Spotlight on Volunteering
Written by Tir Coed / Wednesday 25 September 2024
Tir Coed’s Carmarthenshire volunteer group had a productive time at Mynydd Mawr Country Park last month, working hard to clear and widen pathways. Using loppers and secateurs, volunteers removed brambles and low-hanging branches to improve access and ensure the pathways are safe for local walkers and visitors to the park.
Following their efforts, the group then had the chance to learn a new skill, or rather an ancient skill:
Steam bending is an ancient woodworking technique that combines heat and moisture to make wood pliable, allowing it to be shaped without breaking. To steam bend our yurt poles and walking sticks, the wood was stacked in a traditional steam-box, a simple device in which the wood was steamed for 1 – 2 hours to soften the fibres, allowing the wood to bend without cracking.
Once removed from the steam, the wood was bent around a makeshift jig, held in place using clamps until it dried and retained its new shape. The ash’s straight grain makes it particularly cooperative in this process.
Our volunteers appreciated the chance to learn a new skill and our activity leaders were glad to provide an engaging and enjoyable experience.
Meanwhile, in Ceredigion, a small but dedicated group of three volunteers have been instrumental in the ongoing development of Garddi Tyllwyd Garden since its creation in 2019. Initially, they worked together to secure a Keep Wales Tidy start-up grant, which helped establish the garden with a greenhouse, shed, three raised beds and a compost bin. Since then, they’ve continued to meet weekly, maintaining the garden and sharing their expertise. Their knowledge has been invaluable, especially in supporting the delivery of our Sustainability Horticulture course.
In fact, some trainees who participated in the course have chosen to stay involved, joining the volunteer group to further develop and maintain the garden throughout the year and to help prepare it for the next course. This ongoing effort not only helps to look after the garden but also strengthens the sense of community, creating a lasting impact on both the land and the people involved.
