Wanted! Volunteer Marine Wardens

Want to know your blenny from your goby or your edible from your shore crab? How about understanding more about Marine Protected Areas and the differences between European and National Marine Sites? Now Dorset Wildlife Trust is offering the chance to find out more about marine biology and conservation while volunteering at the Fine Foundation Marine Centre, Kimmeridge Bay.

The Volunteer Marine Wardens

Volunteer Marine Wardens are being recruited to assist the Dorset Wildlife Trust team in running the Marine Centre, welcoming visitors, leading public events, promoting the seashore code and working alongside a committed and friendly team. Experience and skills are acquired ‘on the job’ through mentoring and enhanced with regular training and practical activities out on the shore and through a training and events programme. A variety of related topics develop the wardens’ knowledge and confidence in delivering Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Living Seas Vision.

7 years safeguarding the Reserve

The Kimmeridge Marine Wardens have been helping to safeguard the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve for seven years, through the education and awareness programme on the beach during the summer months. The Wardens are often seen exchanging ‘fish hook’ crab lines for wildlife-friendly net bags and adding value to the visitors’ day by pointing out the wonderful array of marine life out on the shore.

Julie Hatcher, Marine Awareness Officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “Our Marine Wardens not only protect the wildlife around the Bay but do a fantastic job of passing on their enthusiasm to the many members of the public who enjoy the beach at Kimmeridge. If you would like to spend time in one of the most beautiful parts of Dorset’s coast while helping its internationally recognised wildlife, come and join us!”

How to get involved

Volunteer Marine Wardens must be over 18, have their own transport and be able to commit to just two days per month. For more information, please contact Julie Hatcher on 01929 481044 or email kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk by Monday 31st January.

Notes to Editor

For more information please contact Julie Hatcher at Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01929 481044.
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About Dorset Wildlife Trust www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Dorset Wildlife Trust was founded in 1961 to protect the wildlife and natural habitats of the county and now has over 25,000 members and manages over 40 nature reserves. Most are open daily and there are visitor centres providing a wealth of wildlife information at Brooklands Farm, Lorton Meadows, Kingcombe Meadows and Brownsea Island Nature Reserves, The Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and the Urban Wildlife Centre at Upton Heath Nature Reserve.

The largest voluntary nature conservation organisation in Dorset, DWT plays a key role in dealing with local environmental issues. It leads the way in establishing the practices of sustainable development and engaging new audiences in conservation, particularly in the urban areas.

About the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve (PMWR)
The PMWR is the longest established voluntary marine nature reserve in the UK and has been running for over 30 years. It is managed by a Committee of local stakeholders such as landowners, conservation organisations, commercial fishermen, the local community and recreational users. Day to day management of the reserve is carried out by Dorset Wildlife Trust which also owns the Fine Foundation Marine Centre on the water front at Kimmeridge Bay, right in the heart of the reserve.

Kimmeridge - home to the
Kimmeridge Marine Wardens