How to conduct an earthworm count
Why are earthworms a useful indicator species?
Earthworms are an excellent indicator of soil health. They are sensitive to a variety of soil characteristics including pH, waterlogging, compaction, and organic matter, so by undertaking worm counts, we can assess the overall health of our soil. Earthworms are soil-dwelling invertebrates that feed on decaying plant matter. They engineer the structure of the soil, naturally aerating and improving drainage as they burrow. We have around 31 different earthworm species in the British Isles, each with a different niche in the soil structure.
This training session is one of our scheduled surveys - so by the end of the session, you'll already have contributed data to our research. Whilst your time is hugely valuable to us, taking part in any of our trainings and surveys will give you useful experience you can use elsewhere, too.
Places are limited for each training session and must be pre-booked. Please book here to let us know you're coming.
If the session is fully booked, please join the waiting list as we may be able to offer another training session in response to demand.
Important info
- Over 18s only.
- Dress for the weather and in clothes you don't mind getting mucky - all training sessions are practical and will be outside.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable boots or wellies.
- Feel free to bring water and snacks with you.
- Sorry, no dogs are permitted with the exception of service animals.
This training session is FREE thanks to funding support from the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme
