Forres Friends of Woods and Fields group loooking for volunteers to help nurture Sanquhar projects
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GREEN-fingered environmentalists are looking for volunteers to take part in a new project.
Having cleared invasive plant species from Sanquhar and planted native trees in their place, Forres Friends of Woods and Fields (FFWF) have started growing vegetables in adjacent fields and are inviting more people to get involved.
FFWF’s Nick Molnar was thrilled when some toddlers helped prepare raised growing beds.
He said: “Giving children an early start growing vegetables will give them basis for a lifelong appreciation of healthy food. Poppy Kinnegen (17 months) and Fin Hoyle (3) have been to Chapelton to mix compost into eight raised beds, ready for sowing and planting. They are growing salad leaves, potatoes, leeks and flowers. Peas and beans will follow.”
FFWF is restoring woodlands, supporting food sustainability and aiding wellbeing. Its woodland is on the ridge south of Sanquhar, running to the Kennel and Chapleton Fields near the Mosset Burn. The land was acquired from Altyre Estate last year and clearing the ridge at Sanquhar was completed by a contractor paid for with Berry Burn funding.
“It’s an ongoing task to keep abreast of regrowth,” said Nick, “as well as removing non-native conifers and replacing with native trees. A team of volunteers has been working in the eight acre woodland throughout the winter and spring.”
The site is now more open and inviting. School classes and environmental groups have been holding programmes there.
Nick added: “The lighter landscape will encourage woodland flowers and regrowth of native trees. We hope more people will visit. Volunteers are welcome to ask questions about our aims for this special environment.”
To find out more visit www.forresfriends, email forresfriends@gmail.com or phone 01309 671112.
