River Keeper

The Role

The River Keeper plays an important part in our Estates team, comprising: River Keeper, Gardener, Estate Worker, Groundsperson, Conservation Ranger and Countryside Ranger Apprentice, line managed by the Conservation & Woodland Manager. You will be managing a 2 mile stretch of the River Coln, a haven for wildlife including brown trout, otters and water voles. This role is responsible for the conservation and sporting management of the river; working independently or leading volunteers to maximise healthy fish and wildlife populations, guided by our Catchment Management Plan.

The River Keeper is responsible for the management of river level controls, responding to seasons and weather to maintain appropriate river levels. The seasonal cycle of work includes managing vegetation, cutting Ranunculus, bank works, stocking and impalements. The role also requires responsive work, and sometimes pitching in with the team to make progress on wider projects. Responsibilities include oversight of rod rules, infrastructure, budgeting of works and occasional contractor supervision. There is potential for future supervision of an apprentice.

Work to manage invasive plants and animals is essential to support the river, requiring good knowledge of species and habitat. The work is carried out through the use of hand tools, machinery such as ride-on mowers, chainsaws, brush cutters, tractors and implements. Work in the river itself is required, so you will need to be comfortable with this aspect of the role.

You will uphold best practices in safety and sustainability throughout your work, as well as taking care to maintain tools and equipment. As the River Keeper, you are the main point of contact with the fishermen and women on the river, and an important ambassador for the Trust with stakeholders in the local communities of Fairford and Quenington, liaising with parties such as Farm Tenants, the Town Council and the Environment Agency. The role requires out of hours working to effectively manage issues pertaining to access, poaching and river level management.

Main Accountabilities

• Deliver objectives that support the ecological health of the River Coln, in line with the Catchment Management Plan ensuring a balanced and sustainable habitat for aquatic species, including maintaining healthy breeding fish stocks through habitat enhancement and controlled stocking of farmed fish.
• Carry out ongoing maintenance of riverbanks, boundaries, and infrastructure to ensure accessibility and support wildlife conservation; this includes monitoring river levels, water quality and managing sluices.
• Monitor for signs of poaching and other illegal activities, ensuring quick reporting and response to protect fish stocks and the river environment.
• Monitor, manage and control invasive species, pests, and predators to protect native ecosystems and preserve the health of the river and surrounding habitats.
• Lead work parties and contribute to the creation and management of wetland areas, aiming to enhance biodiversity and improve conditions for breeding fish and other wildlife.
• Support the Trust’s charitable object of education in relation to Outdoor Learning - maintaining safe access and exemplary management of the river for visiting groups.
• Work with the Conservation & Woodland Manager and Conservation Ranger in the management of the wider catchment for wildlife.
• Liaise with stakeholders to integrate river management with wider land uses and landscape projects.

Person Specification

Specific Requirements

• Sensitive approach to habitat management, a good awareness of timing and methods to maximise conservation value.
• Motivation to work independently, identifying and responding to work as it arises.
• Strong attention to detail, taking care in and pride in presentation of the river.
• Good knowledge of species and habitats.

Personal Qualities

• Good initiative and independent working, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
• Interpersonal skills to build strong connections with stakeholders.
• Adaptability to meet the changing demands throughout the year.
• Ability to organise and manage workload, looking ahead through the year to maintain the site and meet management project plans.

Skills and Knowledge

• Level 3 (or above) qualification in Fisheries Management (or similar equivalent).
• Trained and competent in use of tools and machinery including chainsaw, brush cutter, ride-on mower. Shotgun licence (desirable).

How to Apply

In the first instance, please upload your completed CV and cover letter here.

Closing Date

Sunday 26 January 2025 at 23:59

Interviews

w/c 10 February 2025 at Fairford, Gloucestershire GL7 4JH

What3words: https://w3w.co/otters.laying.campus