This event is going to be held on Saturday 25th May 2019. From 10:15 to 13:00
The meeting location is going to be at N 55° 56.678 W 003° 14.595. Parking is within the ice rink car park.
Work that is required:
Today’s CITO is going to be located on the Water of Leith at the Murrayfield area of the river.
This CITO is going to concentrate on the pulling of Himalayan Balsam from the banks of the river.
Himalayan Balsam is an invasive plant that sets its explosive seed in August, so if we are going to get on top of this plant before it chokes out more of our native flora, we need to start as early as possible. The seeds of this plant are not long lived, and its easily uprooted so with a concerted volunteer effort over the next crucial couple of months, we could make a big difference to our river banks. This event is our contribution to the effort to remove as much of this plant as possible from the river bank.
It is expected that some people may be required to go into the river. Therefore, if you have waders then please bring them along.
There will be a Health & Safety brief and instructions given at the above co-ordinates by the Water of Leith Conservation Trust. You will be expected to sign a disclaimer stating that you have received and understood the brief!
Straight after the brief we will get started on pulling the Himalayan Balsam, meeting back at the start co-ords. This should take no more than 2 1/2 hours (dependant on numbers that turn up).
All equipment that is required will be supplied. It is advised to wear long trousers and boots, as you may be on slopes with loose soil.
Anyone is welcome to come along and help as required, but most of the work is going to require agility and the crossing of a fence.
Why The Water Of Leith?
Well the conservation trust are in full knowledge of the caches along the river, and despite all of the clean-ups that happen they get left alone. They are supportive of our hobby, and I think it is good to let them see that we are willing to give back to them for that support. They are also a registered charity and require local organisations and other groups to volunteer to clean and maintain the river, so that their costs can be kept to a minimum.
Keep an eye on this listing or post a Will Attend, as changes may be made, I will post an announcement message on here each time I make any significant changes.