, sharing expertise through partnership working and help raise our profile for sustainable farming and land management systems with new and existing audiences. You’ll also look to identify and secure external funding for our programmes. We’re looking for someone with an enthusiasm for sustainable farming and land management systems to join our team. You’ll be a great communicator with a good understanding of ecology and natural asset management and other public goods in a land management context. With your knowledge of relevant legislation coupled with you great listening skills you’ll act as an expert offering advice to your stakeholders and effectively challenging where necessary. Apply here http://c-js.co.uk/2NAa1Gx.

Page 13 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 206-ONLINE-5/2 Reserve Warden WWT Washington 37.5 hours per week including weekends and public holidays £18,146 per annum WWT Washington Wetland Centre is a customer focussed visitor attraction in Tyne and Wear. We are looking to recruit a motivated and enthusiastic Reserve Warden to join our team. The main duties of the post are to assist in the management of the nature reserve at WWT Washington, including the development and management of habitats, reserve infrastructure, and species monitoring in accordance with management statements and the approved management plans. In addition, the post holder will play an active role in both onsite and online engagement with our site and core conservation messaging. You will possess a positive, proactive approach across all work areas and play a key part in developing excellent inter and cross departmental relationships. Candidates must be educated to a higher education qualification in natural sciences or conservation management. The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) is a conservation charity that protects wetlands for wildlife and people. We conserve, restore and create wetlands. We are pioneers in saving wetland wildlife, both in the UK and around the world. At our 10 UK sites around a million visitors a year engage with wetland nature. We work internationally in key global wetland areas, balancing conservation with sustainable livelihoods and influencing national and international conservation policies. In return for your hard work and dedication you’ll enjoy a wide range of benefits including: • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service • Contributory pension scheme (conditions apply) • Life assurance • Free parking • Child care voucher scheme • Free entry to all our centres. For more information, and to apply for the role, please visit http://c-js.co.uk/3ceB2tn. Closing date: 8 February 2021. Interview date: 17 & 18 February 2021. WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit. Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410

REF 207-ONLINE-26/2 Farm Advisor Full time, 35 hours per week Permanent Salary from £27,000 per annum Based in Hampshire (The successful candidate must live within a reasonable travelling distance and be willing to travel regularly to various locations in Hampshire). We are a grassroots movement working for nature’s recovery and to bring people closer to nature. We are looking for a dynamic, experienced, and capable Farm Advisor to help progress our ambitious Wilder 2030 Strategy. Wilder 2030 sets a bold target to influence at least 30% of land and sea to be managed in a way that supports nature’s recovery. Farmed land within Hampshire will be integral to the nature recovery network. Economic challenges for farming and the uncertain policy and funding framework provide a platform for a diverse range of options to be explored and developed for farmers. This role will support the Principal Farm Advisor working across an established but growing portfolio of clients and projects. It will support the expansion of chargeable services via the Trust’s commercial wholly owned subsidiary Arcadian Farm Advice. The successful candidate will have a good understanding of financial viability in relation to the advice given. This must include an understanding of the challenges faced by the climate emergency and the biodiversity crisis and how this goes hand in hand with supporting the future sustainability of farming and its livelihoods. This is a great opportunity to make a real difference in a rewarding job in one of the most beautiful areas of the country. Closing Date: 26 February 2021. For further information and to apply please visit our website www.hiwwt.org.uk/jobs.

REF 208-ONLINE-12/2 Living Landscapes Officer South Salary £24,000 per annum Full time. In the role of Living Landscapes Officer South with Durham Wildlife Trust you will be responsible for delivering a Living Landscape across the Trust’s Southern Area; managing the Trust’s nature reserves and working with other land managers to deliver a coherent ecological network at a landscape scale. You will be able to demonstrate a good understanding of species and habitat management, and have experience of managing sites for nature conservation. Good interpersonal and leadership skills are important as supporting and developing strong volunteer support is central to the role. Knowledge of current issues affecting the agricultural sector and a familiarity with agri-environment funding will be an advantage. Ideally you will have experience of managing common land. You will have the ability to develop and nurture relationships with others, particularly landowner groups, engaging their support to develop a Living Landscape. A sound knowledge of natural history and a passion for wildlife and its conservation are essential. Based at Durham Wildlife Trust’s Low Barns Office at Low Barns, Witton-le-Wear, Bishop Auckland, DL140AG Please see the job description for further information www.durhamwt.com/jobs. Application by application form, CV and covering letter. For an informal discussion on the Living Landscapes Officer South post contact Mark Dinning on 0191 584 3112. Please return your completed application form, CV and covering letter by email to [email protected] no later than 9am Monday 15 February 2021. Interviews for the shortlisted candidates will be held virtually on Thursday 25 February 2021. Any offer of employment made following interview will be conditional on the result of a DBS check and satisfactory references being received. Employment will not commence until the results of those checks are known and deemed satisfactory. The successful applicant will be asked to consent to a DBS check and provide the information required to complete the check. An Enhanced check is required for the post of Living Landscapes Officer South.

Page 14 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 209-ONLINE-12/2 Stoat Detection Dog Handler Ref: JAN20218000 Location: RSPB Scotland – Orkney, Kirkwall Office Salary: £21,718.00 - £24,293.00 per annum Benefits: Pension, life assurance, 26 days annual leave Duration: 4 years The Orkney Native Wildlife Project aims to safeguard the unique and internationally important native wildlife of Orkney and the benefits it provides for local people and the economy by addressing the threat it faces from an invasive non-native predator: the stoat. Stoats threaten the Orkney vole, and many birds including hen harriers, short-eared owls, red-throated divers, waders and seabirds. It is therefore essential to remove stoats from Orkney to prevent significant and long-term negative impacts on Orkney’s native wildlife. Detection dogs are an integral part of the project. We are looking for an experienced dog handler and trainer, ideally with detection dog experience and an interest in conservation. You will be supplied with one or two trained stoat detection dogs and will be responsible for their welfare, but you will be compensated for their care and maintenance. The purpose of this role is to support the stoat eradication operation and biosecurity activities across the Orkney Islands and at ports on mainland Scotland, including advocacy / media work as required. If restrictions due to the current coronavirus pandemic delay your training and taking responsibility for your detection dogs, then you should be prepared to assist the stoat trapping effort. Key tasks include: • The homing, day to day care and welfare and ongoing training of one or two stoat detection dogs. • Performing searches for signs of stoats both for biosecurity on islands presumed to be stoat-free. • Performing search and track operations as part of the eradication “mop-up” in collaboration with the Trapping Team. • Collaboration with selected individuals from the Trapping Team who will be trained to run the search dogs. • Close and careful liaison with landowners when accessing land to perform searches. • Close liaison with port authorities and hauliers, in collaboration with the project Biosecurity Officer. At times this may involve working ‘out of hours’ or at one of the mainland Scotland ports connecting with Orkney. • Working the dogs for community liaison in collaboration with the Community Engagement and Education Officers. • Working with the Communications Manager to provide content for publicity using the dogs. Closing date: 9 February 2021. Apply here http://c-js.co.uk/3a3dJ38.

REF 210-ONLINE-12/2 Upper Ray Reserves Officer Salary: £22,000 per annum Contract: Permanent, full-time (35 hours a week) Based: Meadow Farm, near Bicester The North of Buckinghamshire is rich in wildlife and is made up of a landscape of mixed farmland with scattered ancient woodlands and these nature reserves are home to many rare and threatened species including curlew, Bechstein’s bats, and both black and brown hairstreak butterflies. The post will manage our Upper Ray Meadows along with several ancient woodland reserves. Working with roving and site- based volunteer teams and contractors to implement a range of practical works. The post will also recruit, train and manage a small group of Wildlife Trainees based at Meadow Farm. Applicants should have proven practical conservation management skills, at least 2 years of relevant field experience and ideally specialist knowledge of floodplain grazing marsh, lowland woodland and grassland habitats including some of the species associated with these. The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust is a membership-based voluntary organisation, managing over 80 nature reserves, influencing land management and educating and encouraging all sectors of the community to care for local wildlife. For full details on how to apply for the post, please visit our website www.bbowt.org.uk/jobs. CVs will not be accepted. Please note that only successful applicants will be notified. The closing time and date for applications is 11.59pm on Sunday 14 February 2021. Interviews will be held on Friday 26 February 2021 via videoconferencing. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust, The Lodge, 1 Armstrong Road, Littlemore, Oxford Oxon OX4 4XT Registered Charity No. 204330 www.bbowt.org.uk

