Stroneslaney Riparian Tree Planting Project
Overview
During spring 2018, the Trust engaged with the landowner at Stroneslaney Farm on the river Balvaig to work in partnership, boosting riparian tree cover along the river. Working with the landowner, we used a novel method to plant trees whilst providing them with the protection they need from deer and livestock which might be present.
50 triangle enclosures 1.2m x 1.2m x 1.2m and 200 single round enclosures with a diameter of 50cm were constructed to protect 500 trees (a mixture of willow, alder, downy birch and rowan) from the effects of browsing within the field. Enclosures were constructed with the help of volunteers over 4 days.
Each enclosure was constructed using 1.8m long fence posts and 50mm x 1.65m wide galvanised wire mesh. Triangle enclosures were positioned with one point facing up stream to help deflect any debris being moved by the river during a flood.
Objectives
- Increase riparian trees along the river Balvaig
- engage volunteers with rivers through an activity
- Provide future shade for the river to lower water temperatures during hot days
Funder
This project was funded by the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park through their Heritage Grant Scheme.
