FLS asks visitors to check storm damage updates before arriving

Forestry and Land Scotland is reminding visitors to check storm damage updates on its website before visiting it’s forest in central Scotland.

The reminder comes as FLS re-opens the trail on Conic Hill, only day after a group of 40 walkers looking to make use of the trail had to be turned away.

Gill Walker, FLS’ Area Visitor Services Manager, said;

“We’ve had to prioritise our storm damage clearance and were only this week able to start the dangerous task of clearing the wind blow on the main forest path to Conic Hill in Balmaha.

“The damage caused as a result of Storm Eoywn was a shock but thanks to the skill, professionalism and diligence of our team, we have been able to make the route safe and passable.

“We appreciate that storm damage can cause some inconvenience for visitors but public safety – as well as the safety of our staff – is always paramount.

“That is why we always urge visitors to be patient and to give our teams the time and space they need to complete the work as safely and as safely as possible."

Visitors planning a trip to any FLS forest should always check the web site for the latest updates in case there are any issues affecting access.

Some storm damage in other forests is still to be cleared. FLS asks that all visitors -

•    always obey signage
•    stay well away from work areas
•    if a path or trail is blocked, turn back (if you can’t get through easily neither can emergency services)
•    do not walk around, climb over or duck under felled trees

Storm damage is not always easily identifiable. Trees felled in storms, hanging trees and even trees that are still standing can all be unstable and can roll, pivot, slide or fall at the slightest disturbance.

Root plates and stones can also suddenly topple, tip over, fall or roll away without any visible reason even days, weeks or months after a storm.

There can also be huge tension and forces both in individual trees as well as in jammed stems and root plates that need to be assessed by trained professionals before the long slow process of clearance work can begin.

Notes to Editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
2. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS
3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot