Volunteer with Alder & Otter
Roll your sleeves up. Get in the river. Make something happen.
Why volunteer?
Our volunteers do the work that professional teams alone cannot cover. They carry out river surveys, remove invasive species, monitor water quality at hundreds of sites each month, support school field days, and maintain the habitats we have restored. None of this is symbolic: it goes directly into the ecological record and onto the desks of regulators. We currently have 8,000 trained volunteers across the UK. We would like more.
Make a measurable difference
Your survey data goes to the Environment Agency. Your restoration work is mapped and monitored. You will see the results of what you do.
Full training provided
We train every volunteer before they go out alone. River safety, species identification, sampling methodology, and data logging are all covered at induction.
“I have been surveying the River Lugg for otter signs every six weeks for four years. The first year I found almost nothing. Last spring I counted spraint at eleven sites. That shift is documented. We caused it.”
Marcus Doherty
Otter survey volunteer, Herefordshire
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common queries about volunteering with us.
We offer a variety of roles, from hands-on conservation work to community engagement and educational projects. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, administrative tasks, or working with children, there’s likely a role that suits your skills and interests.
We understand that everyone’s time is precious. You can choose to volunteer for a few hours a month or commit more regularly, depending on your availability and the needs of our projects.
No, previous experience is not required. We provide training and support to ensure you feel confident in your role. Your enthusiasm and willingness to learn are what matter most.
Depending on the activity, it’s best to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. We recommend bringing water, snacks, and any personal items you may need for the day. We will provide any necessary tools or materials.
You can easily sign up via our website. Just fill in the volunteer form, and we’ll be in touch with the next steps. We look forward to having you on board!
Still have questions?
If there’s anything else on your mind, please reach out. We’re happy to provide further information or clarify any doubts you may have about volunteering with us. Your interest means a lot to us!
Ready to apply?
We match volunteers to programmes and locations based on availability and interest. Fill in our short expression-of-interest form and we will be in touch within five working days to discuss next steps.