The dam builders

Ross has kindly given me two projects to look after while I’m here at RSPB Abernethy.  One is to manage the roadside regeneration on one of the woodland tracks (Mondhuie), and the other is to build a series of dams to block some drainage ditches.  The ditches were dug shortly after world war two when trees were in short supply and much of the land was being used to produce a timber crop.  Now the RSPB are restoring the area, near Loch Garton, to it’s original bog wood habitat, to help the many species that live there.

It just so happens that dam building is a good team sport.  One person gets to put on a large pair of waders and stand in the ditch while the others dig turf, saw up some wood for the structure, stand in the plastic lining, and generally help pack the dam with peat and turf.  It’s also great to be able to see the results as the water level rises behind the dam.