REF 211-ONLINE-12/2 Site Operative The River Stewardship Company is a social enterprise based in Sheffield with a rapidly growing portfolio of commercial waterway maintenance projects with the Environment Agency, local authorities, riparian landowners and others. Purpose of the job: The Site Operative will contribute to the successful delivery of a range of Waterway and Upland management contract days across Yorkshire (and occasionally in the East Midlands). Contract days may include (but are not exclusive to) invasive species control, vegetation management, tree management, debris and waste management, moorland restoration work and the occasional delivery of volunteer days. Delivery tasks on site may include (but are not exclusive to) invasive species control, vegetation management, tree management, debris and waste management, moorland restoration work and the occasional delivery of volunteer days. Specific Duties and Responsibilities: • Work within a team to deliver upland restoration projects and waterway maintenance contracts in accordance with the client’s requirements. • To carry out work safely and efficiently to Company, industry and legislative standards. • Helping to ensure the professional conduct of the team including general behaviour, correct uniform and PPE, and high standards of work and Health and Safety. • Communicate issues to the site supervisor and/or Leadership Team that affect the safe and efficient operation of the team. • Assist in the maintenance the tool store, vehicle, tools and equipment and maintain all associated records and log books. • Support in the development of contacts, partnerships and relationships with organisations, riparian owners, community groups and residents involved in or located near to the regions waterways to develop opportunities to carry out waterway maintenance projects. • Represent the RSC as required. Closing date: 12 noon on 12 February 2021. Download the application pack here https://the-rsc.co.uk/work-for-us. Page 15 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 212-ONLINE-5/2 Area Ranger Full time (37.5 hours per week) Permanent Ripon, Yorkshire Closing Date: 7 February 2021 This role will help to deliver a bold new four-year £2.5m project that creates landscape wide benefits for nature, people and heritage across the Skell Valley. The valley, much of which lies within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, includes the World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, the historic city of Ripon, the Special Protection Areas and Special Areas of Conservation designated Dallowgill moorland and a range of farming communities (The Skell Valley Project in North Yorkshire - National Trust). What it's like to work here: Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site of outstanding international importance. Visitors have been drawn to this special place for hundreds of years, and the abbey ruins are one of the most iconic views in the North of England. But that's only one part of the story. The breath-taking water garden of Studley Royal is at the heart of the World Heritage Site, and it's a key focus for the team to raise its profile to be equal to that of the abbey. Visitor experience is at the heart of what we do, and the team are rightly proud of their visitor enjoyment ratings. There is a busy annual programme of conservation and restoration work across the 800 acre site, and there are ambitious plans to develop the infrastructure at this popular property, which attracts over 600,000 visitors a year. This is a great place to work and an exciting time to join the friendly 75-member team and over 400 volunteers, who are looking for engaging customer- focused people who will bring energy and ideas to this vibrant property. Click here for more information about this location http://c-js.co.uk/39r9UG5. What you'll be doing: You’ll work with farmers, landowners, the local community and volunteers to plan and deliver natural flood management, practical conservation, wildlife recording, heritage skills and community engagement activities to deliver the objectives of the Skell Valley Project. The project is jointly led by the National Trust and Nidderdale AONB and is part-funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and European Regional Development Fund. You’ll plan the implementation of and then procure and manage contractors to deliver natural flood management measures on land throughout the Skell Valley river catchment and develop excellent working relationships with farmers and landowners. You’ll take an active role in engaging volunteers in practical conservation work as part of the ‘Skell Valley Task Force’ and working with the local community to improve green spaces in the City of Ripon. You’ll work as part of a project team alongside the Senior Project Co-ordinator, Heritage Officer and be line managed by the Project Manager. You’ll work closely with National Trust staff at Fountains & Brimham and with the Nidderdale AONB team in Pateley Bridge. Apply here: http://c-js.co.uk/3iNwfk4 Advert continues online.

REF 213-ONLINE-12/2 Intertidal Interactive Officer Salary starting £25,295 per annum. Closing date for applications is 9am Monday 15 February 2021. Full time, fixed term – till March 2024. This post will lead on the natural suite of projects for the Tyne to Tees Shores and Seas Landscape Partnership Scheme (known as SeaScapes). The post is hosted by Durham Wildlife Trust and the post holder will be part of the wider SeaScapes team that will be led by the Programme Manager based within Durham County Council. You will be responsible for the development and delivery of a range of innovative education and engagement initiatives connecting coastal communities with the natural world around them. Ensuring people of all ages are able to learn, value and explore the Tyne to Tees shores and seas. This will include relevant terrestrial, intertidal and marine citizen science projects, development of local community groups, weekly activity sessions and practical learning sessions. More information on SeaScapes and the Intertidal Interactive projects please visit exploreseascapes.co.uk. A sound knowledge of natural history and a passion for wildlife and its conservation are obviously essential. Based at Spectrum 8, Spectrum Business Park, Seaham, Country Durham, SR7 7TT. You may be required to work from DWT premises at the discretion of Trust management. Currently home working is required. Please see the job description for further information www.durhamwt.com/jobs. Application by application form, CV and covering letter. For an informal discussion on the Intertidal Interactive Officer post contact Mark Dinning on 0191 584 3112. Please return your completed application form and covering letter by email to [email protected] no later than 9am Monday 15 February 2021. Interviews for the shortlisted candidates will be held virtually on Friday 26th February. Any offer of employment made following interview will be conditional on the result of a DBS check and satisfactory references being received. Employment will not commence until the results of those checks are known and deemed satisfactory. The successful applicant will be asked to consent to a DBS check and provide the information required to complete the check. An Enhanced check is required for the post of Intertidal Interactive Officer.

Page 16 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 214-ONLINE-5/2 We are looking for experienced Senior Ecologists. Salary: up to £35,168 pa Contract type: Permanent / Working hours: Full and Part time will be considered Location: The Old Ragged School, Brook Street, Nottingham, NG1 1EA Are you an experienced Senior Ecologist looking for a new challenge in a growing multi- disciplinary, team-focused consultancy? Are you someone who will do whatever it takes to get the job done right, every time? Are you willing to invest yourself in a culture of trust where you will always try to help others when practicably reasonable? Are you committed to promoting professional integrity in everything that you do? If you are then you might just be who we need to reinforce our mission: Through our expertise, integrity and high-quality services, we work to mitigate the impacts of development and maximise biodiversity, whilst supporting the wide-ranging work of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. Do you hold one or more protected species survey licences (including a Level 2 bat licence) and have demonstrable experience in wildlife mitigation and have you have previously acted as Named Ecologist on Natural England mitigation licences for bats, great crested newts or other European Protected Species? If so, it is you we are looking for! A positive work/life balance is very important to us and we know that being flexible means we will get the best performance from you too. If you are the right candidate we will want to accommodate your needs, whether that is working part-time or non- standard hours. In light of Coronavirus our listed offices, located in the heart of the creative quarter in Nottingham, are being refurbished to support flexible home and office working. How to apply: If you are interested in applying, please send your CV and covering letter outlining your experience to [email protected]. The formal closing date for applications is midday on Monday 8th February, but we may close this listing early if we receive a high volume of quality applicants, so don’t delay! Interested? Find out more: As a commercial subsidiary of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, we have the conservation and restoration of nature at our heart. When delivering our clients’ projects and objectives, we look for biodiversity net-gain wherever possible and through our ecology, land management and arboricultural services we deliver innovative solutions to benefit habitats and species. More details can be found in the job description and person specifications. Further information on EMEC and this specific role is available at emec-ecology.co.uk/careers.php If you have questions that are not answered in the supporting information please email [email protected]. Advert continues online.

REF 215-ONLINE-5/2 Project Manager Full Time (37.5 hours per week) Permanent Ripon, Yorkshire Closing Date 7 February 2021. This role will lead the delivery of a bold new four-year £2.5m project that creates landscape wide benefits for nature, people and heritage across the Skell Valley (The Skell Valley Project in North Yorkshire | National Trust) . The valley, much of which lies within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, includes the World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, the historic city of Ripon, the Special Protection Areas and Special Areas of Conservation designated Dallowgill moorland and a range of farming communities. What it's like to work here: Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site of outstanding international importance. Visitors have been drawn to this special place for hundreds of years, and the abbey ruins are one of the most iconic views in the North of England. But that's only one part of the story. The breath-taking water garden of Studley Royal is at the heart of the World Heritage Site, and it's a key focus for the team to raise its profile to be equal to that of the abbey. Visitor experience is at the heart of what we do, and the team are rightly proud of their visitor enjoyment ratings. There is a busy annual programme of conservation and restoration work across the 800 acre site, and there are ambitious plans to develop the infrastructure at this popular property, which attracts over 600,000 visitors a year. This is a great place to work and an exciting time to join the friendly 75-member team and over 400 volunteers, who are looking for engaging customer- focused people who will bring energy and ideas to this vibrant property. Click here for more information about this location http://c-js.co.uk/39r9UG5. What you'll be doing: You’ll be responsible for delivering the Skell Valley Project – a project part-funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and European Regional Development Fund which is jointly led by the National Trust and Nidderdale AONB. Working with the National Trust, Nidderdale AONB, farmers, landowners and the local community, you’ll manage a project team made up of an Area Ranger, Senior Project Co-ordinator and Heritage Officer to deliver 15 individual projects that will create a variety of benefits for landscape, nature, people and heritage. These 15 projects will be led by a variety of different delivery partners and include capital projects such as installing natural flood management measures across the river catchment, conserving historic buildings and designed landscapes, and creating waymarked and interpreted trails in the valley. There will also be a number of projects that involve working with community groups and volunteers such as restoring a nature reserve and green spaces in the City of Ripon, conducting archive and oral history research and monitoring and recording wildlife in the river. You’ll be the face of the project and an advocate for its objectives to the project’s partnership, its board and internal and external stakeholders. At the same time, you’ll have to keep your eye firmly on the detail of the project’s progress in terms of timescales, finances and delivery of outputs to ensure it is delivered successfully. Apply here: http://c-js.co.uk/3qPyGFs. Advert continues online. Page 17 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 216-ONLINE-12/2 Ranger £25,481 - £27,741 pro-rata Permanent / part time 18.5 hours Ref: VAC000954 This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to join Bristol City Council as a Parks Ranger and be part of a flexible and committed team delivering high quality service standards for the city's parks and green spaces. This is unique role within the organisation which will involve carrying out a broad range of horticultural, landscaping, and nature conservation management tasks in our most important and historic parks and estates. You will have a highly visible role working with the public and volunteers across Bristol. What will I be doing? This is an opportunity to join our innovative Parks and Green Spaces Service in Bristol. Providing formal parks, nature reserves, play areas and sports facilities we provide a vital free resource to Bristol citizens, important for the good health and wellbeing of every community. As a Ranger you will have a highly visual and important role in making sure our parks and green spaces are welcoming and attractive places to visit and you will help lead the landscape maintenance and management of some of Bristol’s most important green spaces and heritage estates. What do I need to have? We are looking for someone with experience in carrying out practical landscape improvement work, habitat management tasks, woodland management tasks and grounds maintenance tasks. Someone who can encourage and promote the use of our Estates and other parks by leading volunteer activities and programmes. You will have a flexible approach to work including working occasional weekends. You will need to be able to meet the physical demands of the role, have a strong customer focus and be prepared to lead volunteers, working both in a small team and on your own at different times. The post will mainly be bases at Stoke Park however may operate across a range of sites throughout the city and in all weathers. Why Bristol City Council? At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high-profile organisation. Join us and you’ll receive a generous rewards package including membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. In addition, you’ll be working in a supportive environment where you’ll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future. How do I apply? For an informal enquiry, please contact Mary O'Connell, Parks Operational Coordinator, on mary.o'[email protected]. If you share our values and are ready to be part of our exciting journey please select the apply button below. Please note that a full valid driving licence and ability to drive a wide range of Parks vehicles and plant as per the requirement of the service is required for this role. To apply click here http://c-js.co.uk/3oo3D1N. Closing date: 14 February 2021. Shortlisting will take place week 15 February 2021. Interviews are expected to take place on 24 and 25 February 2021. At Bristol City Council, we value having a workforce as diverse as the City we serve. We therefore welcome, develop and promote people from all sections of the community.

