Epping Forest Conservation Volunteers

Over the last 47 years The Epping Forest Conservation Volunteers (EFCV) have completed more than 2000 conservation tasks, leaving behind a legacy of positive impressions across the Forest.

On a crisp, bright, Tuesday in January the volunteers could be found at North Long Hills energetically clearing holly and other scrub to ward off the chill and open-up woodland to improve conditions for the veteran beech, oak, and hornbeam.

Heather, a dab hand with a bow saw, pauses to explain that she joined in 2010 and enjoys combining socialising with a pleasant day out in Epping Forest. But it’s the satisfaction of seeing what has been achieved on each task that keeps her coming back.

Dan, a relative newbie to the EFCV, is already hooked. “it’s light exercise, in one of the most beautiful places in London, and it helps maintain a site of immense natural value… It adds a real sense of meaning and purpose to spending time outdoors.”

We also met Andy, attending for the very first time after learnt about EFCV via the City of London Epping Forest Instagram account. (@coleppingforest) He explained that it was important to volunteer because he takes “a lot of enjoyment from the Forest, and this is my way of showing my appreciation. By giving a little time and effort back, it’s investing in our environment and community.”

Andy’s employer offers a scheme whereby employees can use paid leave to get involved in community volunteering, and joining the EFCV was just the thing to put this time to good use. At the end of the task, he remarked, “Everyone has been friendly, and you get a real sense of dedication from the group.”

As a new volunteer, Andy didn’t need to bring anything beyond appropriate shoes and clothes, as all tools and training were provided. This is thanks to the diligent work of the EFCV committee, who organize tasks, purchase and maintain tools, and produce regular newsletters and annual reports.

When asked, each volunteer had a different favourite task, be it pollarding, willow coppicing, holly bashing, or pond work. However, all agreed that the opportunity to discover new areas of the forest was a wonderful benefit of volunteering.

Tasks usually take place every Sunday and the second Tuesday of the month. Each involves close coordination with Corporation of London Conservation Team to ensure they support the overarching management plan.

To find out more about the Epping Forest Conservation Volunteers, please visit their website or contact Spencer Cleminson