We have now held our first 2 volunteer training days. In wonderful sunshine our new volunteers were given an introduction to geology and ecology of kettle hole ponds before visiting a pond to try out the various techniques needed to complete our survey forms.
There are still spaces left on our next 2 training days:
Sunday 14th April – Credenhill Village Hall
Saturday 11th May – Pembridge Village Hall
Morning – Indoor Session:
- Introduction to the Ice Age in Herefordshire and the landforms it left behind
- Introduction to Pond Ecology
- Introduction to field survey techniques for Ecology and for Geology
Afternoon Session:
- Practical demonstration and chance to have a go at doing Geological recording, substrate core samples using augers, GPS recording of water levels and water quality testing.
- Practical demonstration of Ecological recording techniques, habitat mapping, dipping for invertebrates.
No previous experience of ecology or geology is necessary, full training in the use of GPS, water quality meters and pond survey techniques will be given. The aim of the training is to provide volunteers with the skills necessary to complete pond surveys to collect data for the Ice Age Ponds project and help focus our more detailed investigations.
Training lasts from 10.00am – 4.00pm and all equipment, plus hot drinks and biscuits will be provided. You will just need to bring suitable outdoor clothing and lunch. These training sessions are all free but places are limited and booking is essential. To book your place please email Project Officer Beth Andrews on e.andrews@worc.ac.uk.
