In association with the National Trust, the BMC are arranging conservation projects in the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia). Works may involve path maintenance, drainage projects, stepping stones, vegetation clearance or cairn-scattering, led by the local National Trust Rangers. There will be 4 projects in Eryri in 2024. The first project is being held on Monday 15th to Wednesday 17th April 2024.
Volunteers must attend both work days (Monday and Tuesday). Accommodation will be provided in a National Trust bunkhouse for nights of 14th, 15th, and 16th April so volunteers can enjoy a free day to enjoy Eryri on a social hike, or climbing, on Wednesday 17th. Maximum number of volunteers 12.
Why it’s worthwhile
Our uplands are under pressure as never before with increased footfall and rainfall, combining to produce increased erosion. This causes unsightly scars on the landscape and damages precious upland habitats. Path maintenance, which may involve drainage projects and vegetation clearance, is therefore very important.
What will the work involve?
Spending around 6 to 8 hours a day, working as part of a small team, supervised and directed by National Trust staff, in various conservation projects in Snowdonia. Precise project will be decided by the National Trust Rangers depending on number of volunteers and weather conditions at the time, but might include path maintenance, drainage projects, stepping stones, vegetation clearance or cairn-scattering.
What will you need to bring?
You will need to bring sturdy walking boots (gaiters recommended), waterproofs, warm layers and hat, along with sufficient food and drink, suitably equipped for a full day out in the mountains. You will also need a pair of heavy duty (gardening style) gloves. All other tools will be supplied by the National Trust. For those using the accommodation you will also need sleeping bag, camping mat and pillow, spare clothing and food.
Where will the work take place?
Precise location of the work will be decided nearer the time, but will be on National Trust land in the Eryri National Park. We have previously worked on the Watkin Path on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Cwm Bychan and in the Glyderau.
Where is the accommodation?
Accommodation will be available in a National Trust bunkhouse at Bwlch Mwlchan at the foot of Yr Wyddfa in Nant Gwynant (Grid reference SH 636 515; Pin: https://goo.gl/maps/J1hG73rY2UCyND2D8).
Final details will be circulated nearer the time but we will meet in the bunkhouse. However, as there is limited parking at the bunk house we may need to leave some cars at Hafod y Llan campsite car park (LL55 4NQ). This can be decided on the day. Try to arrive in the hours of daylight as finding the bunkhouse can be difficult after dark!!
There are approximately 25 beds, but people will need to bring their own pillow cases and sleeping bags. There is a drying room, shower facilities, a fully functioning kitchen, TV and WiFi.
NB: there is no phone signal in the valley, so please save any directions on your devices before you arrive. We will meet the NT Rangers at the Hafod y Llan at 8.30am each day.
Who can take part?
Adults only (older than 18). No dogs, sorry! Interested?
Registration will be by Eventbrite. At registration we will ask for a non-returnable £10 donation to Mend our Mountains (£5 for students and unemployed). This is an attempt to reduce number of people booking on to the events, but then cancelling at late notice. As well as free accommodation, we hope also to provide a communal meal on one night.
Places will be allocated on first come first served basis and priority given to those able to come for both days of the project.