What does Countrycare do?

Epping Forest Countrycare is Epping Forest District Council’s Countryside Management Service. Based within the Policy and Conservation Section of the Directorate of Planning and Economic Development. Countrycare is fully funded by the District Council and is the key resource for advice, information and practical assistance on countryside and nature conservation issues. 

Operating across the whole of the Epping Forest District (336km²)  Countrycare undertakes a wide variety of community-based activities and coordinates a regular programme of practical conservation work.  The ability of Countrycare to engage and involve the local community in “hands on” practical conservation work remains its key strength. As one of the Council’s primary “enablers” Countrycare involves people of all ages and abilities in every aspect of its work.  

     Over the last 20 years the Service has    

     developed credible and proven track

     record for delivering quality projects which, in

     turn has developed strong community  

     support and trust, and staff have been able

     to harness this to good effect. The obvious 

     public enthusiasm and desire of people to 

     make a difference is reflected in  

     Countrycare’s ability to recruit and keep a

     wide volunteer base.

Each year Countrycare produces an Annual Report highlighting all its work and activities.

What are Countrycare's Key Objectives?

• To conserve and promote the biodiversity of the Epping Forest District

• To Improve public access to the countryside and provide for informal recreation

• To promote a greater understanding and respect for the countryside

• To involve local communities in all aspects of the Service’s work

• To Implement the goals of the Council’s Community Plan

What are Countrycare's Key Activities?

• Habitat management and creation – managing over 30 sites (including 9 Local Nature Reserves) across the District including ponds, grassland, woodland and hedgerows.
• Access improvements – Work on improving access to public green spaces. Please note EFDC no longer have the Highways Agency and all public rights of way responsibilities are now with Essex County Council. (01279) 642 500
• Educational activities – work with schools, coordinating the district Tree Warden Scheme, organising guided walks and events.
• Working with volunteers and the community.
• Coordinating the Epping Forest Free Tree Scheme

Contact us

• Telephone: 01992 788 203
• Email: contactcountrycare@eppingforestdc.gov.uk