WHAT IS GRASS ROOTS CONSERVATION GROUP?

Grass Roots Conservation Group is a voluntary group which undertakes practical conservation projects such as tree planting, woodland management, pond construction, fencing, dry stone walling and many other activities to enhance the habitats and landscape of Northern Ireland.

Anyone wanting to join is most welcome. The annual membership fee is £4, which covers the cost of mailing information to members. However, you are welcome to take part in some of our activities before you have become a paid-up member. Joining Grass Roots offers lots of scope for anyone who wants to get out and see different parts of Northern Ireland, learn new skills, improve the environment and make new friends.

WHAT HAPPENS ON A TYPICAL DAY?

Work takes place on Sundays and some Saturdays, starting at 10.00 am at the work site. Each project is led by an experienced leader who will explain the reasons for the work, safety procedures and the use of all tools and equipment at the start of the day.
During the day the leader will demonstrate different aspects of the work as they arise and see that everyone is clear about what is to be done.

Grass Roots provides all relevant tools and equipment and we have full insurance cover for all who are involved.

Generally we stop for lunch around 1.00 pm and take lunch on site.
Most days finish between 3.30 and 4.00 pm.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

No previous experience is required. Come along and you will learn on the day.

WHO TO CONTACT AND HOW TO GET THERE

Grass Roots generally uses private cars to get to the work site. Many of our members are prepared to give lifts, so even if you do not have your own transport there should be no problem organising somebody to collect you and leave you home at the end of the day. Members who use their cars are given a mileage rate to cover their petrol costs. Transport arrangements are co-ordinated by the Secretary.

If you would like to go on one of our projects phone the Secretary early in the week before the project you want to go on.

WHAT TO BRING

Please come with working clothes, rain proofs, boots or wellies. Also bring a packed lunch and something to drink.

DRIVER INSURANCE

It is recommended that anyone who helps transport volunteers should inform their car insurance company that they are doing this. This is only a precaution and should not have any affect on the cost of the premium. If you are in any doubt or have any concerns contact Grass Roots Secretary.

WHAT IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A WHOLE DAY TO SPARE?

All our work days are organised as one-day events but if you are only able to come for a morning or afternoon you are still most welcome. If you have your own transport you can come and go to suit yourself, or alternatively we may still be able to arrange transport depending on who else is going and where the site is.

We strongly recommend you contact the Secretary even if you plan to use your own transport as the day may have been cancelled or the site changed.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

The annual membership fee for Grass Roots is just £4 and this is to cover the postage cost of sending information out to members. Payment is due from 1 January each year and donations are also very welcome.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO MORE?

Grass Roots is always looking for members who would be interested in becoming more involved in running the group and perhaps joining the committee. If you would be interested in joining the committee or have a particular interest in a specific role, email Grass Roots to find out more about what is involved.

GRASS ROOTS CHILD AND YOUNG PERSON PROTECTION POLICY

Grass Roots has a Policy covering all aspects of the group's work with children and young people, to ensure a safe and happy working environment for everyone. Copies of our policies are available on this website, or on request. Contact the Secretary for a copy.

LOOKING FOR MORE VOLUNTEERS

We are always looking for additional members. Do you know anyone who would be interested in joining Grass Roots? Or do you know anywhere you could put up one of our posters, perhaps where you work or your local library?