As the Purbeck Natural History Forum (PNHF) continues to grow, so does the range of surveys we are involved in, as well as the diversity of skills, knowledge, and passions within our network. Much of the survey work we carry out is embedded within Interest Groups such as the Dragonfly and Damselfly Recording Group, Aquatic Invertebrate Group, Bryophyte Group, and NT Botany Group (just to mention a few!)
These informal groups were created to bring together members with shared interests and to streamline communication around training sessions and survey events. Interest Groups provide a space for discussion, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration on both formal and informal projects.
Members of the Purbeck Heaths NNR Monitoring group meeting up for their first survey earlier this year
Why Join an Interest Group?
Joining a group is the easiest way to:
- Stay up to date on training and events within the group
- Connect with others who share your ecological interests
- Share findings, questions, ideas, and resources
- Collaborate on fieldwork, surveys, or talks
- Contribute to a community of learning and practical conservation monitoring
Each group is independently led by a volunteer or a representative of one of the PNHF’s stakeholders. Surveys are typically coordinated by someone with detailed knowledge of the sites and methods, making it a great way to learn and build your skills.
Communication takes place through the group’s Notice Board. Once you are signed up, you will receive an email notification whenever there’s an update or new event. Not all groups share their events on the shared calendar, so we generally recommend you joining those groups of your interest to stay informed.
Registration is simple, free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. To see the full list of Interest Groups, visit the Groups page on our website and scroll down. To register, simply click the “Join Group” button for the group you’ are interested in.
Joining our surveys and events is a great way to enhance and expand your knowledge and skills
The Independent Monitoring Group: Flexibility in the Field
One of our newest initiatives is the Independent Monitoring Group, perfect for surveyors who want to contribute to monitoring efforts in the Purbeck Heaths NNR in a more flexible and self-directed way.
Rather than joining scheduled group surveys, members of this group can take on survey tasks independently, often solo or in small teams. It is ideal for:
- People with irregular schedules
- Those who prefer working alone or in pairs
- Monitoring sensitive species or habitats that are not suitable for larger groups
- Taking advantage of good weather or specific seasonal conditions on short notice
As a member, you can choose which surveys to take on, when to do them, and who to work with. All activities follow standardised methods and contribute to long-term monitoring and conservation.
Surveys are supported by online guidance and resources, and personal support is available when needed. Communication happens via the Notice Board, but members can also contact each other directly through the website’s messaging feature.
Interested? Visit the Independent Survey Group homepage to learn more and see what is currently happening.
New Groups Coming Soon
There are already 13 active Interest Groups, and we expect a few new ones to launch later this year. Following up last winter’s training sessions, plans are in place for new groups focused on Waxcap Fungi and Lichens, two groups that will be especially active during autumn and winter, when many other groups wind down.
As you can see, there is always something to get involved in, so keep an eye out for updates later this year!
A lichen survey earlier this year on Godlingston Heath