REF 217-ONLINE-12/2 Assistant Warden, Wallasea island Ref: JAN20217763 Location: Wallasea Island Wild Coast project Salary: £21,718.00 - £24,924.00 pro rata Benefits: Pension, annual leave Duration: 31 weeks The RSPB has a new large reserve on the Essex coast which is still under development and is in its first years as a working nature reserve. We are looking for an enthusiastic, resourceful and resilient person keen to take an early step in a career in conservation and join our team as a Seasonal Assistant Warden until October 2021 at Wallasea Island, a 750ha reserve made up of intertidal habitats, lowland wet grassland and saline lagoon reserve. The successful applicant will undertake a range of habitat management and species monitoring activities. Ideally, you will have experience in monitoring birds and managing the habitats found at Wallasea Island but this post will enhance and develop your skills and knowledge to progress your career. Over the next year, Wallasea Island will see some necessary groundworks to improve its ecological potential, the first season for its new hide and some improved monitoring of both biological and physical features. Key areas of work will include: • Habitat management as defined by the reserve’s management plan and agri-environment agreement. • Leading and inspiring the reserve’s volunteer team. • Monitoring of key species and habitats. • Maintaining high standards of health and safety to minimise risk to the RSPB and to ensure understanding and compliance of health and safety while undertaking duties. • Monitoring and maintaining reserve operations as compliant according to the various agreements and standards. • Maintenance of machinery to ensure they are operating safely and efficiently. • Maintenance of livestock and other infrastructure to ensure it is fit for purpose. • Collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders from wider team members, neighbours, graziers, Reserve Ecologists etc. • General administration and report writing associated with all of the above to ensure admin and reports are up to date and systematically organised. What we need from you: Essential: • Energy, adaptability and the desire to achieve. • Experience of estate management. • Well organised approach to work including developing and effective prioritisation of workplans and workloads. • The ability to work unsupervised, within a team or leading a team. • Implementing and updating health and safety records and assessments. • Experience in the safe operation and maintenance of machinery, tools and equipment. • Experience of biological monitoring. Closing date: 23:59, 15 February 2021 Apply here http://c-js.co.uk/3qVnBmj.

Page 18 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 218-ONLINE-19/2 Living Landscapes Team Leader - West (Fulltime – 35 hours per week) £28,500 p.a plus up to 9% employer pension contribution. Are you as committed as we are to creating a Yorkshire rich in wildlife for everyone? Would you like to combine your passion and knowledge of nature conservation and land management with our vision to have more wildlife and wild places? We are looking for a bright and energetic Living Landscapes Team Leader to lead our West Projects Team. The postholder will help develop, manage, and deliver our portfolio of projects, and in doing so help us protect, restore and create space for nature in West Yorkshire. As Living Landscapes Team Leader, you will take complete ownership of managing a number of exciting projects and programmes within our portfolio. You’ll be responsible for making sure all the projects in your remit run smoothly, delivering improvements to water environments, and the wildlife and local communities they support. Our perfect candidate will have excellent communications skills and have the ability to build great relationships with everyone they work with. In addition they will have strong project management skills with a good understanding and knowledge of ecology and conservation with broad knowledge of the interventions and techniques used for ecological restoration as well as a full driving licence. See www.ywt.org.uk for more details or email [email protected]. Please note we don’t accept CVs. Closing date for receipt of completed application forms and accompanying equal opportunities monitoring form is 9am Wednesday 17 February 2021, interviews: Tuesday 2 March 2021. Please note that applications received after the closing deadline will not be considered. We are committed to creating a Movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone is able to be themselves and to reach their full potential. We want our people to flourish, just like nature. No agencies. YWT Company 409650; Charity no. 210807.

REF 219-ONLINE-19/2 Join a team which is changing places and changing lives Groundwork is the community charity with a green heart. We believe that big global issues – the economy, the environment - have a big local impact. Groundwork operates throughout the UK helping communities find practical solutions to the challenges they face. Project Officer (Cambridgeshire) - Maternity Cover Salary: £22,591 to £24,998 depending on experience plus attractive benefits Location: Alconbury Weald nr Huntingdon, Cambs Hours: Full time 37 hrs a week Contract: 1 year fixed term maternity cover contract with potential to extend. Groundwork has a range of exciting opportunities and we are seeking highly motivated individuals with a passion for engaging communities, supporting people to learn and improving the environment to help drive our programmes forward. As Project Officer you will deliver a wide range of community and education focused projects that include: • Family learning / outdoor play activities • Community engagement and behavior change projects • Community food growing projects • Delivering practical gardening or conservation projects that improve well-being and health • Working with volunteers from range of backgrounds including those who are: vulnerable, young, out of work and ethnic minorities. You will have proven experience to deliver projects that engage communities and have the skills to plan, monitor and evaluate your own projects. The role requires a valid driving licence, access to a vehicle, excellent communication and diplomacy skills and excellent project management skills, including budget control. The post is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check. For an informal chat, please contact Chris Dungate on 07872 400 778. For an application pack, please download from our website http://c-js.co.uk/3a01vs4. Closing date: Midday 18 February 2021. Interview date: 24 February 2021 (via Teams or Zoom video call).

REF 220-ONLINE-19/2 Fundraising Marketing Officer Field Studies Council Salary: £22,053 - £25,157 per annum Location: Base Negotiable Hours: 37.5 hours per week. Duration: 12 months fixed term Field Studies Council is one of the UK’s leading providers of outdoor environmental education. This is a great opportunity to join the Field Studies Council (FSC). This exciting role will support FSC’s charitable mission by achieving fundraising targets from individual giving marketing campaigns. The focus is widening access to FSC’s environment education by delivering campaigns to attract and retain donors. This is an exciting position to meet ambitious targets to raise funding through a full mix of marketing channels and help demonstrate our charity’s impact. The post holder will work with FSC’s fundraising and marketing leads to make direct appeals to target audiences and deliver supporter journeys. The successful candidate will have experience achieving fundraising targets from delivering processes to engage charitable supporters/funders. The successful candidate will also have experience designing and delivering marketing campaigns to achieve targets. Plus, a demonstrable interest in environmental education. This is a 12-month fixed term position, but with the intention to extend based on growth of fundraising income. The post has a flexible base at a FSC centre or working from home. It will include the need to travel to FSC locations and other venues throughout the UK, which will involve some overnight stays. Please apply if you are interested in joining an internationally respected organisation where there are brilliant opportunities for self-development and where you use your passion for biodiversity to enthuse others and protect our natural heritage. Job description and how to apply: You can access the Job Description via this link https://c-js.co.uk/3iT3Bhk. Closing date: 12 noon on Monday 22 February 2021. Interviews are planned for the first week of March 2021 (virtual likely), with shortlisted applicants being contacted by telephone and/or email. Page 19 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 221-ONLINE-12/2 Living Collections Manager WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Ormskirk, Lancashire 37.5 Hours per week to be worked on a rota basis to include weekends, bank holidays and evenings in line with business requirements. £29,351 per annum (accommodation provided) Exciting times are coming to Martin Mere, where we are planning considerable investment in redeveloping our zoological collection. As a result, we are looking to recruit a creative individual, with avicultural, grounds and people management experience, to take responsibility for our already outstanding collection of wetland birds and mammals, to support our exciting development plans and to bring a team of keepers along for the ride. The successful candidate will ensure that their team performs at the highest level, be instrumental in improving animal husbandry, build strong working relationships with other departments and contribute to developing new exhibits. Other duties will include public engagement and keeping the grounds to a high standard of presentation. You will form part of the duty management team and there is an opportunity for a rent-free, on-site, three bedroom cottage, overlooking Martin Mere, to enable better performance of duties (including providing some out of hours emergency cover). The successful candidate will be educated to A level standard, or equivalent, with previous animal husbandry experience, in particular, aviculture. Previous people management is essential, as are excellent communication skills. Experience of the design and development of exhibits and horticultural management are desirable. The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) is a conservation charity that protects wetlands for wildlife and people. We conserve, restore and create wetlands. We are pioneers in saving wetland wildlife, both in the UK and around the world. At our 10 UK sites around a million visitors a year engage with wetland nature. We work internationally in key global wetland areas, balancing conservation with sustainable livelihoods and influencing national and international conservation policies. In return for your hard work and dedication you’ll enjoy a wide range of benefits including: • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service • Contributory pension scheme (conditions apply) • Life assurance • Free car parking and secure bike storage areas • Cycle to work scheme • Free entry to all our centres • WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit. For more information, and to apply for the role, please visit http://c-js.co.uk/3iZ5YPW. Closing date: 10 February 2021. Interview date: 22 February 2021. Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410

