Teucheen Wood is of course a lovely spot to enjoy the warmer weather but it’s disappointing to see the woodland being mistreated over the past few weeks. It's important to 'Respect, Protect and Enjoy' our local woodlands and this means using them responsibly.
These images are of a large, uncontrolled fire pit in an area previously used for outdoor learning. The fire pit has been used to burn rubbish, seating logs and tree branches that were broken/cut from healthy trees.
There was no effort to clear this up, the fire left behind a large pile of ashes, burnt litter and has damaged the trees above it in total disregard for the safety of the woodland, its wildlife and the public.
Fires can easily become uncontrollable in a woodland setting creating a risk of major damage to the site, wildlife and also the public - especially when irresponsibly set.
We were able to clean up and dismantle the fire pit, returning the area to a more natural state with little trace of the damage it originally caused.
We also removed several bags of litter, glass and dumped items found in makeshift dens.
While we understand that den making can be a part of enjoying the woods, we ask that you please avoid damaging the woodland, using dumped material or leaving rubbish/litter behind in the process.
We ask that those visiting the woodland respect it and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code wherever possible. This includes leaving no trace (e.g disturbance, damage, littering) and never lighting open fires on the ground in woodlands or forests. It states:
“Wherever possible, use a stove rather than light an open fire. If you do wish to light an open fire, keep it small, under control and supervised – fires that get out of control can cause major damage, for which you might be liable. Never light an open fire during prolonged dry periods or in areas such as forests, woods, farmland, or on peaty ground or near to buildings or in cultural heritage sites where damage can be easily caused. Heed all advice at times of high risk. Remove all traces of an open fire before you leave”.
Teucheen Wood’s Tree Preservation Order provides additional protection to the woodland also makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy protected trees without permission from local authority.
More advice on responsible and safe use of outdoor can be found via the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot. If you have any further questions regarding visiting or using the woodland, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
Comments