Elsick Mounth

The path through Bruntyairds is still blocked by fallen trees from the February storms. Forestry Commission staff have been unable to clear the obstruction because of raptors reported to be nesting in the area. Now that the nesting season is over, we are advised that the path will be cleared next time machines are in the area, which is planned to be September 2005.

Forest District Manager

We have worked closely with Kevin Peace as Forest District Manager at the FCS Kirkton office ever since FDF was formed. Our relationship has always been harmonious and friendly. It is with some sadness that we said goodbye to Kevin, who has taken up a new post at Fort William. Kevin is a keen and expert ornithologist, so we presented him with a book on birds as a farewell gift.

The management structure is under review, and our relations with FCS are now conducted with Dan Cadle, the Community Ranger, who is also friendly and helpful.

Dyking course

A dyking course will take place on 24 September and 1 October at the FCS offices at Kirkton of Durris. The course will consist of two Saturday mornings from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm. There will be a small fee of £10 to assist with costs. Members who wish to participate should contact John Coyne on 844787 to reserve a place.

Elsick Mounth Help a Heart Walk

A small but friendly group of seven walkers enjoyed the walk from Craigie Daff car park to the Rickarton boundary and back in fine weather on 26 June. Thanks to all those who sponsored the walkers.

Felling programme

Thinning of the woods at Inchloan has now been completed. Two further projects are clear fell at Monthammockk and at Strathgyle, both of which are expected to take place in September or October.

Some vandalism has been reported at the stone circle in Clune Wood. Members should report any unauthorised activity, including camping or fires, to FCS at the Kirkton Office, or to any Board member promptly.

My favourite walk VII: Brachmont Wood

Distance: 1-2 km   Difficulty: easy 

Surface: mainly on-road

Start from the Brachmont  layby on the south east side of Brachmont Wood. Head north along the forest road into the wood, and follow the road round to head West and then South-West.

There are many alternative circuits.

a.       Bear right along the forest road heading North-West, follow round the left and complete a circuit back to the original forest road. Part of this route was cleared by a member, but is now more difficult due to several fallen trees.

b.       Bear left up a steep grassy ride through the Sitka forest, until you reach the more open larch wood at the hilltop, bear left to reach the road for 200 metres back to the start.

c.       Bear left along the edge of the felled area, and continue along the path to reach the same larch wood as above.

d.       Bear left along a path to the ruins of the old Hillhead farm, and continue bearing east to reach the same larch wood as above.

Deeside Line at the FDF AGM

Members have had their eye on the developments in Drumoak and Park over the past year or so. On 21 Nov, Craig Stewart, the Projects Officer at Aberdeenshire Council will speak on the Deeside Way/Old Deeside Line at the AGM at Kirkton Hall.