REF 222-ONLINE-19/2 Are you looking for a unique opportunity to work in one of the most amazing places in the world? The Cairngorms National Park is one of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. Renowned for its mountains, it has at its centre a montane plateau higher than 1000m, it also has extensive native pine forests, extensive moorland and a rich and diverse cultural landscape along its straths and glens. With its strong local music scene, some fantastic locally produced food and drink and it’s abundance of outdoor pursuits the Cairngorms National Park is a very special place to live and work. Conservation Officer (Maternity Cover) Salary: £31,438 - £37,844 (Band D) plus excellent benefits such as flexitime, generous annual leave and a defined pension scheme to name just a few. Contract: 12 month fixed term contract Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week Location: Grantown on Spey We have an exciting opportunity for a Conservation Officer (Maternity Cover) to join the Conservation team. The successful applicant will work to secure the ecological assessment, conservation, and enhancement of the natural heritage of the National Park by developing and delivering conservation projects and advising on planning applications. This includes managing the Cairngorms Nature Index; a major project undertaking an ecosystem assessment of the Park’s natural heritage. Experience in this area is desirable. Our work is delivered through working with partners, land managers and communities. The post holder is expected to provide advice on a wide range of natural heritage matters to CNPA staff and Board Members, as well as outside bodies. Cairngorms National Park is more than just an idyllic place to work, the Park Authority is one of the UK’s Top 100 best not for profit companies to work for. We also offer many benefits such as; a great place to work, cycle to work scheme, generous annual leave allowance, flexitime and a very competitive pension scheme. Our Grantown on Spey headquarters is within easy reach of Aviemore and Inverness. The National Park Authority is committed to equality of opportunity and we welcome applicants from all sectors of society. If you are an applicant with disabilities who meets the essential requirements of the post, we will interview you. If you would like the opportunity to work for an organisation that is focused on protecting and enhancing this National Park then please download the job description and application pack from our website http://c-js.co.uk/39v9fDa. If you require more information, or if you require any adjustments to be made to the application process due to disability please contact us on 01479 873535 or email: [email protected] Please note, we do not accept Curriculum Vitae (CV). Applications should be emailed to [email protected]. The closing date for applications is 12pm (noon) on Thursday 18 February 2021, late applications will not be accepted. Shortlisted candidates should be available for interviews which will be held virtually on Wednesday 10 March 2021. To see how the CNPA collects and processes personal data relating to job applicants, please view the privacy notice available on our website.

Page 20 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts REF 223-ONLINE-12/2 Senior Research Assistant Location: Nene Washes, Peterborough Salary: £21,718.00 - £24,294.00 per annum Duration: 6 months Project Godwit is diagnosing declines and testing interventions to increase the UK breeding population of black-tailed godwit. Population recovery is constrained by low productivity, caused by high rates of nest predation. The project uses temporary fencing to exclude some predators and has trialled head-starting as a method of increasing the number of fledglings and recruitment into the breeding population. The project requires an enthusiastic, skilled and experienced wader fieldworker, to undertake and take the lead on the 2021 breeding season fieldwork. Project Godwit is a EU LIFE Nature Programme project in partnership with the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, with financial support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund via the Back from the Brink Programme. What the role is about: To work for the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science in leading the field team to undertake the fieldwork during the godwit breeding season. This is a challenging project which requires dynamic and determined people and at times, can involve long hours. The post holder will manage a Research Assistant, and potentially also volunteers or interns. The key tasks include: • Collect data on black-tailed godwit nests and chicks. • Reading colour rings in the field. • Finding and monitoring nests. • Ringing and colour marking chicks. • Capturing and colour marking adult godwits. • Monitoring avian and mammalian predators. • Manipulating and interpreting large volumes of data using Pivot Tables in Excel or other appropriate software packages. What we need from you: • A relevant degree or equivalent experience. • Experience of planning fieldwork and supervising field assistants, training and supporting them. • Experience of fieldwork on waders. • Practical experience of reading colour- rings or other field readable marks. • Practical experience of locating/monitoring wader nests. • A BTO or equivalent bird ringing licence covering waders. • Knowledge of, and adherence to, legal and practical requirements on protected species and habitats, and for ensuring own health and safety. • Ability to use own initiative to solve day-to-day problems in the field. • Willing and able to work flexible and long hours, be self-motivated and work efficiently within a defined work plan. Able to work positively and efficiently within a team. • Skilled use of Microsoft Office and ability to accurately collect and collate data sets. • Full UK driving licence. Closing date: 15 February 2021. Apply here http://c-js.co.uk/39o4XO2.

REF 224-DIRECT-5/2 JOB ASSISTANT ECOLOGIST BE4 5/2/21 LOC SY14 8EF PAY 19000 - 23000 (depending on experience) FOR CHESHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST Are you the sort of person who can balance the objectives of developers with the needs of the environment? If so, and you feel you have the skills and experience to embrace the challenges of this role, then we would like to hear from you. This new, exciting positon will add capacity to an expanding team and enable the Trust’s work to grow. Working as part of a multi- disciplined team, you will assist and conduct ecological surveys, write survey reports and assist on mitigation strategies to achieve the best outcome for all involved. The job description and application form can be downloaded from www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/jobs.

The Rewilding Network – Spearheading Rapid Rewilding Across Britain Sara King, Rewilding Britain Network Lead

Interest in rewilding has boomed and is at levels never seen before. It has captured the imagination of so many, including landowners looking to reframe their approach to managing their land. The concept of rewilding, however, is still relatively new and is about relinquishing our control to let nature dominate. There are no set outcomes or management prescriptions, and habitats will constantly change when natural processes are given the space to lead the way. At Rewilding Britain, we are developing a new Rewilding Network aimed to provide practical advice and guidance, connect landowners with each other for a joined up approach, and support action on the ground.

The World We Want to See The world we want to see is a world where wildlife flourishes, reconnecting us with the natural world, sustaining communities and tackling the species extinction crisis and climate emergency. We want to live in a world where we face up to the scale of destruction we are heaping on Earth, put an end to further degradation and start to recover what we’ve lost. Rewilding is one of the solutions to kick-start nature recovery, and is the large-scale restoration of ecosystems to the point Pigs kickstarting natural processes at the Knepp Estate where nature can take care of itself. It has a vital role to play in (Sara King) the challenges we face.

To achieve this nature recovery, Rewilding Britain are calling for:  At least 5% of Britain in core rewilding  At least 25% of Britain returned to broader mosaics of nature-friendly land uses— including farming, forestry and fishing. Page 21 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts We see this expansion reversing biodiversity loss and enabling nature to bounce back, helping us all to adapt to climate change as our complex ecosystems find their own answers. By protecting, restoring and regenerating species-rich mosaics of habitats, rewilding helps reverse biodiversity loss and bring back the abundance of Britain’s wildlife.

Rewilding and nature friendly farming land uses including permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and agroforestry can all contribute to nature’s recovery. A diversity of approaches within a landscape are key to creating habitat mosaics that support a buzz of wildlife abundance, especially where nature friendly practices are combined with rewilding areas. Rewilding is most suitable within marginal land of low productivity – these are the areas where rewilding thrives and can create a whole range of high quality opportunities for wildlife. Rewilding itself can also be undertaken at a range of scales and along a rewilding spectrum. From small scale marginal land, to larger scale landscape initiatives – we encourage landowners to consider a strategy where they can go one step wilder, and incorporate these areas into their land.

The Rewilding Network Now is the time to catalyse rewilding in Britain. To do this, we will be launching a new network to connect rewilders, provide resources for shared learning, and build an evidence base for the impact of rewilding on wildlife and people.

We understand that here is no ‘one size fits all’ for rewilding. Nor is it White storks on the Knepp Estate about land abandonment. Anyone looking to start rewilding are likely to (Sara King) struggle to find a handbook that will provide them with a rewilding strategy for their land. Rewilding projects do not have management plans, with set outcomes or management prescriptions. One of the exciting things about rewilding is to let nature take the reins and lead the way. This is also, understandably, a very scary thing for a landowner or project manager to accept – there is a lot of uncertainty associated with taking the leap to rewilding. Our ambition is to create a network where landowners considering rewilding can speak to other rewilders, learn about their experiences (good and bad), access practical resources and events, and information to support them in their decision. Resources will include information about funding and finance, nature based enterprise, grazing strategies and carbon. Our new discussion forum will build a community of rewilders, and allow landowners to connect with others in their area. Local groups are also being established that can provide additional support at the local level. It will be a unique opportunity to connect, build a resource of information, and a support network for landowners on their rewilding journey.

We know that we have less than a decade to turn the tide on nature declines and to address the climate emergency. As we enter the UN decade of Ecosystem Restoration, we want to support and encourage change on the ground and promote the pioneering and exciting projects that are already happening. At the time of writing, our rewilding network map has 10 local groups helping to co-ordinate an joined up approach to rewilding at the local level, and 21 rewilding projects covering an area of 216,385 acres, with more to come. There is a diversity of approaches already being showcased, including military sites, upland sites, nature reserves, and areas where regenerative agriculture sites next to rewilding areas. We are also including marine rewilding projects, so that we can show how rewilding can be approached from the uplands all the way to our coasts and beyond. This is just the tip of the iceberg! We have also had over 350 smaller scale projects approach us expressing their interest in joining the network. We aim to inspire others through providing information about what other projects are doing. The before and after photo of Carrifran, one of our member projects, shows what rewilding can achieve in a relatively short space of time.

Rewilding Carrifran in Scotland, Before and After (Borders Forest Trust)

People power is what’s needed to radically shape a better future. The actions of thousands of people can help breathe new life into our depleted landscapes and ecosystems, and lock up missions of tones of carbon.

Page 22 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts We will be launching the Rewilding Network in the coming weeks, but we have already started to build a community of rewilders sharing their experiences and ideas. Our hope is that this will expand to support rewilding at all scales across Britain. The network will provide support and resources, but landowners and NGOs will also need access to expertise to provide tailored advice on their rewilding sites from ecologists on the ground with the appropriate skills.

