FEBRuary 2026
Welcome to Our Growing Community
With lots of new subscribers joining us, we’re excited to share updates on FODCAP, as well as lots of other great work supporting climate and nature action across the Forest of Dean. After a January of persistent rain and flooding – with more likely ahead – we’re signposting an upcoming Communities Prepared online session for flood volunteers, offering practical guidance for before, during and after a flood. As the light gradually returns, we hope you’ll find moments to reconnect with the outdoors, whether through activities like Nature Tots (for those with pre-school children) or by joining a February seed swap as you begin planning for spring planting.
FODCAP news - strengthening action across the District
Nature and Climate Strategy Workshop, January 2026
Over the past few months, FODCAP has been working closely with partners across the district. We facilitated a well‑attended workshop for the District Council, on the new Nature and Climate Strategy for the District, ensuring strong stakeholder and community input. It sparked lively discussion around priorities and practical actions. We also ran a Climate Fresk for our host organisation, Forest Voluntary Action Forum (FVAF). This generated a range of ideas for projects for individuals, the organisation and community to help reduce carbon emissions. If your group or organisation would like to run a Climate Fresk, then get in touch.
Alongside this, we’ve been developing our Theory of Change and starting a series of website improvements that will better reflect our mission - so keep an eye out for a fresh look in the coming months. One feature we’ll be launching soon is the Forest of Dean Resilience Web - an interactive map showcasing climate and nature initiatives, volunteering opportunities, campaigning groups and businesses across the district. If you have a project or group you’d like to include, we’d love to hear from you.
📢And finally, our new WhatsApp community is now live – a simple way to stay up to date with what’s happening locally. Please sign up, spread the word, and contact info@fodcap.org if you have something you’d like us to publicise. 📢
Biosphere Engagement - Tues 10 February
Join us for a session to share your thoughts on the Forest of Dean Biosphere application. We would love to hear your thoughts and input on a range of questions about what this might bring for this unique landscape and working forest.
Have your say on community energy in Dymock and Bromesberrow!
Rising energy costs are hitting hard. Locally owned renewable energy, like solar panels or wind turbines, could be part of the solution. However, they need to be in the right places and bring real benefits to local people, and not cause problems or division.
If you live in Dymock and Bromesberrow parishes, we want to hear what you think. No background knowledge needed, just bring your views and help shape the future of energy!
Get your free ticket here or email communities@cse.org.uk.
Yorkley Seed Swap - Saturday 21 February
Bring your spare seeds or simply come to browse and enjoy a relaxed community seed swap at Yorkley Community Centre. Alongside the swapping, there’ll be refreshments, homemade cakes, stalls and tool maintenance on offer. A lovely way to get ready for spring and connect with fellow growers across the Forest.
Email forestfoodnetwork@fvaf.org.uk for more info.
Secure a spot on Carbon Literacy training
This March, Emma Burlow from Lighthouse Sustainability is running another Carbon Literacy for Communities course in Newnham. This accredited course is designed for people who want to better understand climate change and feel confident taking practical, meaningful action in their community. It’s welcoming, accessible, and focused on real-world impact.
Course details:
Dates: 10, 17 and 24 March
Time: 6.30 - 9.00pm
Location: The George, High Street, Newnham (GL14 1BS)
Trainer: Emma Burlow, Lighthouse Sustainability
Cost: A donation of £40 is suggested to include certificate and light evening meal. (discounts available for local volunteers, unwaged participants, and those in full-time education)
Book your place here!
If you’re passionate about your local area, involved in community groups, or want to feel more informed on climate action, this is a great place to start (or to recommend to others in your network).
Growth Hub carbon workshop for small and medium sized businesses
12th March, 9:30 - 11:30 am at Vantage Point Business Village Ground Floor, Building Seven Western Avenue, GL17 0DD.
Gloucestershire County Council are inviting small and medium sized suppliers, including those supplying district councils, to attend a workshop hosted by The Growth Hub Gloucestershire on the fundamentals of carbon calculations for your business.
This two-hour session will help suppliers prepare for future carbon reporting requirements and support efforts to better understand supplier emissions. Spaces are limited and priority will be given to Gloucestershire-based SMEs.
Book a place here.
Become a Bus Ambassador
The Daffodil Bus line is looking for people to champion this vital community asset and offer support. Could you give up some time to help?
To find out more email community@buses4us.org
Nature Tots Comes to the Forest of Dean
Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust is bringing its much‑loved Nature Tots sessions to the Forest of Dean. These fun, outdoor mornings for pre‑school children include natural crafts, stories, trails and sensory play. Find out more and book your place here to enjoy time in nature with your little one.
Meeting point: By the Cabin on Angus Buchanan fields
Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026
Time: 10:00-11:30am
COMMUNITIES PREPARED FLOOD VOLUNTeer Training
This online Flood Volunteer session on Feb 11th, 17:00-19:00 is designed to teach you how to prepare and take actions before, during and after a flood. Learn preparation strategies and actions during a flood.
Check out other useful courses relating to communities being prepared for extreme weather here.