The Dry Stone Walling Association (DSWA) founded in 1968 is a registered charity, which seeks to ensure the best of craftsmanship of the past is preserved and has a thriving future. It operates the only specialist graduated national assessment scheme for skills in dry stone walling and provides a Register of Certificated Wallers and Dykers and Sources of Stone which lists only those DSWA members who have attained certification in practical dry stone walling skills.

Publications and Members
DSWA publications also include Geology for Wallers and Exploring and Recording Local Field Boundaries. The DSWA is keen to promote the skills of its members and urges employers to check that those being employed do hold relevant skills certification. Professional members carry membership cards that give name, current member-ship and level of certification held. If in doubt about the qualifications of any waller or dyker, the Association would be happy to advise.

DSWA Register
Copies of the Register can be obtained by sending a s.a.e. (3lp stamp) to: The Secretary, Dry Stone Walling Association, YFC Centre, National Agricultural Centre, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire CV8 2LG requesting register 2000.

Wallers and Dykers
The Association advises that phrases such as “walling to DSWA standard”, “Craftsman Certificate held” are misleading and should not be used by any waller or dyker - member or not and employers are advised to refer any such cases directly to DSWA in writing. In cases of disputes, the Association can recommend consultants to inspect work for employers and/or wallers/dykers and in addition there are national consultants who will prepare reports for possible litigation, and local consultants for a more informal appraisal of the situation. A fee may be required for these services.

Contact
Details of services and publications are available from the address stated earlier or by calling telephone and fax: 0121 378 0493. Alternatively, view the Register lists and other information at the DSWA website on:   www.dswa.org.uk