Kernow Conservation - Volunteers

What we do

Our activities broadly fall into three main areas: habitat restoration & management, species reintroductions, and biodiversity monitoring. 

Habitat Restoration & Management 

Over time, much of Cornwall’s natural habitat has become degraded and fragmented due to human activity. Proactive conservation work is needed to restore and connect habitats, protect species, and prevent further biodiversity loss.  The control and removal of invasive species and the restoring of native species are key priorities in this area, in addition to habitat regeneration through disturbance, such as willow scrub removal or grassland management activities.  Our habitat work also provides opportunities for volunteers to get involved and gain hands-on experience in conservation.

Species Reintroductions

Many species have been lost entirely from Cornwall, and yet more are living in small populations which have become isolated through habitat loss and fragmentation, thereby increasing their risk of extinction.  In response to this, conservationists are searching for innovative, more effective methods of species conservation. One such method is the translocation or reintroduction of species into formerly occupied habitat. Species reintroductions involve strict guidelines and licensing to ensure that current best practice is followed and up-to-date scientific techniques are used.

Biodiversity monitoring 

Understanding current and historic species presence and distribution is a key component informing conservation action.  Through tried-and-tested traditional techniques involving field and identification skills, coupled with modern technology such as remote camera traps, digital bat detectors, and aerial drone imagery, we help to monitor the biodiversity in Cornwall, assessing how species are responding to man-made change and identifying priority areas for protection and enhancement.

Volunteer with us

Volunteering is a great way to give back to nature, improve your mental health, get involved with the local community, learn new skills, and learn more about conservation in Cornwall. Whether it’s one time or long-term, we welcome everyone who’d like to get involved and become part of the movement to protect and conserve Cornwall’s biodiversity. We strive to be inclusive and would like anyone who wants to take part to have the ability to do so. We have a variety of PPE and other gear thanks to the University of Exeter Alumni Fund. If you’re in need of any gear specifically, please inquire with us, and we would be happy to lend it for the duration of the event, if we have it. 

Email: kernowconservation@gmail.com