
How to run a community dome-building project
Building a Hedgehog Dome is powerful on its own, but building one together as a community is even more impactful. Schools, neighborhood groups, and local councils can use Dome-building projects to bring people together, raise awareness, and make a lasting contribution to local biodiversity.
Why community projects matter
- Education: Children and adults learn directly about hedgehog ecology and conservation.
- Engagement: Hands-on projects give people ownership and pride in their environment.
- Visibility: A public Dome showcases what’s possible, encouraging others to join.
- Long-term impact: More Domes in more places = stronger local hedgehog populations.
Tips for schools
- Integrate Dome-building into science or environmental studies.
- Involve students in every step: planning, drawing diagrams, preparing materials, and planting.
- Use the Dome as a living outdoor classroom: track insect diversity, plant growth, and signs of hedgehog activity.
- Share student-made videos and stories to inspire parents and the wider community.
Tips for neighborhood groups
- Organize a “Dome Day” where families gather to build one or more Domes in shared green spaces.
- Encourage people to donate materials (bricks, soil, plants) rather than buying everything new.
- Combine the build with a social event (picnic, outdoor games) to strengthen community spirit.
- Document the project with group photos and a shared story and send it to us so we can highlight your success.
Tips for local councils
- Support Dome-building as part of biodiversity or climate action programs.
- Involve local volunteers, garden associations, and schools in the building process.
- Place Domes in parks, road verges, or community gardens; areas where hedgehogs face pressure but can benefit from safe shelter.
- Provide signage to educate visitors about hedgehogs and inspire replication in private gardens.
Keys to success
- Plan ahead: Assign clear roles for preparation, building, and planting.
- Make it inclusive: Everyone can help; children, seniors, skilled builders, or people new to conservation.
- Celebrate the result: Take a group photo, share the story widely, and invite others to visit the Dome.
- Connect with us: Send your community project documentation to us, we love to showcase collective action and help spread the word to even more groups.