Building our Evidence Base The impact of rewilding on biodiversity, communities and local economies is under-recorded. Although many rewilding projects undertake biodiversity monitoring on their sites, there is no unified framework for monitoring rewilding. Through the network, we are aiming to build our evidence base and understanding of the role of rewilding in nature recovery, as well as supporting resilient rural economies and communities. This will help to Rewilding Network Map of Projects and Local Groups influence policy, but will also provide a robust basis (Rewilding Britain) for showcasing the impact of rewilding. My hope is for the network to provide a unified voice showcasing how we can rewild our countryside, and the exciting nature based enterprises that can arise from wild land. Find out more about the Network on https://www.rewildingbritain.org.uk/rewilding-network

HighGround charity starts a new chapter By Anna Baker Creswell

I started HighGround Charity in 2013 to help more people achieve Life beyond the military – Outdoors.

Those who join the military to serve their Country are predominantly outdoors folk and during the time I had been running Gardening Leave, the charity I started in memory of my Mother to bring Horticultural Therapy to the military in the UK, I met many people both serving and veterans, who knew they didn’t want to work in an office but didn’t know where to start exploring with they did want to do.

As we enter our 8th busy year and I look forward to the arrival of Tim our first Rural Employment Manager generously funded by The Royal Foundation, I am so grateful for the support, leadership and encouragement of Ian Elliott our fantastic Chairman of Trustees and the many, many people who have funded, presented and connected to help the people who find HighGround on their journey towards Life beyond the military – Outdoors.

The next chapter will be even more exciting!

HighGround is not a recruitment agency; we approach the question of employment - such a crucial factor for those who make a successful transition from the military back to civilian life - from the perspective of the HighGrounder not the employer which means our first priority is the HighGrounder rather than an agency whose priority is, quite rightly, their client the employer.

As a charity, we don’t charge HighGrounders for the advice and support service we provide; my job is to keep the message about what we do simple, so those who choose to support us can do so with ease and total confidence. The charity world is full of good intentions….

Having made the decision that office life isn’t for you but the land-based sector is, where to start..?!

We don’t have an advertising budget and most people find us by word of mouth, which is also how we found CJS.

Once an individual has contacted us, our challenge is to help them to work out how their military skills and experience map into the land-based sector; whereabouts in the UK they want to work; what sort of employer they want to work for (the Queen has been for many, their only employer…) or perhaps like Jamie below, they have had enough of giving and taking orders and want to work for themselves.

Once we have nailed the basics, it’s time to open Pandora’s Box and help people to explore Conservation, Forestry, Agriculture and the many other diverse areas of the land-based sector we have identified where military skills, experience and values are the best fit.

Our wonderful friend and supporter Steve Davis found his way from the Army to Dorset Wildlife Trust where the problem- solving, teamwork and organisational skills he brought with him were probably more obvious than the observational ones amassed throughout his Army career which enabled him to comb the heathlands for rare species of butterfly……

Military life also teaches people skills which as more of us want to access our shrinking countryside, are ever more needed by Local Authorities and all those who are custodians of our National Parks and heritage landscapes.

Page 23 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts The ability to respond quickly during situations with humour, decisiveness and tact is something which many military people fail to recognise is a hugely valuable skill to many employers, and one which at HighGround we are keen to emphasise.

Every individual who leaves the military has a different set of life circumstances, expectations and needs. Some will have young families and mortgages and will need to find full time employment quickly whilst others may have joined the military at 16 and have come to the end of their service but still have a lot to give and are looking for their next chapter.

Our job at HighGround is to help them to work out what they want from their next chapter and how to get them there.

Thank-you to CJS for everything you do to keep the countryside connected – we think you are fab! Graham (HighGround)

Last word goes to Tim: As a service leaver, soon to be veteran, and with aspirations toward the land-based sector myself, I am aware of the limited support available to service leavers and veterans in identifying and securing meaningful employment in this sector. Equally I am aware of the qualities and skills which have been honed by each individual through their military service. There are remarkable synergies between military training and the aptitude required for land- based sector employment. Some of the more obvious such as management of manpower and resources, operation and maintenance of heavy machinery, logistics and the ability to learn quickly and overcome difficult situations; through some of the less obvious such as being in the right place at the right time with the right equipment, listening, asking relevant questions and understanding and completing the task as directed; to new skillsets such as the management and programming of automated machinery and autonomous vehicles and interpretation of big data into something meaningfully understood to improve yield and cost efficiencies.

Ray (HighGround) Understanding the above, HighGround have developed the unique Rural Week to aid service leavers and veterans in the decision-making process by exposure and briefing on many aspects of the land-based sector. Additionally, HighGrounders are offered continued support through their journey to meaningful employment. This is achieved through the HighGround network, a continually developing community of land-based organisations and individuals with an interest in supporting service leavers and veterans. So if you can offer work experience, a placement, have a permanent position to fill or would just like to know a little more about supporting service leavers and veterans please get in touch. www.highground-uk.org [email protected] @HighGroundBoss

Case Studies

Graham served for 22 years in the Royal Navy and joined us for a Rural Week in 2017. He sent us this picture and said “I’ve left gardening behind now and am a student at Cannington College on the Forestry and Arboriculture course, which is due to finish in June 2020. I have also applied for the Fdsc in forestry and arboriculture course which starts at the end of 2020. I think I’ve found my niche.” We salute you Graham and are very proud to have helped you along your journey.

Ray served for 23 years and following a Rural Week began his journey as a Long Term Volunteer with the National Trust. This in turn lead to the dream becoming a reality for him when he was employed as an official Ranger at Scotney Castle in Kent. In his words – “I feel indebted to yourself, Becca - far right (HighGround) HighGround and Josie for help with what was most Page 24 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts definitely the most daunting decision I’d faced in 23yrs (life after the military). Please keep up the good work as it’s made another difference.”

Becca joined us for a Rural Week while she was still serving in the Royal Navy, having found out about HighGround via the Officers Association. We were delighted when, via Ruralink, she found a job on a dairy farm in Scotland and now has her feet firmly on dry land – go Becca!

Freelance, self-employed and contracts out to tender Advertise your services and availability here: countryside-careers.com/freelancers

REF C225-ONLINE-19/2 Contract Ringer The Job: This is an exciting opportunity to work at Rutland Water Nature Reserve (RWNR), one of the UK’s best nature reserves. Based at its purpose- built Volunteer Training Centre. This will be suitable for someone who is looking for a six month bird ringing contract. You will be working with staff and the Rutland Water Ringing Group to help coordinate bird ringing activities across the site. The key focus will be to operate 2 long established CES ringing sites at RWNR and support other ringing operations. This is a 6 month contract commencing on the 1 April 2021 running to the 30 September. Accommodation will be available on site at the Volunteer Training Centre if required. The Reserve: Rutland Water Nature Reserve (RWNR) is managed by Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust in partnership with Anglian Water and provides one of the most important wildfowl sanctuaries in Great Britain. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a European Special Protection Area and internationally recognised as a globally important wetland site (Ramsar). RWNR occupies an area of land and shallow water covering 1,000 acres. This involved the constructions of nine extensive lagoons comprising shallow water, snaking islands and wet marginal habitats to provide optimum conditions for wildlife and ensure it is undisturbed by water management of the reservoir. You: Will have a passion for wildlife, enjoy working in a team and with volunteers. Be friendly, approachable, adaptable, communicative and enthusiastic. Applicants must have a BTO ‘C’ ringing permit (with mist net and puli endorsement). Pay £1330 pcm Accommodation if required would be £11.25 per night. For further information and to apply visit our website here www.lrwt.org.uk/jobs. The deadline for applications will be Sunday the 21 February 2021 at midday. Interviews will be held via Zoom on Friday the 26 February 2021.

National Storytelling Week begins on Saturday 30, organised by the Society for Storytelling the week runs through to 6 February – in celebration we have an article about using storytelling to engage children with nature:

Engaging children with nature through drama and storytelling

Founded in 2007, Eco Drama are passionate about making quality theatre and creative learning experiences for children and young people which nurture a sense of curiosity, wonder and care for our natural world and remind us we are part of an amazing living planet. Their work explores how the power of the arts can be used to inspire and support people of all ages to take positive, practical action for the environment.

Eco Drama’s innovative arts-based outdoor learning project ‘Out to Play’ was designed in 2015 to explore the unique role of drama and storytelling within outdoor learning. The company have now delivered 25 five week residencies in urban Glasgow primary schools and nurseries, each led by one of four Drama Artists. The project uses storytelling and imagination to turn everyday urban school playgrounds, often mostly concrete, into a place of adventure and discovery about the natural world, and has connected with over 4,000 pupils aged 3-12 years old and over 600 teachers, empowering them to continue this method in their future outdoor learning sessions after the residency is over.

Ben Mali Macfadyen, Drama Artist said: “I love Pupils participating in Out to Play (EcoDrama) exploring diverse mediums such as puppetry, storytelling, mime, treasure hunts, masks, forum theatre, ritual, physical theatre and music. This is an amazing opportunity and I can’t wait to have many wonderful playground adventures with the children involved whilst also developing qualities of wonder, creativity, physicality and knowledge about the natural world and our place in it.” Page 25 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts Come rain or shine, the ‘Out to Play’ pupils and class teachers ventured outdoors every week, celebrating the diversity and beauty of our living planet under the encouraging eye and guidance of the Drama Artist.

