A County-Wide Commitment to Nature
Come rain or shine, the EPIC (Enabling Projects in Clackmannanshire) Volunteers are out in force, improving access to nature and enhancing biodiversity across Clackmannanshire. From the slopes of the Ochil Hills to the heart of Alloa Town Centre, volunteers are restoring habitats, planting trees, and creating vibrant spaces for wildlife and people alike.
Whether it’s protecting rare habitats for the Northern Brown Argus Butterfly in Alva Glen, planting wildflower meadows in the Hillfoot Villages, or installing wildlife-friendly planters in urban areas, EPIC volunteers are making a visible and lasting difference.
A Legacy of Action
Now in its sixth year, EPIC has grown into a powerful community movement. Each year, over 100 local volunteers of all ages and backgrounds come together to care for the environment and for each other. The results speak for themselves:
- Over 17,500 trees planted – in places where people walk, cycle, picnic, and connect with nature.
- More than 20,000m² of wildflower meadow created and managed – supporting pollinators and biodiversity in parks, paths, and urban greenspaces.
- 9,200m² of invasive species removed – including Rhododendron ponticum, Himalayan balsam, and Japanese knotweed.
- 57km of footpaths improved – increasing access to nature and creating space for wildflowers to thrive.
“I very quickly knew that I wanted to learn as much as I could about the local wildlife and how I could help have a positive impact on biodiversity and how I can make greenspaces more accessible to the local community.” – EPIC Volunteer
People at the Heart
EPIC is more than a conservation project, it’s a community. Volunteers range in age from 17 to 71 and come from all walks of life. Over the past three years:
- 172 registered EPIC Volunteers have contributed their time and energy.
- 4,500 workdays have been logged—an extraordinary collective effort.
- 1,400 additional people have been engaged through events and nature-based activities.
Many volunteers join to explore new career paths, improve their wellbeing, or simply give back to their local area. For some, the project has been life-changing.
“I was looking for volunteering opportunities after being made unemployed—something practical and local. It gave me a sense of belonging, that I was helping others and being part of something, and knowing I was helping wildlife through the work.”
“I enjoy feeling useful, relevant and able to contribute. When my career in nursing ended due to a disability, I really struggled. Now I feel that my skills and knowledge are valued and respected by my colleagues.”
A Model for Local Action
EPIC’s work spans more than 60 sites, with nearly a third of activity taking place in the most deprived 20% of neighbourhoods. This reflects a deep commitment to equity and inclusion—ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, can benefit from access to nature and the opportunity to contribute to its care.
Through shared goals and shared effort, EPIC has built a supportive, inclusive community. Volunteers develop new skills, discover hidden corners of their county, and form lasting friendships – all while making a tangible difference to the environment.
Why EPIC Matters
The EPIC project is a shining example of what local volunteers can achieve. It demonstrates that those who know and care for their local areas are best placed to lead positive action for nature. Their work supports biodiversity, strengthens communities, and improves health and wellbeing – a brilliant representation of volunteering with TCV.
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