Volunteer Invasive Species Plant Inspector

Do you enjoy working outdoors and want to make a difference for nature?  

We are Stichting De GroenVerbinders. We help residents – particularly those on a tight budget – to keep their gardens green and livable. We also have various clients, such as Lefier, de Huismeesters, and the Municipality of Groningen, for whom we carry out diverse jobs. We need your help for one of those jobs. Do you enjoy working with your hands and do you like seeing immediate results? Then we are looking for you!

What are you going to do?  

The Municipality of Groningen has asked us to inspect the Stadspark for invasive species. What does that entail? Together with three other colleagues, you will spend a half-day at the Stadspark each week. There, you will look for giant hogweed and Himalayan balsam, invasive exotic species that can be dangerous to biodiversity. You will also remove so-called unwanted 'sprouts' of young seedlings. All of this with the ultimate goal: a safe Stadspark with increased biodiversity.

You remove the invasive exotic species following the instructions provided. Naturally, all of this is done in accordance with safety regulations so that you and your colleagues can work safely at all times. You only remove emerging small exotic species. During the work, you keep the ecological benefit in mind: for example, you leave some tree bark behind for the benefit of insects and small mammals. A win-win situation!

In terms of tasks, you should think of:

• Locating giant hogweed and Himalayan balsam
• Remove the small exotic species
• Locate unwanted suckers (young seedlings such as alder, maple, and blackberry)
• Remove this if desired

You do not need to have an agricultural background . Extensive experience is not necessary either.

What is important, though:

• You enjoy working outdoors
• You are motivated
• You enjoy working together
• You are open to learning

What do we offer?  

• A pleasant, social, and cozy work environment
• A catered lunch and fruit at the workplace
• Guidance and support
• The opportunity to gain work experience
• Work that makes a visible difference in the neighborhood
• A volunteer allowance

Everyone can get to work with us. Are you looking for volunteer work? Or do you want to reintegrate after being unemployed for a while? Contact us!

Please note: feel free to apply to qualify for a participation job! We will ensure you get enough hours; there is plenty to do with us.