Volunteering opportunities

Join us for our first annual bird survey at Drumbrae on Saturday 30 May, from 7-10am. We will be splitting into small groups to listen and look for bird species in some different areas across Drumbrae. The survey will involve walking to a survey location and remaining at that location for a set period of time and recording what species you see and hear. You can also record any species seen or heard while walking to and from the survey locations.

This event is suitable for those with bird identification skills. You don't need to be an expert to take part, but this event is not suitable for a complete beginner.

Please note if the weather forecast is poor, then it may be moved to the following day Sunday 31 May.

If you would like to come along, please make sure you register using the form below. 

Important Info 

• You must be 16 years old or over to volunteer.
• Volunteers should bring drinking water and snacks.
• You should wear clothes suitable for the forecasted weather, have sturdy footwear, bring something to sit on and binoculars. You are welcome to bring any bird ID books, apps or resources with you. 
• Places are limited and spaces must be booked in advance.  If the event is over-subscribed we will operate a wait list.
• Volunteers are required to fill in a registration form to help us keep everyone safe. 
• Travel expenses will be reimbursed up to a maximum of £35. 
• The Community Ranger will be in touch with volunteers to confirm the details the week before the volunteer event.
• Please note we may take photographs/ videos during volunteering activities. If you do not wish to be photographed / filmed your wishes will be respected.

Accessibility Information  

• The activity level will be easy / moderate.
• Most survey locations will involve walking along grassy paths and uneven terrain. It will involve walking uphill and downhill.
• We will be working in small groups and most people won't know each other. 
• Volunteers need to be able to get to the meeting place, Cocksburn Woods for 7am. A google pin to the meeting point is here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/H93GP6uFJhZPyaBs7
• Please note there is no public transport to Sheriffmuir Road.
• Parking is available at Cocksburn Woods.
• There are no toilets on site. The closest public toilets are in Bridge of Allan. 
• If you are not able to submit the online registration form, an alternative format can be provided. Please contact the Community Ranger.
• Please get in touch with the Community Ranger if you have any questions or accessibility requirements: Community.Ranger@ed.ac.uk 

Important Info 

• You don’t need any specific skills or previous experience and we will provide the tools, work gloves and survey equipment.
• You must be 16 years old or over to volunteer.
• Volunteers should bring drinking water and packed lunch.
• If you have access to a smart phone to complete the tree monitoring online survey, please bring it along with you. If not, paper copies can be provided.
• You should wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty, have sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing for the weather. (e.g. waterproofs, sun hat, sun screen.)
• Please note we will limit people to attending one day to allow more people the opportunity to be involved. If there are spaces nearer the time, then these will be made available for people to attend both days.
• Volunteers are required to fill in a registration form to help us keep everyone safe. 
• Travel expenses will be reimbursed up to a maximum of £35. 
• The Community Ranger will be in touch with volunteers to confirm the details the week before the volunteer day. 

Accessibility Information  

• The activity level will be easy / moderate.  Everyone can work on tasks that they are comfortable with, and we will have regular breaks.
• We will be working in small groups and most people won't know each other.  
• Please note there is no public transport to Sheriffmuir Road. We encourage car sharing and will try to facilitate lifts from Bridge of Allan.
• Parking is available at Cockburn Woods and Sheriffmuir Road. 
• There are no toilets on site. The closest public toilets are in Bridge of Allan. 
• If you are not able to submit the online registration form, an alternative format can be provided. Please contact the Community Ranger.
• Please get in touch with the Community Ranger (Community.Ranger@ed.ac.uk) if you have any questions or accessibility requirements.