What do Rangers do?

The job of a Ranger is often a varied one with many aspects requiring specialist knowledge and training. One such task is that of tree management.

Trees need managing for a number of reason; health and safety, maintenance of traditional techniques such as pollarding, habitat and species management; all of these require specialist knowledge and skills to implement. One of the most specialist aspects of tree work is called ‘aerial work’, this entails the climbing of the tree to carry out jobs such as removal of limbs or dead wood that is causing a health and safety hazard to the public – usually those limbs over a pathway. Team member, Pete Schofield, has been qualified as an aerial tree worker for 10 years, however, it is only recently that a ‘health and safety’ second has qualified, Dave James. Known as a ‘groundsman’ it is Dave’s job to ensure Pete’s safety and if necessary be able to rescue him should he become injured whilst working up the tree – a critical job but not one that we actually want him to use!

All these skills take practice, and it was a sunny day that saw Pete and Dave inching their way up and down a very mature specimen Beech at Neumann’s Flash. Pete ‘the casualty’ was thankfully rescued safely by Dave.

Tree work takes place in the autumn-winter period to avoid disturbing nesting birds but occasionally work can be done outside these times in the event of a health and safety issue, such as storm damage after gales. Additionally, Pete, also a qualified bat handler may check limbs, holes, gashes or whatever for many of the bats that roost in the park. So, look out for these two, coming to a tree near you soon!