Mend Our Mountains Get Stuck In! Lake District (14th-15th August)

Many BMC members will enjoy using the Lake District for hill walking and climbing. In association with the National Trust and Fix the Fells, the BMC are arranging conservation projects in the Great Langdale. Works may involve path maintenance, drainage projects, stepping stones, vegetation clearance or cairn-scattering, led by the local National Trust Rangers. There will be three projects in the Lakes in 2024. The third project is being held on Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th August 2024.

Volunteers must attend both work days (Wednesday and Thursday). Accommodation is available in a FRCC bunkhouse for nights of 13th, 14th and 15th August so volunteers can enjoy a free day to enjoy the Lakes on Friday 16th August, after the work days. 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 the Lakes. 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. If we are doing stone pitching of paths, Fix the Fells requires us to use safety (steel toe-capped) boots. If you don’t have these, we can lend you some. Also, don’t wear your best mountain gear and new Goretex for this work: wear old gear and expect it to get muddy!

For those using the accommodation you will also need sleeping bag and pillow, spare clothing and food (to be discussed later).

Where will the work take place?

Precise location of the work will be decided nearer the time, but is likely to be on path up The Band in Langdale in the Lake District National Park.

Where is the accommodation?

Accommodation will be available in the FRCC climbing hut at Raw Head Barn, Great Langdale. See https://maps.app.goo.gl/c28SxrVX9MXny1aR8

Accommodation is available from the Tuesday night so that we can get an early start on Wednesday morning. Further joining details nearer the time.

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.