21 Oct Corporate Volunteering – from strength to strength
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VolkerFitzpatrick volunteers help slow the flow on Monken Hadley Common
On 20th October 2026, six volunteers from VolkerFitzpatrick rolled up their sleeves to support the Monken Hadley Common Trust Volunteers carrying out practical conservation work to improve the Common’s network of leaky dams. This is their second volunteering session with MHCT this year.
The combined team cleared access to the existing dams, repaired the three existing leaky dams and constructed one completely new leaky dam. It was a hands-on morning that will help the Trust maintain the Common and manage the way rainwater moves through the landscape.
Why do leaky dams matter?
Leaky dams are deliberately permeable barriers. Rather than stopping water altogether, they allow it to pass through while slowing its journey downstream. This approach is a recognised form of natural flood management. During periods of heavier rainfall, leaky dams can temporarily hold water back and reduce the speed at which it moves through a catchment.
They also catch some of the leaves, sticks, sediment and other debris being carried by flowing water. On the Common, this work is also intended to help keep material away from the outflow grate and reduce the risk of it becoming blocked and damaging the infrastructure around it.
It was a fantastic practical contribution from the VolkerFitzpatrick volunteers, combining teamwork with a simple nature-based approach to managing water on the Common. A huge thank you to everyone who got involved in making a positive difference to this valued local green space.
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