Posted on Thursday 17th July 2025
Structures Team volunteering with Staffordshire County Council’s countryside teams at Chasewater Country Park.
Staff from Amey, Staffordshire County Council’s Highways partner, recently rolled up their sleeves for two dedicated volunteer days at Chasewater Country Park.
Among the volunteers was Mark Spence, a Civil Engineer with Amey, who regularly works on the Chasewater dam overseeing reservoir monitoring and maintenance.
Mark said:
“Working alongside Staffordshire County Council’s countryside team at Chasewater was a brilliant experience.
“It is a unique and valuable site for both wildlife and people. We are proud to support in its upkeep, and we look forward to returning soon.”
On the first day, volunteers focused on clearing overgrown pathways to make the park safer and more accessible for all visitors.
Trimming back overhanging branches also allows more light to reach the woodland floor, which helps to promote the growth of ground flora and wildflowers and enhances the park’s natural beauty.
The second day focused on heathland management with teams tackling invasive bracken to preserve the rare and diverse plants that make Chasewater such a special place.
Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
“Our country parks are some of Staffordshire’s greatest natural assets, and it’s fantastic to see organisations like our highways partners, Amey, giving their time to help care for them.
“Volunteering days like these make a real difference not just to the landscape but to the people who enjoy it. We’re proud to work together to protect places like Chasewater for future generations to enjoy.
“If you have any time to help out at our country parks, please get in touch. With the summer holidays coming up, volunteering would be fantastic opportunity for young people to build their skills and confidence.”
Chasewater is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognised for its exceptional water quality, rare aquatic plants, wet and dry lowland heath and wetland habitats, which support nationally important birdlife and other species.
Organisations interested in giving back to nature through volunteer days at Staffordshire’s stunning country parks are encouraged to get in touch by emailing countrysidevolunteers@staffordshire.gov.uk.
For the latest volunteer opportunities, visit Countryside Volunteers - Staffordshire County Council.