“Much of the journeying through mythical landscapes was about bringing natural places back to life using the imagination, one example being in ‘The Meadow of Memories’, where they gently took imaginary insects, worms and spiders from my pockets to a new home. I’m hoping that we will return to these environments in the coming weeks and see them continue to flourish.” (From Ben’s blog: To Neverland)

Their paths crossed water-worlds and treasure maps, story trees and animal tales, magic beans and living plants, mythical narrative and cherished songs. Fresh connections to the outdoors were grown and nurtured through Pupils participating in Out to Play (EcoDrama) imaginative play, drama and storytelling. Each week the Drama Artist would blog and re-tell their experiences, the games played and the stories told:

“I sat down the classes and read them the tale of ‘How the Camel Got its Hump’ from my great-grandfather’s tattered copy of ‘Just So Stories’ by Rudyard Kipling. In it are a wonderful collection of tales that explain the origin of animals with moral tales of transformation… After this I asked them how they thought their own favourite animals came to be the way they are, and this led to the creation of amazing performances of stories such as ‘How the Wolf Got its Howl’, ‘How the Chicken Got its Wobbly Bit’, ‘How the Baboon Got its Red Bum’, and the genius suggestion: ‘How the Pug Got its Squashed Face’.” (From Ben’s blog: Becoming Animal)

By using creative play and adventurous learning, the children built upon emotional connections to nature that are subtle yet resilient, perhaps even primal. The simplicity of touching a tree, the act of “becoming animal”, of planting seeds and patting soil, imagining whale sounds, singing tribal songs, recounting tales of wilderness near and far; these experiences helped to instil in them an affinity with nature. They awakened a curiosity about the world they inhabit and enabled them to spot it more readily upon their own doorsteps. A pupil from Balornock Primary said: “I loved it because nature is what is inside me. Thank you for everything. It has been a delight. Nature is important because we are nature. If we didn’t have nature we wouldn’t be able to live.”

The pupils’ obvious enjoyment of their sessions, their awakened sense of wonder and delight for the world they live in is celebrated in their feedback, as growing confidence allowed them to express their own individual relationship with the environment. Another, from St Vincent’s Primary, said: “It’s a fun positive way to explore nature and life. Thank you for teaching us. This program has made me aware of nature and more confident and happy.”

The ‘Out to Play’ residencies serve as an essential platform for teachers to experiment with and gain confidence in outdoor learning, whilst providing them with a holistic program of learning. Pupils participating in Out to Play with Drama Artist Sarah Rankin This is achieved through collaboration, co- (Eoin Carey) leading, post-residency CPD sessions and resource packs to be shared amongst fellow- teachers and local schools, leaving behind a creative learning legacy. a teacher at Aultmore Park Primary, said: “Ben has inspired me with lots of activities and stories – he has planted a seed and I look forward to implementing projects next season… I have loved being a part of ‘Out to Play’ and the children have absolutely loved it also!” And a teacher at Balornock Primary, said: “It made me realise that a lot of what I do inside I can take outside.”

It is Eco Drama’s confident hope that the impact of ‘Out to Play’ will echo in the minds of pupils and teachers for years to come; that it will even leave behind its own trail; a lifelong love for nature. Finally, here are a pupils’ wishes for nature: “I wish nature will never end… I wish nature can have a good life… I wish people wouldn’t cut down trees and pollute rivers… I wish people could understand nature… I adore nature… I wish flowers could talk…”

For more information on ‘Out to Play’ and to access the blogs from all residencies from 2015 to 2020, click here.

Page 26 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts Other Eco Drama productions and workshops

As well as ‘Out to Play’ residencies, Eco Drama deliver Continued Professional Development workshops to teachers and have written three resource packs as a result of the project, to enable educators to develop imaginative approaches to outdoor learning. The most recent pack is specifically aimed at early years, and there are two for primary age. You can read more about the packs here.

Eco Drama also tours theatrical productions and workshops to engage and inspire people of all ages to care for our amazing living planet. Their most recent show is ‘The Whirlybird, a funny, playful and moving piece of visual theatre for 3-7 year olds about learning to fly, encouraging one another and finding joy and inspiration in nature. Schools who book the show are given a Classroom Activity Pack, with lots of Pupils participating in Out to Play (EcoDrama) useful pre- and post-show activities. To get in touch with Eco Drama, please click here.

This article was first published in NAEE’s journal, Environmental Education (Vol. 110). To read more articles like this, you can join the Association and receive three journals a year.

News Headlines from the past week, Click the headline to read more.

Animal and Wildlife News Common pesticides stop bees and flies from getting a good night’s sleep - University of Bristol Just like us, many insects need a decent night’s sleep to function properly, but this might not be possible if they have been exposed to neonicotinoid insecticides, the most common form of insecticide used worldwide, suggests research by academics at the University of Bristol. Two studies by scientists at Bristol’s Schools of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience and Biological Sciences have shown these insecticides affect the amount of sleep taken by both bumblebees and fruit flies, which may help us understand why insect pollinators are vanishing from the wild. bee on potato flowers (image: pixabay) Dr Kiah Tasman, Teaching Associate in the School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience and lead author of the studies, said: "The neonicotinoids we tested had a big effect on the amount of sleep taken by both flies and bees. If an insect was exposed to a similar amount as it might experience on a farm where the pesticide had been applied, it slept less, and its daily behavioural rhythms were knocked out of synch with the normal 24-hour cycle of day and night." The fruit fly study published today [21 January] in Scientific Reports, allowed the researchers to study the impact of the pesticides on the insect brain. As well as finding that typical agricultural concentrations of neonicotinoids ruined the flies' ability to remember, the researchers also saw changes in the clock in the fly brain which controls its 24-hour cycle of day and night. Access the publications: ‘Neonicotinoids disrupt memory, circadian behaviour and sleep’ by Tasman K, Hidalgo S, Zhu B, Rands SA & Hodge JJL in Scientific Reports ‘The neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid disrupts bumblebee circadian rhythms and sleep’ by Tasman K, Rands SA & Hodge JJL in iScience [open access]

Rare hen harrier now reported on half of grouse moors - Moorland Association Hen harriers are being recorded on at least half of grouse moors in England, a new survey has revealed. The hen harrier is one of the most at-risk birds of prey in the UK and a government-led action plan is in operation to help boost the population. A survey conducted by the Moorland Association, which represents grouse moors across one million acres of moorland in England, has revealed a high level of endangered birds on land managed for grouse shooting. These include birds of prey such as hen harrier and merlin as well as waders such as curlew and lapwing. All four of these birds are on the ‘Red List’ of most conservation concern. More than 100 grouse moor managers took part in the survey and half reported hen harriers on their land. Merlin were recorded on 70% of moors. Thanks to the Defra-led Hen Harrier Joint Action Plan, which was developed by a number of organisations including the Moorland Association, last year saw the most successful breeding season for hen harriers for 35 years. Sixty chicks fledged from 19 nests across Northumberland, Yorkshire Dales, Cumbria and Lancashire in summer 2020. Twelve of these nests Page 27 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts were on land managed for grouse shooting fledging 40 chicks. Nearly 100 chicks have now fledged since the plan was launched in 2016. As recently as 2013 there were no successful nests at all. Moorland Association members are also actively involved in a brood management research trial to establish if it is possible to rear hen harriers in captivity and then release them to become successful breeding adults in the English uplands. Thirteen chicks have successfully fledged so far under the trial.

Land managers play a “crucial role” in UK songbird survival, say organisers of the 2021 GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count, 5-14 February - Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust “As custodians of the largest songbird habitat in the country, farmers, land managers and gamekeepers play a crucial role in the survival of the UK’s farmland birds,” says Dr Roger Draycott of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT). “The GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count aims to encourage even more of them to include conservation measures in the daily running of their farm, estate or shoot.” The count’s organisers are asking land managers to spend 30 minutes, between 5 and 14 February, recording the farmland birds they see in one area of their land. “Many land managers carry out vital conservation work, largely unseen by the public,” continues Roger. “By taking part in the count year on year, they can see how the conservation work they are doing is having an impact and our scientists can build a picture of the health of the UK’s farmland bird species. The GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count is a very positive way to showcase what can be achieved.” Tim Walters, a farmer from Hampshire who regularly takes part, says: “I really enjoy doing the Big Farmland Bird Count each year. As we continue to be involved in stewardship and environmental work on the farms, it is really interesting to spend half an hour each year counting wild birds. It is a good break from the rigours of day-to-day commercial farming and shows how beneficial the work is that so many farming colleagues do to manage the countryside.” Last year’s count saw more than 1,500 land managers take part. The GWCT hopes to beat that number this year. The Trust’s advisory service provides guidance to land managers, based on decades of research, on ways to boost their wild bird populations.

Sustainability, Pollution and Climate change Taskforce sets goal to end pollution from storm overflows - defra and Environment Agency New commitments from the water industry aim to increase transparency around storm overflows. A joint industry-government group established last year to tackle river pollution has today (22 January) agreed a new objective to prevent damage from storm overflows. The Storm Overflows Taskforce – made up of Defra, the Environment Agency, Ofwat, Consumer Council for Water, Blueprint for Water and Water UK – has agreed to set a long term goal to eliminate harm from storm overflows. Following recommendations from the Taskforce, water companies will also increase transparency around when and how storm overflows are used. Storm overflows were designed to be used during extreme weather to prevent sewers becoming overloaded with a combination of sewage and rainwater, releasing diluted wastewater into rivers rather than letting it back up into people’s homes. However climate change has led to increased rainfall and water infrastructure has not kept pace with development growth over decades. Water companies have agreed to make real-time data on sewage discharges available at bathing sites all year round, meaning surfers, swimmers and other water users can check the latest information – especially after heavy rainfall. Water companies will also accelerate work to install monitoring devices to create a complete picture of their activity by 2023. In addition, the Taskforce has agreed with water companies that they will publish annual monitoring data on their websites about their use of storm overflows so that progress in reducing their use can be tracked. The Environment Agency will compile this data into an annual report that is easily accessible to the public. Philip Dunne, MP for Ludlow, said: "“I have been shocked to discover the extent of sewage routinely spilled in our rivers. Poor water quality has a very damaging impact on aquatic species which depend on clean rivers, and risks healthy enjoyment of our rivers by the public. I am really pleased this Government has recognised that this has got to change. I am delighted the Minister has responded so quickly to Covid restrictions interrupting progress of my Private Members Bill by agreeing to work with me to develop measures to improve water quality across England.” The Storm Overflows Taskforce was set up in August 2020 to bring together water companies, regulators and environmental NGOs to accelerate progress in this area, building on work already underway to improve our rivers and waterways. Its work covers a series of short, medium and long-term actions focused on the goal to eliminate harm from storm overflows – a generational endeavour that will involve significant change and take time to achieve.

