It's wilder than you might think.

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As members of the National Trust for Scotland Dumfries and Galloway Countryside Team, we manage properties across Dumfries and Galloway, including Threave Estate and Nature Reserve; Rockcliffe Property; Venniehill; The Murray's Isles and Bruce's Stone. Our task is to conserve and maintain the variety of habitats and species present, at the same time managing the sites for the education and enjoyment of current and future generations.

17 August 2013

Rockcliffe: Himalayan Balsam Removal

On Tuesday the 13th August, the team were joined by twelve young people, including two members of staff from Abernethy Trust (Barcaple Outdoor Christian Centre). The group are taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme for one week at Barcaple. They are covering various tasks including maintenance, cooking and outdoor pursuits.
The task involved for the D & G team was to remove Himalayan Balsam from part of our Rockcliffe property. Himalayan Balsam was introduced to the British Isles in the Mid 1800s, then escaped from gardens and has now established itself along many water courses throughout the British Isles. It is a vigorous plant out competing and shading out our native species.
With the help from the group, we managed to remove thirty plus bags of Himalayan balsam. This will be part of an ongoing program to control the problem of this invasive species.  The D & G Countryside Team hope to develop a working partnership with the Barcaple Outdoor Christian Centre in the future.
Thanks guys.
Dave Thompson.

Lost in the Braken!

The D of E Award Team.

Guess the plant game. Guess who was Himalayan Balsam?
Removal of Himalayan Balsam along the stream.



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