Removal of non-native plant species

Over the winter of 2008/09 the project will employ four new members of the team. The work carried out will be to systematically remove all self-seeded trees on the blanket bog at the RSPB Lake Vyrnwy reserve. These invasive trees originate from the conifer blocks, which were planted around the lake from the 1880s. The impact that these species create is very negative as they both shade natural blanket bog species and remove water from the bog itself.

There are two species of plants being specifically targeted by this work:

Sitka spruce: these trees will be cut down and inserted into any nearby grips to assist with the grip blocking work.

Rhododendron: these plants will be removed from the site either by cutting, winching or digging to ensure all of the roots are removed. Once removed from the bog they will be taken off site and burnt.