Wildflower planting volunteer day at Hardknott Forest

Forestry England and the BMC are undertaking an exciting project to restore Hardknott Forest, one of the largest conifer plantations in the Lake District, to native woodland. Since 2003, groups of volunteers have been coming to Hardknott Forest to help restore a conifer plantation to a native broadleaf woodland of oak, birch, rowan, willow and holly.

Bookings

The ticket fee for this activity is taken as a donation to the Restoring Hard Knott Forest project and will be used to purchase the wildflowers for planting on the site. Places are limited, so if you (or a member of your party) are unable to attend, please be sure to let us know straight away, so we can release your place to someone else.

Location

Meeting place: Hardknott forest, Birks Bridge Car Park, Duddon Valley, near Seathwaite, Cumbria LA20 6ED

Start time: 09.15

Please arrive with plenty of time to get parked and booted up. Please note that there are no toilet facilities available at this car park.

What do you need to bring?

You will need to bring lunch, a drink and suitable footwear and clothing for a day spent working outdoors. All necessary training and tools will be provided. Here's our recommended kit list:

• Walking boots or walking shoes suitable for mountain terrain

• Waterproof jacket (waterproof over trousers recommended in case of rain but not essential)

• Warm mountain clothing (base layer, insulating layer, spare layer in backpack) – Suitable walking trousers/shorts - fast drying material NO JEANS

• Gloves, warm hat, sunglasses, sun hat, sun cream (you never know!)

• 20-30ltr day rucksack

• Head torch and spare batteries

• Whistle (not an essential item but good practice to carry this in the hills)

• Flask and/or water bottle

• Packed lunch materials and hill snacks

Please note that the walk leader reserves the right to exclude attendees from the event if they are not adequately prepared.

Who can come

This day is open to BMC members and accompanying friends or anyone who has an interest in the work of the BMC and conservation work.

Please note dogs are not permitted on this event.

If you have any questions regarding the event please email lead volunteer Rose Gare-Simmons at rgaresimmons@gmail.com

More about the project

Hardknott Forest is a 600 hectare conifer plantation in the upper reaches of the Duddon Valley in the Lake District. It was planted in the 1930s after strong local opposition. Now, 80 years later, the forest plantations are reaching maturity. After consultation with local people and organisations, Forestry England has decided to restore the entire plantation into native habitats of oak and birch woodland, bogs and open ground.

We give full training in the techniques needed and provide all tools and equipment. We will brief you on health and safety and there will always be a qualified first aider present.

FIND OUT MORE: Hardknott Forest planting project

Aside from the work, we want you to enjoy your time at Hardknott. Take some time to appreciate the views and the wildlife (and tell someone if you spot anything interesting).

It is currently too early to know how the day will be regarding the weather, however… as we know, the Lakes has its own weather system, and we could see anything! Please ensure you are well equipped for all weathers. Some people will be aware of what to bring for a day in the hills but for those who are unsure I have included a kit list below.