Time again to organise a CITO or a litter-pick event now Geocaching Season 2 has started, and for a change I am suggesting meeting at the given coordinates near Bonehill Tor to pick up litter after the main summer picnics in the area. There is another carpark at N50 34.986 W3 47.506 if the given carpark is full, which is just a short walk away.
We will first meet for a short introduction and safety guidlines as provided by the Dartmoor National Park, and then we can spread out around Bonehill Rocks where the local Ranger has confirmed there is litter to remove! I will bring a supply of tough animal feed plastic bags and hopefully litter pickers, but please bring your own if you have them. PLEASE BRING SUITABLE GARDENING GLOVES to protect your hands as necessary. Between now and this event, the Ranger should be able to inform me where I/we can leave the bags for collection and disposal.Please bring your own refreshments should you feel you would require refueling, but again please take your own litter home too!
I will have a supply of handwipes as well as a basic First Aid kit in my car should they be required.
Dogs are of course welcome but please keep on leads, and clean up responsibily..
Children are also very welcome with an adult, though be aware there are quiet roads nearby.
I will be bringing a supply of enticing nibbles to reward you all for coming and making a difference by tidying up this part of the National Park. Looking forward to meeting up with you! I will be beside my mid-blue Hyundai car and probably wearing my red baseball cap if is is sunny!
Landscape risk assessment proforma - provided by Dartmoor National Park Sept 2024
Wear appropriate footwear and do a pre-check of the site to assess for hazards.
This is an area open to members of the public. It is common land, subject to the DNPA byelaws.
This is common ground so there will be stock grazing (sheep . ponies. cattle), don’touch or feed the animals. Animals may take interest in the black bags. Give all livestock a wide bearth.
Only pick up general litter with the use of litter picking tools, flytipping or “dirty” litter [sharps/
medical waste/glass/metal etc] to be reported to the Ranger team and cleared separately (local council and landowners responsible for flytipping.)
Provide provision for hand wipes, consider gloves and soap and water.
Carry a first aid kit and have an appointed fist aider.
Be careful when collecting litter that is hung up or entangled in brambles, avoid collecting litter on steep or slippery ground.
Take care when working close to the road, where possible wear high viz so that the group can be identified. Do NOT go onto main road.
This is a popular dog walking area, dogs should be under control, look out for associated mess. It is not advisable to include participants dogs in the work party.
Dartmoor weather is changeable, dress appropriately for the conditions. If the weather is forecast to be extreme or turns during the event close the event. Adhere to weather warnings. Offer suncream, advise to wear sun hats, insulate from heat or cold.
Consider offering hot drinks in cold weather.
Make sure that children and suitably supported. Request that guardians are accompanying children under 16 years of age.
Please be aware that many locations on Dartmoor have ticks and, in some instances, these may carry Lymes disease. Please check yourself for ticks and remove any with a tick-remover (anti-clockwise). If itching / rash / red ring develops seek medical advice as precautionary antibiotics may be advised.