Magnificent Meadows Volunteer 2026 (Hampshire)

Magnificent Meadows Volunteer 2026 (Hampshire)

Meadows and species-rich grasslands play a vital role in fostering a thriving countryside and supporting diverse ecosystems. Effective meadow management is therefore key to preserving biodiversity and combating the climate crisis. By recognising the significance of meadows in ecological balance and sustainability, we can work towards a more resilient and harmonious environment for future generations.

CPRE Hampshire are working to rejuvenate the land and bring nature back to life. A series of small forgotten chalk grassland meadows are located on the outskirts of the South Downs National Park. Nestled between St Catherine's Hill and Magdalen Hill Down, these are both designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

With care and support, the Bar End Meadows can thrive again. We're recruiting a team of volunteers to help us:

• Improve biodiversity and support wildflowers to flourish
• Create a tranquil space for residents to enjoy the mental health benefits of a thriving countryside
• Build a unique space for children to discover and explore nature; cultivate hay to support local livestock grazing nearby
• Connect areas in multiple ownership with help from local people

We are looking for volunteers over August and September to volunteer once a week. There will also be an initial day's training in techniques and site safety, delivered by an ecologist specialising in traditional meadow management. Sessions will be scheduled to suit the majority of people's availability.

Can you help us to restore these rare habitats and bring back our much loved meadows?

Volunteer role

Magnificent Meadows Volunteer 2026

Volunteer manager

Volunteer Coordinator

Where you will be based

Community

Why we want you

We're looking to build a team of volunteers for year two of our Hampshire Magnificent Meadows project - connecting local people with our special grasslands.

Our project aims to enhance the quality of the landscape (for people, wildlife and smallholder farmers), as well as grow local community engagement and support for CPRE.

You'll join a group of enthusiastic volunteers helping to carry out traditional management such as scything, making hay by hand and gathering seed to enhance new meadows. There may also be surveying and general conservation tasks to help restore and monitor the wildlife and landscape value on the project grassland sites.

By volunteering with us under expert local instruction, you can make a real difference to the local countryside and be part of a friendly and passionate charity.

What you will be doing

• Practical, hands on tasks e.g. Austrian scything, raking, box baling hay
• Carry out tasks under the instruction of a local meadows expert
• Monitoring and surveying chalk grassland extent
• Advocating for meadows and their multiple benefits
• Volunteering alongside others as part of a team
• Representing CPRE on the ground to the public and passers by

The skills you need

• A keen interest in environmental issues and learning about the countryside
• No prior experience needed, volunteers will be given full training
• The ability to undertake moderate physical activity
• Willingness to follow health and safety guidance, including use of tools and personal protective equipment
• A flexible approach and a willingness to give things a go
• Friendly and helpful attitude
• Comfortable to carry out tasks independently and as part of a team
• A flexible approach to volunteering availability as tasks will be on various days/times
• Ability to make your own way to and from the task site

What's in it for you

• Use your enthusiasm to contribute to the success of our charity and make a positive difference to the countryside
• Meet like minded people and enjoy being part of a team
• Raise the profile of our meadow wildlife
• Enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience
• We will provide you with relevant instruction and supervision around scything, hay making and meadow management to undertake this role
• We'll support you to develop and be safe in your volunteering role and provide you with all relevant health and safety information
• We'll give you a reference for your future work or volunteering
• Get involved with social events and workshops on a local level (online and face to face), with access to our online national resources and webinars
• Option to attend CPRE's national online volunteer induction session

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