Volunteers should see that they are part of a team which is determined to do things as efficiently and enjoyably as possible.
- The leader should first explain the task and set the day’s objective. Where a task is dishearteningly big and apparently endless, it helps greatly to see at the end of the day that a measurable amount has been accomplished.
- Small groups should work methodically on one goal at a time, rather than on several things ‘ none of which may get done by day’s end. Larger groups may, of course, do several things if they are sure of finishing them.
- If some jobs are unavoidably colder or more tiring than others, switch people around from time to time to spread the burden.
- Logistics pose a major problem on many coastal tasks. Supplying and transporting materials is the essential factor in a task’s success, whether the work be transplanting marram, laying mulch or brushwood, constructing fences, spraying fertiliser and binder or building boardwalks.
- Even in simple, slow tasks it is often most efficient to break down the work force into small groups of three to six people since this allows them to develop teamwork and help each other as necessary.
- The leader’s main problem in ‘linear’ tasks such as fencing and boardwalk construction or fertilising and binding is to reduce bottlenecks to a minimum so that all volunteers are employed as steadily as possible whatever their job. Too often a large group does a job which is best done by just a few people. On such tasks it is also a good idea to stockpile materials along the route in advance, to avoid delays while waiting for materials and to reduce the danger of people tripping over tools or colliding with fellow workers when fetching heavy materials. If at all possible, tasks should be planned with varied work so that ‘excess’ volunteers can be put to use elsewhere if they are not needed on the main job.
- Foreshore work times may be restricted because of tides or weather. Consult tide tables well in advance when planning the daily work routine, and keep up with weather forecasts. Have backup work available if there is a chance that tides or weather may make it impossible to carry out the main task on certain days.
