Econet undertakes tasks relating to the conservation of the natural environment in public open spaces and other sites in and around Reading.

Activities include coppicing, hedge planting, hedge laying, scrub clearance, wild flower planting and sowing, control of non native species, footpath clearance and willow harvesting.

Our midweek group, CROW (Conserve Reading on Wednesdays), undertakes tasks most Wednesdays - as well as other days when the need arises.

Among the sites we regularly visit are:

 

Brookfields School, Tilehurst

Clayfield Copse, Caversham

Hosehill Nature Reserve, Theale

Maiden Erlegh Nature Reserve

Paices Wood, Aldermaston

In addition we work closely with a number of other local groups on whose behalf we run tasks, mostly at weekends.

Econet is part of the BTCV's Community Group Network and is supported by Reading Borough Council.

For Individuals
Whether you would like to work at the site associated with one of the 'Friends of' groups or join CROW on their midweek outings, whether you are able to come regularly or can only make the occasional task, you will be welcome.

No experience is necessary, we'll provide training along with tools and other equipment including gloves. However please wear suitable clothing and for the midweek team, bring a packed lunch - they'll provide tea and coffee.

There's no membership fee.

We hope you will enjoy yourself while participating in and learning about the conservation of the natural environment.

For details of our current activities and contact details, see our  Programme. For further information about the other local groups with whom we work, see  Associated Groups.

Econet has both Public Liability and Personal Accident Insurance cover for volunteers participating in its tasks. (The sums provided by the Personal Accident Insurance are limited and you may wish to obtain your own cover. For details of the cover provided, please contact the Treasurer.)

For Organisations
We undertake tasks for Reading Borough Council, Earley Town Council and West Berkshire Council as well as for schools and other organisations, and also participate in tasks organised by BTCV and BBOWT.

If your organisation has a task which relates to or aims to encourage an interest in the natural environment, please contact us. Whether it is a once off activity or ongoing either on an occasional or regular basis, we will consider it. Even if we are unable to help, we may be able to suggest others who can.

(Please note: We may make a modest charge for the work we undertake to help cover our costs.)

Supported by

www.reading.gov.uk