Epping Forest Pond Survey Induction Session

Join us for a whistlestop tour of what's on the agenda for pond surveying in Epping Forest in 2026 and how to join us as a volunteer.

Interested in helping out with pond condition monitoring in Epping Forest in 2026? Join us for an introduction to the ponds of Epping Forest, why we monitor them, and what we’ll be looking at as part of our upcoming survey work.

Epping Forest is home to over 150 ponds that provide vital habitats for rare and unique wildlife, including amphibians such as the Great Crested Newt, invertebrates like the Downy Emerald Dragonfly, and specialist plants such as Water Violet. In 2026, we will be assessing the condition of these ponds to better understand their value for wildlife and to help inform future management.

This in-person induction session will begin with a presentation introducing Epping Forest’s pond wildlife and outlining our monitoring plans for 2026, including how the data collected will be used. We will then take a short walk to visit nearby ponds to practise surveying, with time for discussion and questions.

No previous experience is necessary.

Date and Time

📅 Saturday 7 February
⏰ 10:30am – 1:30pm

Location

📍 The Warren Office, Epping Forest
(In-person event)

What to Bring

Please come prepared for both an indoor session and a short outdoor walk:

• Your own packed lunch- Please ensure any food you bring to this event is nut free.
• A smartphone
• Appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for a short walking in the forest

☕ Tea, coffee, and biscuits will be provided.

Please email any accessibility requirements in advance: epping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Please note:
If you book but can no longer attend, please cancel your space so we can offer your space to someone else as these events are extremely popular.

While we encourage all people interested in participating in pond surveys in 2026 to attend this event, let us know if you can’t make it but want to help out by emailing EFVolunteering@cityoflondon.gov.uk.

On the day contact:
If you are running late or experience any issues on the day, please let us know by calling 02085321010 so we’re aware.

Thank you