Volunteers open up views at Stanley Ghyll, Eskdale

Volunteers David and Sarah have been leading a group of people to remove invasive rhododendron from Stanley Ghyll, a Site of Special Scientific Interest in the Lake District. They have recently reached a milestone in the project and David shares an update in this blog.

A major long-term project to clear areas of rhododendron

We have just finished removing a ‘jungle’ of dense invasive rhododendron from Stanley Ghyll. This has been a major long-term project. Over the years there have been various attempts to clear areas of rhododendron, most have ended up being small-scale as the activity is very labour intensive.

Around seven years ago a more concerted effort was started involving larger work parties. Funding was secured to engage contractors to clear rhododendron from the steep sides of the ghyll using rope access. Since 2020 Sarah and I have led a small group who have worked every fortnight removing mature rhododendron by hand, this has involved an energetic digging out of all roots - no need to go to the gym after this! We have now removed several acres by this process. Any roots, or branches not cleared up will root again and start growing so a small dedicated group has been essential to keep this meticulous approach.

Why do we need to remove rhododendron?

Two significant drivers have required the removal of the rhododendron; firstly, a significant proportion of the site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which requires the removal of invasive non-natural species, and secondly, rhododendron is the primary host of the fungal disease Phytophthora ramorum which kills larch trees.

The project has opened up Lake District views

The results of our collective efforts have been very rewarding. It has opened up views that have not been seen for at least 60 to 70 years and has allowed a significant increase in biodiversity.

When the rhododendron canopy was in place it both smothered other plants and the rhododendron made the soil very acid, restricting any other plant growth. It also allowed the installation of the new viewing platform that gives a stunning overhead view of Dalegarth Force and views over Eskdale to Scafell.

We still have some rhododendron to remove outside the boundary wall, and the long-term task of dealing with re-growth and seedlings will continue permanently.

The site is now in a much better condition to show off its credentials as a rare example of Northern Temperate Rainforest.

Huge thanks to all the various volunteers and staff who have helped achieve this major milestone!

Walk the Eskdale Trail and visit Stanely Ghyll Force

Catch the La'al Ratty train from Ravenglass to Dalegarth and follow the metal fingerposts that are unique to the Eskdale TRail. An 8.5mile route with lots of points of interest on the way including Stanley Ghyll falls from the viewing platform, spot red squirrels, roe deer and buzzards, and visit the Roman Bath House.

For more information on this route visit our webpage: Eskdale TRail : Lake District National Park