NRW report sets out pathway to a sustainable future for Wales - Natural Resources Wales Transforming the way we all live our lives is vital if Wales is to address the climate and nature emergencies it faces. This is the call to action emerging from a milestone report launched by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) today (27 January 2021). The State of Natural Resources Report 2020 (SoNaRR2020) is the evidence base that assesses how sustainable is the management of natural resources in Wales. Using the very latest information and research available, it builds upon the findings of the first report published in 2016 whilst taking a fresh look at the challenges facing the Welsh environment now and in the future. It also sets out an ambition to bridge the gap from where we are now to where we need to be to achieve Wales’ aspirations for sustainable living. The report explains how the well-being of both people and the planet are intertwined, setting out how Wales could deliver environmental change through transforming the systems we all use to support our lifestyles. It suggests that redesigning the energy, transport and food systems could help society to live within its environmental capacity and address the pressures causing the nature and climate emergencies. By re-assessing the individual actions we take, making pro-environmental behaviours the easiest choice, and taking opportunities for systems change through policy development, SoNaRR2020 presents real opportunity for change. Read more about the report here. Page 28 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts Recreation Some of Scotland’s best-loved paths are being revamped with new funding to remove barriers and improve access for all. - NatureScot NatureScot is funding almost £111,000 of improvements to the path network, including many on Scotland’s Great Trails such as the West Highland Way. A walker at Craigie Fort on the West Highland Way ©Lorne Gill NatureScot With a big increase in the number of people accessing the outdoors and connecting with nature over the past year, and more than 70% of the Scottish population living within 5 miles of a Great Trail, much of the work is designed to improve the accessibility of the network. Bridget Jones, NatureScot Recreation and Paths Manager, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has demonstrated more than ever before how important a nature-rich environment is for our physical and mental wellbeing. It’s encouraging that we have seen an increase in the number of people enjoying the outdoors over the past 12 months but at NatureScot we want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to access these benefits. This funding will improve surfaces, remove barriers and increase access on some of our most popular and scenic paths and trails, making it easier for more people to connect with nature and realise all of the many benefits that can bring.”

Scientific Research and Results Record number of wild flowers in bloom at midwinter: did Covid-19 play a part? - Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI) The results are in for BSBI’s tenth New Year Plant Hunt, when plant-lovers across Britain and Ireland head out to see what is flowering in their local patch. 1,811 people took part this year – more than ever before – but restrictions around Covid-19 had surprising impacts on the wild flowers they spotted in bloom. They hunted for up to three hours over the New Year period and recorded more species in bloom than ever before. Here’s what they found:  710 different plant species were recorded in bloom across Britain and Ireland compared to 615 last year and 627 in 2019.  A total of 21,419 records were submitted: almost 50% more than last year.  1,195 lists were submitted, compared to 798 in 2020 and 712 in 2019.  1,811 people participated, either individually or as part of small family groups and support bubbles – our usual large group Hunts were all cancelled due to Covid-19.  Plant hunters joined in from Orkney to Guernsey, from Anglesey to Norfolk, and from Donegal to south west Cork.  As expected, the milder south and west of Britain and Ireland had the highest numbers of species in flower – 86 on Jersey. This is less than the 2020 total of 115 species in Swanage and almost half the 2016 top total of 162 species recorded in Berkshire. Ellen Goddard of BSBI’s Events & Communications Committee has analysed this year’s results and compared them with those from previous years. She said “2021 has been a record-breaking year, with more species recorded in bloom and more lists submitted than ever before, but we are still seeing the same split of native vs non-native plants. We have also seen a change in the way people took part in the Hunt this year: with organised group hunts cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions, people have been going out on their own or in small family groups and support bubbles. This has led to a small increase (c5%) in the number of participants but a marked increase (45-50%) in total lists and records submitted. This is likely to have played a large part in the higher number of species recorded this year, but there was also a higher temperature anomaly than we saw in 2020. So, the Covid-19 restrictions may have influenced how people took part in the Hunt but the warmer weather in the period leading up to the Hunt could also have influenced the total number of species and the number of records we received.”

New nature experiment launched with BBC Music - University of Exeter A new experiment goes live today, investigating how people respond to different kinds of digital nature experience. The study is part of a new collaboration between the BBC and the University of Exeter, called ‘Soundscapes for Wellbeing’, aiming to connect audiences with the nature through creative TV, radio, and online programming. The experiment is exploring the emotions people feel when they engage with natural environments through varying digital formats, from rich visual scenes to immersive natural sound recordings and big budget wildlife documentaries. Award-winning film composer, Nainita Desai, and legendary sound recordist, Chris Watson, have both helped to create the study, which is being led by Wellcome Trust funded PhD student, Alex Smalley. Alex said: “We’ve assembled an amazing team to create this experiment, which fuses approaches from the arts, natural history, and science. We’re hoping as many people as possible will take part, and help us understand how best to bring virtual experiences of nature to those who can’t easily get outside.” The experiment is hosted online and open to anyone over the age of 18. It takes around 10 minutes to complete. You can take part at bbc.co.uk/soundscapesforwellbeing. As poor mental health continues to rise in the UK, early research suggests the COVID-19 pandemic could worsen this trend. Yet lockdowns across the country have led some to seek refuge in nature and reconnect with the natural world. Through special programming across the BBC, Soundscapes for Wellbeing is hoping to bring some of nature’s therapeutic potential to those audiences who are stuck at home.

Page 29 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts Litter provides habitat for diverse animal communities in rivers, study finds - University of Nottingham In a study of local rivers, experts at the University of Nottingham have discovered more invertebrates – animals without a backbone, such as insects and snails - living on litter than on rocks. In urban rivers where there are no better alternatives, litter provided the largest, most stable and complex habitat available for invertebrates to live on. The findings could have important implications for the management of urban rivers, including how river clean-up events are conducted. The research team, in the School of Geography, studied three local rivers; the River Leen, Black Brook, and Saffron Brook, in Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire by collecting samples of rocks and litter from the riverbeds to compare in their laboratory. The scientists found that the surfaces of the litter were inhabited by different and more diverse communities of invertebrates than those on rocks. Plastic, metal, fabric, and masonry samples consistently had the highest diversity, meanwhile, glass and rock samples were considerably less diverse than other material samples. They observed that flexible pieces of plastic, like plastic bags, were inhabited by the most diverse communities and speculated that the types of invertebrates they found on flexible plastic suggests it might mimic the structure of water plants. The study is the first of its kind to evaluate the role of litter as a riverine habitat and has been published in the journal Freshwater Biology.

Investigating impact of human activity on birds - Durham University Our scientists have shown where bird species would exist in the absence of human activity under research that could provide a new approach to setting conservation priorities. The researchers looked at how human activities like agriculture, deforestation, and the drainage of wetlands have shaped where bird species are found in Great Britain today. They used data on the geographical distributions of bird species alongside simulation models to predict where bird species would exist today if the effects of human activities on the landscape were removed. Golden Eagle at nest - Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com) In this scenario there were winners and losers among different bird species due to the impact of humans. Forty-two per cent of the 183 breeding bird species they looked at were more widely distributed today than they would be in a human-free world, particularly birds associated with farmland habitats. These species included the Turtle Dove and Grey Partridge, which benefit from open habitats created by farming.

Jobs and Employment Kickstart moves up a gear with over 120,000 jobs created so far and government making it even simpler for employers to join - Department for Work & Pensions More than 120,000 jobs for 16 to 24 year olds have now been created through the government’s flagship Kickstart Scheme, as ministers have urged more employers to get involved. The scheme, which has been underway since September, is helping to put young people who have been some of the hardest hit by the economic impact of the pandemic on the first rung of their career ladder. The start dates for these jobs vary but will all begin this year. The government will make it even simpler for employers of all sizes to benefit from joining the scheme by removing the limit requiring they create a minimum of 30 vacancies to apply directly. To ensure all job placements continue to be of a high quality, the government will continue to apply rigorous checks on training support and finances. Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Thérèse Coffey said: “Kickstart has moved up a gear and I encourage employers to join us and invest in the next generation of talent by joining our Kickstart scheme. By removing the threshold of a minimum 30 jobs for direct applications, we are making it even simpler to get involved. Now is the time to prepare for post-lockdown placements and employers will now have a choice to apply direct or through one of our 600 fantastic Kickstart gateways who may be locally connected or sector-specific providing that tailored support.”

