Clearing and burning brash at Styal 20 Oct 2013

The new fish ladder is in at Styal and expected to be opened next week; the hydroelectric plant is coming along. The MNTV group helped clear the ground for these projects and this Sunday we were helping to clear the area for what will be the path for public access to the site. The fish ladder is expected to be a particular attraction it will be possible to watch the fish making their way up the ladder through a series of pools. Several large fish provided evidence that the ladder will certainly be used, as they tried unsuccessfully to leap the weir throughout the day.

Ten regulars turned out, all stalwarts of the group. Our task was to cut and burn brash from trees that had been felled. We were working in a very narrow area, muddy after the downpour the night before and with a steep slide down to the river for anyone who got too close to the edge.

Add to this a ranger who was felling and winching trees on the bank and it was clear there was good reason for extra caution and high-visibilty jackets. The day ended with us all muddy; but no-one took an unplanned swim in the Bollin. It turned out to be a pleasant, sunny day despite the forecasts, with the rain holding off until we had all left for home.

We cleared a lot, only being prevented from doing more by frequent halts when we all retreated to a safe distance while the ranger was winching up the felled trees.