About the event

Join Luton & Bedfordshire Youth Rangers for a practical conservation session at Blow’s Downs, combined with a guided walk to explore the site’s history and archaeology, all set within this species‑rich chalk grassland with stunning views over Dunstable.

We’ll be carrying out hands‑on conservation work to help protect the chalk meadows, including cutting back and removing invasive plants and shrubs such as dogwood that encroach on the area’s rarer and more delicate species.

There will also be time to walk across Blow’s Downs and learn more about its fascinating past. What did this landscape look like in previous centuries? What archaeological and historical significance does it hold today? During the walk, we’ll be joined by our colleague Wendy, an archaeology expert, who will share insights and stories about the history of this unique nature reserve.

What to expect

The work will take place on the nature reserve and may involve:

• Uneven ground
• Walking through long grass

If you have any accessibility concerns or questions, please get in touch with us before the session.

What to wear

Please dress appropriately for the weather. We recommend:

• Boots with good ankle support due to uneven terrain
• Long trousers and long‑sleeved tops and a hat.

What we provide

• Refreshments
• Safety gloves

Meeting point

We will meet at the far end of Half Moon Lane where the entrance to Blow's Downs is. From here it is a short walk to the area we will be working at. 
What3Words location for the meeting point: apron.warm.bossy

Time

10:00 am – 12:30 pm

Our staff will be on hand throughout the session. Please do contact us in advance if you have any questions.
No previous experience is required — just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved.

* First‑time attendees: If you have not attended a Youth Ranger session before, a parental permission form must be completed. Please contact Ieva before booking to receive the online form: ieva.piraga@wildlifebcn.org

** In cases of extreme weather, such as heavy downpours, the session may be cancelled if safety or accessibility is affected.