The Ranger Service would like to thank everyone who came along and helped us pull this invasive species over the last 3 months. Himalayan Balsam is a big problem as it outcompetes the native wildflowers, contributes to erosion and its exploding seed pods make it very hard to control. Hopefully we have made a real impact on some areas of Castle Semple Country Park this year.
Our regular volunteers, the Thursday Adult Conservation group and the Sunday Youth group have done little else and we really appreciate all their hard work. It can be demoralising doing the same thing over and over!
The last group we worked with (pictured) were the Lochwinnoch Home Education Group, look at the size of those piles!
If you would like to help towards the Park’s conservation and remove alien species then rhododendron season is fast approaching (October – March). This involves using bow saws and loppers to cut and then burn them. It’s great to see a before and after picture of how much has been cleared in an area.
Many employers (including our own parent council Renfrewshire) give employees volunteering days. Leave the office or daily grind behind and join us a day in the fresh air and some exercise, all while helping our native plants and animals.
If you’d like to enquire about bringing a few colleagues on a day out or just as yourself, please email the Rangers on cmrp.rangers@renfrewshire.gov.uk . If you’d like to join the Thursday group we can email or provide a form and the programme for the next few months. All training and equipment are provided for all volunteering. We’re looking forward to meeting you!