A heartfelt thank you extends to the incredible volunteers who joined us this past Saturday for the Bredagh River Conservation Day. Blessed with favorable weather and radiant sunshine, our dedicated team embarked on various conservation activities.
Focused Efforts on Salmonberry Eradication:
Our primary mission centered on combatting the invasive salmonberry plants. Salmonberry is an invasive plant belonging to the Raspberry family and was originally introduced during the Victorian era to offer dense cover for game. Over time, it has expanded its presence, colonizing hedgerows, woodlands, and farmland. With its luxuriant and dense growth, reaching up to 2 meters, Salmonberry poses a threat to hedgerows and detrimentally impacts native flora in woodlands.
Volunteers tirelessly cut them back and meticulously dug them out, taking a significant step towards restoring the natural balance of the environment.
Our second goal of the day was to make minor repairs to the roof of the bird hide, saving and potting plants to store over winter and ready for planting next year.
Clearing the steps during our Bredagh River Conservation Day was more than just a cosmetic enhancement. By sweeping away leaves and debris, we not only improved the aesthetic appeal but also created a safer pathway for everyone to use. This seemingly small act prevents the accumulation of slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring accessibility for all.
Even amidst our work efforts, we manage to carve out time for two well-deserved tea breaks. Filled with lively conversation and a few laughs, the day proved to be truly rewarding.
Closing the year on a high note.
This event marked our final gathering for the year and we extend a sincere thank you to everyone who contributed. Your dedication has left a lasting impact on the Bredagh River environment. We look forward to welcoming you back next year for more adventures.
Join the Inishowen Rivers Trust Volunteer Team.
If you’re inspired to make a difference and want to join future initiatives reach out to us at [email protected]. We’re always eager to welcome new volunteers in to our passionate community.
A heartfelt appreciation to @CelebrateWater, @LocalAuthorityWatersProgramme and @TheRiversTrust for their funding through the Resilience Pilot Project.
