IWA Lichfield Branch has been busy this winter, cutting back the offside vegetation in its area.
Starting at Willington, members worked their way along the Trent & Mersey Canal to Fradley Junction and had a little time left over to do some ‘spot’ trimming on the northern reaches of the Coventry Canal.
The offside vegetation operation began five years ago when IWA Lichfield Branch members got together with their local Canal & River Trust office with the idea of a joint venture.
They begin each winter in October, and work stops at the end of February when the wildlife begins nesting. CRT supplies the equipment and the training for the two workboats – a motor and a hopper/butty. IWA Lichfield’s volunteers have this winter amassed more than 1600 hours.
Volunteer co-ordinator Neil Barnett said: “It’s a great way to get out in the fresh air and get some exercise too. You work within your physical capabilities in that you do as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. The best aspect of it is the camaraderie and banter.”
There are also other volunteering opportunities throughout the year for outdoor activities and helping with the branch’s general running.
For more information, please get in touch at [email protected]
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