Organiser: Adrian Palmer

Meeting Point: Milford Bridge

Task: Himalayan Balsam Pulling

This session will focus on Himalayan Balsam (HB) pulling in, and on the banks of the Danestream. We will meet at Milford Bridge on the High Street at the bottom of the Pleasure Grounds. There is significant areas of HB on the Old Mill land and we would then work our way upstream. We ideally need one or two ‘spotters’ on the bank to work with our HB ‘guru’, David Horne, and hopefully one other who will working in the stream. Waders will be provided and no tools are needed as the HB can be removed by hand.

Again, depending on numbers, as we work upstream there are areas of vegetation that restrict the effective width/height of the path and we would like to tackle these, particulalrly where the path is already quite narrow.

Please bring your own gloves and secateurs (if you wish to cut back vegetation) as well as drinks, sun protection etc. All other tools we may need will be provided..

I look forward to seeing volunteers on Tuesday. As a reminder future dates for this year are shown here. Please note the date change in August for which there will be a separate communication next week.

Tuesday 22nd July

Tuesday 12th August

Tuesday 16th September

Wednesday 29th October

Tuesday 18th November

Wednesday 10th December

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Every effort will be made to keep to this date, but changes can occur due to weather, logistics, to suit other involved parties or to avoid conflicting events. Generally an email will be sent to volunteers a week in advance with location and details of the task. It is possible that additional sessions will be added , including at weekends if there is time critical, or backlog of tasks to complete.

If you would like to join the list please fill in our contact form.

Tasks are generally planned with the parish council, and wherever possible have a conservation theme. Most tasks are conservation management or maintenance and vary from lighter clearance work e.g. footpaths, bramble, rhododendron and hazel coppice, to heavier work like drainage, revetment or footpaths. Occasionally we do get opportunities to enhance or even create habitat for flora and fauna. 

Volunteers should wear gloves and sturdy footwear, safety glasses and long trousers recommended. Bring waterproofs, sunscreen and insect repellent as appropriate and bring your own water/refreshments.