Conserving the conservationists

2 June 2016

The ins and outs of keeping conservation volunteers safe in the field were covered at a one-day workshop in Stratford this week.

“At the end of the day, our volunteers are the key to all our efforts to protect and enhance our native plants and animals and their special places,” says Leigh Honnor, Co-ordinator of Wild for Taranaki, the regional conservation umbrella group that organised the workshop.

“So it’s vital to keep our people safe when they’re out in what can be rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions.”

Nineteen people from 12 community groups attended the workshop, which was run by national not-for-profit group Conservation Volunteers NZ.

“Safety management has become a big responsibility, and it can be a challenge for volunteer-based community groups,” says Ms Honnor. “Wild for Taranaki and its member groups are committed to best practice, and the workshop was an ideal opportunity for everyone to be aware of their health and safety responsibilities, and how to go about fulfilling them.”

Workshop topics included health and safety legislation, policy and implementation guidelines, risk management strategies, safety inductions and briefings, and documentation.

“It was a valuable session, with much useful and practical advice and information for those taking part. Everyone in their groups will benefit, and ultimately the Taranaki environment will as well,” says Ms Honnor.

Wild for Taranaki is the identity of the Taranaki Biodiversity Trust, whose members include 27 community groups, organisations and agencies involved on conservation work in the region. The Taranaki Regional Council is a core funder and provides administrative support. Membership of the Trust is open to groups, and individuals can become friends of the organisation. Seewww.wildfortaranaki.nz or Wild for Taranaki on Facebook for more information.

Conservation Volunteers NZ is an independent charitable trust with extensive experience in safety management in conservation. It has developed an ‘In Safe Hands’ toolkit which was the basis of this week’s workshop. See conservationvolunteers.co.nz for more information.

ENDS

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