NEWSLETTER 11   - May 2002

 

 

Landscape work in the forests.

 

The next clearing day is on Sunday 26^th May meeting at the Craigie Daff (or Brachmont) car park as before at 10.00am. [OS map ref: NO807945]. This depends upon resolution of the insurance problem so please phone  beforehand to check if we are still on.

 

Bring hand tools (eg: loppers and bow saw) and protective clothing (eg: boots, gloves and waterproofs). We aim to spend two to three hours on the job, but feel free to come and go as you please. Bring your own snap.

Contact: Philip Dean

 

Locations and priorities have been agreed for landscape work in the forests in partnership between FE and FDF. The objectives are:

1.      Clear regenerated sitka:

The priority is to clear at sites close to public roads and forest car parks. Cairnieburn Glen and Craigie Daff Wood will be tackled next. The Forest Enterprise clearing gang will cut larger growth with chainsaws. The FDF gang will concentrate on smaller trees.

2. Identify and create viewpoints:

A number of viewpoints have been identified. It is intended to create and keep clear a viewing cone at these locations. Some views may be worth retaining indefinitely but others will come and go as the years go by.

3. Clean up ancient sites:

Brashings, stumps and logs should be removed at the three croft sites in Durris Forest - Hillhead, Pitcowdens, and Eddieslaw – to reveal the outline of buildings and old access tracks. Structures may need to be stabilised or safety reasons. These dwellings are important in the recent history of Durris and when cleared can provide added interest to a walk in the woods.

 

FSC logo 

 

Recognise the symbol? It is being used in a marketing campaign to promote the use of timber. We have seen it in glossy magazines, and in television ads. It is part of a European campaign to promote the use of wood for all sorts of purposes.

 

The FSC logo shows that timber comes from sustainable forestry. The UK Woodland Assurance Scheme approves sustainable sources of timber, and has recognised the local forests managed by Forest Enterprise as sustainable.

 

Several local timber merchants use timber from Durris and other local forests, including James Reid, Cordiner and James Jones. Forest Enterprise is seeking to persuade the larger construction companies to use local FSC timber, rather than import spruce all the way from Scandinavia. If you are buying timber, look for the FSC logo.

 

 

Horse Ride

On the 14th April 2002, 14 intrepid horse riders set out from Bogenraith Farm on a 10 mile sponsored horse ride to raise funds for the British Horse Society Access Fund and the Equine Grass Sickness Fund. The weather was not in our favour, but this did not dampen the spirits and everyone had an enjoyable ride on the route through Durris Forest. On completion of the ride, riders were presented with a commemorative rosette. A total of £200 was raised, to be split between the two causes.

Thanks to Noel Crozier for the use of the large field at Bogenraith Farm for parking. Also to Forest Enterprise and the band of helpers who put aside time to ensure the day ran smoothly and safely.

 

FDF Website

 

See the FDF website for the latest about Durris Forest and the outlying woods and our alternative plan:

www.friendsofdurrisforests.co.uk

Check out the activities planned for 2002 and all the latest news. If you wish to receive this newsletter, or notice of events by email, please contact any committee member.

 

Clune Story Trail

 

The children of Durris School are busy working on stories linked to the traditional Durris midsummer fire. Renowned local story teller Stanley Robertson enthralled them with stories like the magic wellies, and explained how to create stories. The children are now researching and creating their own stories, drawing on history and myth from the area. Any information about local history would help this exciting project.

 

A story trail will be created in Clune Wood - others will be able to follow the signs telling the story. Forest Enterprise has agreed to support the production of permanent signs.

 

A festivity for adults and children to celebrate the summer solstice and the opening of the story trail will be held on midsummers day, 21 June 2002. The event is a partnership between FDF and the School, and members of the community are welcome to join in this event.

 

There will be an exhibition about the creation of the stories and about local history in a marquee. Come and walk the story trail between 5.00 and 6.30 pm. At 6.30 there will be an informal inaugural event in the marquee. Bring your own picnic. Space for cars is limited – please leave your car at home if possible.

 

The project is aided by a grant from Awards for All, a lottery funded organisation.

 

Elsick Mounth

 

Some broadleaves have now been planted to mark the route across the corner of Currackstane Wood. Windblow should be cleared from the path through Bruntyairds Wood by the time this newsletter reaches you.

 

 

Insurance

Our insurer has withdrawn cover at short notice, following a large claim against a similar body. We are seeking to find new cover. Please check before joining FDF activities, which may have to be cancelled.

 

Forest Safety

Members have reported unauthorised fires at or near some of the Bronze Age stone circles in the forest. Fires are not permitted in the forests for obvious safety reasons. Please report any incidents to Forest Enterprise and the public authorities. For similar reasons motor cycles are not permitted, and any sightings should be reported, with registration and description.

 

Sheeoch Trail

On Saturday 18 May, volunteers are invited to help clear a simple path along the Sheeoch Burn and around Kirkton Wood. The path will  increase the amenity of this beautiful area. The undergrowth around the old bridge will also be cleared.

Meet at 10.00 a.m. in the Kirkton Hall car park.

Contact: John Coyne