Coast & Vale Youth Rangers

The Coast & Vale Youth Rangers is a free volunteer group for young people aged 13-18 who are interested in gaining hands-on skills and experience in conservation and environmental work.

Sessions usually take place outdoors on the first Sunday morning of each month at various green spaces in the Dedham Vale and Coast & Heaths Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), two AONBs on the Suffolk /Essex border.

Activities are varied and include practical conservation work, wildlife surveys, beach cleans, community tasks, bushcraft and outdoor pursuits.

It’s a great way of meeting new friends, building confidence and gaining valuable skills for the workplace. Either meet at activity location or book a lift in the minibus from Ipswich.

No experience is needed just lots of enthusiasm and a willingness to get stuck in and have some fun! All training and equipment provided. For more information please contact Emma Black, Countryside Projects Officer.

2024 Youth Ranger Events

The activities will be held at one of the following locations:

  1. RSPB Flatford Wildlife Garden - Flatford
  2. RSPB Wolves Wood - Hadleigh
  3. RSPB Stour Wood - Wrabness
  4. Flatford Mill Field's Study Council - Flatford
  5. National Trust – Flatford or Dedham
  6. Suffolk Wildlife Trust Arger Fen - Assington

Dates for 2024 tasks:

  • Sunday 3rd March
  • Sunday 7th April
  • Sunday 5th May
  • Sunday 2nd June
  • Sunday 7th July
  • Sunday 4th August
  • Sunday 1st September
  • Sunday 6th October
  • Sunday 3rd November
  • Sunday 1st December


A young volunteer carrying logs in a woodland