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Puck’s Glen closes for three weeks as diseased trees removed

Pucks Glen car park and all trails leading from it are to close for three weeks from 14th February to allow the safe felling and extraction of trees infected with Phytophthora ramorum around the gorge.

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is closing the site both to ensure public safety and to carry out the required work and restore access in time for the Easter holidays.

Phytophthora ramorum, a tree disease that affects Larch, has infected trees at numerous sites across the Cowal area.

FLS Forester, Fraser MacDonald, said;

“Many of our forests in the area have been hit by the disease, Phytophthora ramorum. We are currently working on 41 active statutory plant health notices, served by Scottish Forestry, that require that infected trees – and those in a surrounding buffer zone – are felled in order to help slow the spread of the disease to other areas.

“We are aware that this amount of felling will impact on public access and we are doing all we can to minimise that disruption.

“We have therefore opted to get the required felling done at Puck’s Glen ahead of the Easter break. While work is being carried out, we would encourage everyone to visit an alternative destination. However, if this is not possible, visitors should follow all safety signage and advice.   

“We appreciate that this is short notice and apologise for any inconvenience this might cause."

The disease can be spread in mud or needles stuck to footwear and tyres on bicycles, buggies, machines and vehicles.

FLS’ Keep it clean advice urges visitors to ensure that footwear, bikes, kit and dogs’ paws are always clean before and after visiting any woodland.

Please check the website for updates Puck's Glen - Forestry and Land Scotland

 

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. forestryandland.gov.scot | 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