Our native Eel Angela Angela is critically endangered. We are working with partners including Thames21 and ZSL to help remove barriers to their passage into the top of the River Lea, but we need help to survey the barriers before we can do this. 

The role:  

• Following a prescribed survey methodology to assess barriers such as weirs, culverts and sluice gates. The assessment method looks at various factors that would affect Eel passage, such as flow of water, slope and climbing material present. This important role will help us understand how to enable Eels to travel higher up the River Lea to complete their lifecycle. 

Role location:  
Lea Valley regional park. And surrounding area – Exact locations can be discussed for best fit. Along the River Lea and its tributaries. 

Role responsibilities: 

• Adhere to the prescribed methodology to access barriers to Eels
• Carefully record the information on an online survey form
• Take relevant pictures to document the barriers
• Follow instructions to access the correct barriers
• Act as an ambassador for Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust 

 Skills and experience you will need: 

• Confident in following instructions and recording answers correctly
• Ability to download and use survey123 in the field
• Willingness to work as part of a team
• Willingness to work in accordance with all relevant Trust policies and procedures including Health & Safety, Safeguarding and Data Protection. 

Reasons to volunteer with the Trust 

• Provide vital support for the Trust by donating your time and experience
• Opportunity to develop your skills and confidence
• Gain valuable survey experience
• Join a fun and friendly team to make a difference
• Get outside and explore a new area 

Volunteer training and support 

• In person training on barrier survey methodology
• Online training on Eel ecology and the barrier survey methodology
• Reasonable travel expenses can be claimed with prior arrangement 

Anticipated time commitment: 

• flexible – time commitment multiple options available to suit volunteers
• 1 hour online training, 1 in person training session and a minimum of one survey session after training.
• Volunteers will need to work in at least a pair, so times chosen to suit both
• Surveys can take place until the end of September