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Volunteering at New Forest Northern Commons

Volunteers 'tree popping' at Hale Common, New Forest, Hampshire
Volunteers 'tree popping' at Hale Common, New Forest | © National Trust Images/Dave Johnson

Our team of volunteers at the New Forest Northern Commons undertake important work in countryside management. This work helps to protect declining habitats which in turn support a rich variety of wildlife. Discover the work of our volunteers and find out how you can get involved in volunteering opportunities at the New Forest.

Volunteers at the New Forest Northern Commons

There are plenty of opportunities for volunteering across the New Forest Northern Commons.

Our conservation volunteers meet to undertake practical countryside management tasks across the National Trust Commons and Foxbury.

Land management in the winter

During the autumn and winter this often involves gorse cutting and burning, rhododendron removal, control of pine and birch saplings, holly cutting and tree planting in Foxbury.

Land management in the summer

Throughout the warmer months we pull non-native plant species such as Himalayan balsam with our neighbouring land owners in the New Forest, and remove common ragwort. We also maintain our tree plantations in Foxbury.

In the spring and summer, our species surveyors undertake annual surveys of an array of wildlife including heathland flora, breeding birds, butterflies and moths, and reptiles.

Become a community ranger

If you’re local to a National Trust common and walk here regularly, why not become a community ranger?

This involves helping the team to keep an eye on the commons by keeping them tidy of litter whilst out on your regular walking route. By doing so, you’ll help to keep nature enjoyable and habitable for people and wildlife.

Why join us?

There are lots of reasons to join us; making the move to volunteer could be the best decision you ever make.

  • Become part of a friendly and dedicated team
  • Meet people from all walks of life and forge new friendships
  • Utilise your existing skills and learn new ones
  • Strengthen your CV and help to develop your career
  • Enjoy the great outdoors
  • Learn about the history of this special place.

Get in touch about volunteering at the New Forest Northern Commons

Volunteering opportunities currently available at the New Forest Northern Commons and nearby National Trust properties are listed on the website below. Just type in your location or the property name and the roles currently being recruited for will be displayed.

You can also contact us directly by emailing mottisfont@nationaltrust.org.uk for further information.

Thank you

Thank you to all our volunteers who give their time to support the National Trust in many different roles.

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