Return of Seasonal Rangers for 2021 - Cairngorms National Park Seasonal rangers ben Newe (image: CNPA) Seasonal rangers will once again be ‘on patrol’ in the Cairngorms National Park this year ensuring everyone has an enjoyable time while staying safe and respecting the Park’s environment and communities. The Board of the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) agreed at an online meeting this morning (Friday 22 January) to finance a seasonal ranger service for 2021, supporting existing services during what is expected to be another busy visitor management season. The move creates nine new jobs with a further five ‘Kickstart’ Youth Placement opportunities for young people seeking a start in this type of career for which funding has been secured through a collective UK National Parks bid. A seasonal ranger service was established for the first time in 2020 in response to the high numbers of visitors coming to the National Park after the first lockdown was lifted and people were able to travel again. While most visitors did the right thing, there were issues in relation to fires, litter, human waste and traffic problems. Page 30 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts Government Announcement and Policy plus reactions Reported in the Telegraph: Boris Johnson’s flagship Environment Bill is to be delayed by at least six months, after ministers ran out of time to pass it in Parliament. - Telegraph A Defra blog explains the progress of The Environment Bill so far. Response from The Wildlife Trusts Craig Bennett, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts says: “News that the Government’s flagship Environment Bill will suffer yet more delays is deeply troubling. When he introduced the Bill, the Prime Minister said it was ‘the huge star of our legislative programme… a lodestar by which we will guide our country towards a cleaner, and greener future’. The fact that the Government plans to end the Parliamentary session over a year on without having delivered the ‘star’ of the programme will raise questions over its commitment to leaving the environment in a better state for the next generation. Recently, the Prime Minister explicitly committed to taking urgent action to put nature on a path to recovery by 2030 as part of the UN ‘Decade of Action’. But over a year into the decade, very little progress has been made. To make up for lost time, the Government must substantially ramp-up its environmental ambition. This must start with putting a legally-binding target to reverse nature’s decline by 2030 on the face of the Environment Bill when it returns, and proper funding for landscape recovery to deliver it.” RSPB's reaction to Environment Bill delay: Beccy Speight, the RSPB's Chief Executive, said: “The slow, stop-start nature of the Environment Bill’s passage does not help us take the rapid action needed to tackle the nature and climate emergency. Our only hope is that this delay is used to improve the Bill. Environmental groups including the RSPB have made a series of measured and sensible improvements, such as legally binding targets to turn the tide on the loss of nature, and these should now be seriously considered. These changes would help us get our own house in order at a time when the Prime Minister wants to show international leadership in the run-up to the key global biodiversity and climate summits later this year.”

The Wildlife Trusts explore legal challenge to Government decision to allow emergency use of neonicotinoid - The Wildlife Trusts Today The Wildlife Trusts’ lawyers have contacted the Environment Secretary, George Eustice to question his decision to allow the emergency use of the banned neonicotinoid Thiamethoxam for sugar beet. The Wildlife Trusts believe the action may have been unlawful and The Wildlife Trusts are planning a legal challenge to the decision unless Government can prove otherwise. In 2018 the UK Expert Committee on Pesticides refused a similar application because of unacceptable environmental risks.* The Wildlife Trusts contend that no new evidence has been provided to support the Government’s decision and therefore the ban should stay. Additionally, The Wildlife Trusts believe that the Environment Secretary has not proved that there is no alternative to using neonicotinoids; nor has he explained what action he is taking to ensure the emergency authorisation is not repeated indefinitely. The Wildlife Trusts are deeply concerned that the current derogation applies for three years and that further derogations could be allowed for a further block of three years. Craig Bennett, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts, says: “We are preparing to take legal action unless the Government can prove it acted lawfully. The Government refused a request for emergency authorisation in 2018 and we want to know what’s changed. Where’s the new evidence that it’s ok to use this extremely harmful pesticide? Using neonicotinoids not only threatens bees but is also extremely harmful to aquatic wildlife because the majority of the pesticide leaches into soil and then into waterways. Worse still, farmers are being recommended to use weedkiller to kill wildflowers in and around sugar beet crops in a misguided attempt to prevent harm to bees in the surrounding area. This is a double blow for nature.”

Land and Countryside Management A brighter future for Welsh rivers - Wildlife Trusts Wales Wildlife Trusts Wales welcomes the announcement of robust protection for our rivers and its wildlife After many years of campaigning Wildlife Trusts Wales welcomes the Welsh Government announcement today of the introduction of the Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution) (Wales) Regulations 2020. Our rivers in Wales have suffered from serious water pollution incidences caused by a minority of farmers in Wales. Wildlife Trusts Wales welcomes the announcement today to tighten regulation to stop bad practice which causes catastrophic damage to wildlife. For too long the farming industry has relied on voluntary measures that simply haven’t deterred the worst offenders. We acknowledge that the majority of farmers do protect watercourses. These new regulations should enable a level playing field for all farmers in Wales. Iolo Williams, BBC presenter and naturalist said: “This is great news for Welsh rivers and is long overdue. I wholeheartedly support any measures that will help improve the quality of Welsh rivers for wildlife and for people.” The main cause of the pollution is leaching or at times deliberate disposal of slurry (animal waste) into rivers. Slurry is a strong pollutant which removed oxygen from the water, killing fish and other wildlife such as aquatic insects. This can leave large stretches of rivers and streams devoid of life including some of Wales’ most iconic rivers such as the Wye and Teifi. It can take decades for rivers to recover following an incident. The new rules put agricultural best practice into legislation. This includes preventing farms in Wales from spreading slurry on their fields from mid-October to the start of February. This lessens the chance of it being washed into our rivers and streams and wreaking havoc on wildlife. Welsh Government have previously described the number of agricultural pollution incidents in Wales as an "embarrassment" for the country. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) stated that most of Wales major rivers are suffering from significant water pollution. It warned that time was running out to "avoid a catastrophic situation for Wales". Water pollution affects everyone in Wales. It is the public who pays for the clean-up through our water bills, as water companies spend millions of pounds removing agricultural pollution from our water.

Scientists lay out 10 golden rules for restoring forests - Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Tree planting is often portrayed as an easy answer to the climate crisis, but a new review led by RBG Kew and BGCI highlights the issues with large-scale tree planting Scientists have devised ten golden rules for reforestation around ‘right tree, right place’ principles, to maximise benefits for people and the planet Page 31 CJS Weekly®: 29 January 2021 Please remember to mention CJS® when responding to adverts The research is launched ahead of Kew’s first virtual global conference on reforestation, on 24-26 February 2021 convening voices on all sides of this topic from the business, science, policy, horticulture and environmental sectors Scientists from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) and Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) have set out ten ‘golden rules’ for reforestation, published today in an open-access article in the leading journal Global Change Biology. These rules have been set by the experts in response to the damage some large-scale tree planting schemes are seen to be inflicting on the environment and to provide nature-based solutions to protect and restore global forests. The list highlights how forests can be restored with the simultaneous triple benefit of maximising carbon capture to mitigate global warming, recovering ecosystems, and helping people’s livelihoods. Dr Kate Hardwick, Conservation Partnership Coordinator at RBG Kew and a lead author of the paper says: “Tree planting now dominates political and popular agendas and is often presented as an easy answer to the climate crisis, as well as a way for corporate companies to mitigate their carbon emissions, but sadly, it isn’t as simple as that. When people plant the wrong trees in the wrong place, it can cause considerably more damage than benefits, failing to help people or nature. Our paper sets out to look at these issues and create a framework for people, businesses and policymakers to use for future reforestation projects that can aid both people and the environment.”

Ecology and Biodiversity Is Cornwall’s nature in a state? - Cornwall Wildlife Trust With global leaders headed to Cornwall this year for the G7 summit to consider the climate crisis and other global environmental issues, what can we do at a local level to contribute towards these major challenges? Cornwall is famed across the world for its natural beauty, but a shocking new report has found that much of our local wildlife is in decline. When we work together we can turn the fortunes of species around, for example the return of choughs to Cornwall (image by Pete Warman) In 2019 the national State of Nature report gave the worrying news that since 1970, 41% of species have declined in abundance across the UK. This led to talk of an ‘ecological emergency’ and calls for it to be tackled alongside the climate crisis. Cornwall Wildlife Trust wanted to know if the same was true here in Cornwall, so teamed up with Cornwall Council and the University of Exeter and analysed a huge volume of local species and habitat data collected largely by volunteer ‘citizen scientists’. The resultant State of Nature Cornwall 2020 report shows that many species groups are in trouble; nearly half of terrestrial mammals are now found in fewer places in Cornwall than in the 1980s and nearly half of our breeding birds are in serious decline. Whilst the report paints a generally gloomy picture, it does include some good news, detailing where concentrated conservation efforts have brought species back from the brink of local extinction. Cheryl Marriott, Head of Conservation at Cornwall Wildlife Trust commented on the report, ‘There are parts that make for difficult reading; Cornwall’s wildlife is in a bad way and continued species decline will inevitably lead to local extinctions. But more positively, we did find that public appreciation of wildlife has surged during lockdown and we know from our work that together we can make a difference and bring nature back. That gives me hope we can still turn the situation around’. The findings will be used by Cornwall Council in the Local Nature Recovery pilot they are delivering as one of only 5 national projects testing this new approach for nature, as set out in the Environment Bill. Cllr Rob Nolan, Cornwall Council Portfolio holder for Environment and Public Protection explains: 'Understanding how wildlife is faring is vital in our plans for nature recovery. Humans are very much part of the wider ecosystem and this report helps us see the links between people and nature, one and all! The findings will help us to prioritise the places and species in greatest need of action here in Cornwall.'

Innovative scheme to protect newts and promote sustainable development is rolled out across Lancashire - Natural England Natural England has launched a new scheme in Lancashire to help conserve local populations of great crested newts whilst promoting sustainable development. Great crested newts have seen dramatic declines in their populations over the last 60 years despite being legally protected. The new ‘District Level Licensing’ scheme (DLL) better protects this orange-bellied amphibian by using conservation payments from developers to create new ponds in locations that will benefit the species. The scheme also benefits local people and authorities by avoiding costly delays for developers, helping to ensure homes are built and local authorities can deliver their plans. The scheme will create a network of ponds providing vital habitat for our biggest native newt, helping to join up sometimes isolated populations and helping them to thrive. Natural England, in partnership with Lancashire Wildlife Trust, will invest developer payments not only into creating or restoring new ponds but also taking care of and monitoring the ponds too, for the long term. Previously, developers had to apply for a mitigation licence before building on or around the places where newts live. Seasonal restrictions on work in places where the newts were present led to delays and uncertainty over the costs and scheduling of planned development. This new ‘landscape scale’ licensing approach is better for both developers and newts. It provides a faster and more straightforward process than the traditional approach to licensing while helping to provide more homes for newts.

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Please note: Opportunities are advertised in CJS Weekly for one week only. Details appear in CJS Weekly: Existing Opportunities in subsequent weeks. Online subscribers have access to several months of back issues. CJS is printed in- house using 100% recycled paper. Details believed correct but given without prejudice. Ends. Page 32