Volunteer Ranger Programme
In 2007, the Countryside Access & Activities Network (CAAN) set up a Volunteer Ranger Programme. The aim of the programme is for volunteers to audit the 'Quality' walks in Northern Ireland as listed on www.walkni.com The resulting information is then forwarded to the relevant land managers (through Product Management Groups) in order that they can carry out the necessary remediation work.
To date this has involved auditing of the long distance walks known as the “Waymarked Ways”, with Volunteer Rangers completing audits of these routes twice a year.
In 2009 CAAN, extended the audit programme to include the short and medium distance walks and also the Canoe Trails and Ecotrails developed by CAAN over the last 5 years.
There are now over 150 registered volunteers, the majority of which have received training on how to complete an audit. 
Tiso Belfast is the official sponsor of the CAAN Volunteer Ranger Programme for 2011-2012. Tiso is based in the city centre of Belfast for over 15 years, is the definitive Outdoor Hillwalking store in Northern Ireland. The store contains a dedicated Boot room and footwear section with Tiso Footwear Specialists.
It is, and always has been Tiso’s aim to support local walking Clubs and organisations like CAAN and hopefully develop long and lasting relationships with organisations, groups and individuals.
Being a Volunteer Ranger is a great opportunity to become an active member of the Northern Irish walking community. It also means that through their work the Volunteer Rangers can play a key role within CAAN. The significance and scope of the Volunteer Ranger Programme is growing and as such CAAN’s Operational Plan for 2009-2012 incorporates the ranger programme as a major component.
Register as a Volunteer Ranger
To register as a Volunteer Ranger, please download the application form and send the completed form to Diane Patterson at the address below.
Application - Volunteer Ranger - Quality Walks
Please also complete and return the attached medical form.
Medical Form - Volunteer Ranger
News
1/ Some quality walks and sections of the Ulster Way are still available for audit and volunteers are required! please contact Diane directly using the contct details below.
2/ The Volunteer Ranger Summer Walk will be taking place in July of this year, date tbc. For further details of the trip or to book a place, please contact Diane directly using the contct details below.
3/ A WinterWalk took place on 31st January 2011 in the Antrim Hills. Thanks to Hugh O'Donnell for leading the walk and to all those who attended.
Contact
If you have questions with regard to the Volunteer Ranger Programme please contact:
Diane Patterson
Countryside Access & Activities Network
The Stableyard, Barnett`s Demesne
Malone Road, Belfast
BT9 5PB
Tel: 028 9030 3930
Fax: 028 9062 6248
diane@countrysiderecreation.com
