Yes, a rhododendron cull again for Xmas, as usual I have organised it with the Mugdock Ranger service with which I am a conservation volunteer. Please read all below for details.
I have organised in association with the Mugdock Park Rangers a festive rhoddie bash from 10.45 am till 1pm on Wednesday the 26th December within the park grounds. The task will involve removal of the invasive Rhododendron species, this will include sawing down mature Rhoddies, lopping or sawing the branches in to smaller more managable sizes to be burnt on site during the event, moving cut material to fire site (usually only a few metres) also feeding the fire, or possibly two fires, so a few wee different tasks on the day, should be something to suit everyone, swap about jobs too no problem. The chosen area is good and dry underfoot but decent stout footwear advised, can be a bit of a mucky task if wet weather but otherwise relatively clean. You will be given a quick tool and safety talk at the start of the event by a park Ranger. All tools and gloves are provided.
Meet at the front of the visitor centre by the metal ramp for 10.45am to then proceed to the site which is a few minutes walk away, I will meet and greet you at the above location and I will be present on site from well before 10am. We have a room within the stable block for changing, leaving stuff in, toilets. etc (our new room is now at the far end of the corridor after going up the ramp, not the room used in previous years)
***Unfortunately children under 16 are not normally permitted to attend the event due to sharp tools and a fire, however this year we have a bit of leaway, if you have a child nearing that age and wish to attend then please contact me beforehand .
If you are late then details will be left in visitor centre to our exact location and a free map.
*** There is the stables cafe within the courtyard at the visitor centre for refreshments open all day from 10am. Please wear old clothes and bring plenty of drinking water if you work near the fire, it gets very hot. Look forward to seeing you