A revolutionary new method for "Rhoddie Bashing"

18th October 2009

A new method of getting rid of the highly invasive, non-native species Rhododendron ponticum is being demonstrated at two training days in the Western Highlands.

"Lever and Mulch" is a simple, relatively inexpensive way of getting rid of this problem species, and the Skye & Lochalsh Environment Forum and Wester Ross Fisheries Trust have invited the technique's pioneers to demonstrate their remarkable rhoddie bashing skills at Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverewe Gardens.

James Merryweather, Chairman of the Skye & Lochalsh Environment Forum, said: "Conventional methods of eradication are labour intensive, hazardous when herbicides are used and also - of particular concern in times of recession - very costly. After rhododendron, land recovery can be painfully slow. None of this need be so.

"Gordon French and Donald Kennedy of Morvern Community Woodlands have devised a new method for the eradication of rhododendron that is already putting a stop to its relentless invasions of Morvern, Ardnamurchan and Knoydart."

Donald Kennedy explained: "Lever and Mulch is very simple, though those who use it require specific training. It consists of systematically dismantling rhododendron bushes, using the plant's own stems as levers, and then covering the place they were growing with their remains, to exclude light and prevent re-growth. A little work with a hammer then and in the following season is all that's needed to finish the job."

The events are being hosted by the National Trust for Scotland and Highland Councillor and Highland Biodiversity Partnership Chairperson Audrey Sinclair. She said: "This method is as eco-friendly as it gets, and can be done by a single fit person using gloved hands, booted feet, bodyweight, hammer, saw, Lever and Mulch specific skills and a hearty lunch."

Administrators, landowners, site managers, conservationists and contractors who wish to be rid of rhododendrons are invited to attend these events to see Lever & Mulch in action, discuss the rhododendron situation and give their thoughts on its eradication in the Highlands.

· Thursday 5 November (11am - 4pm): Kyle Village Hall, contact James Merryweather on Tel: 01599 566291, E-mail: james[AT]ukferns.org.uk

· Saturday 7 November (10am - 3pm): Inverewe Gardens (National Trust for Scotland), contact Peter Cunningham on Tel: 01445 712 899, E-mail: info[AT]wrft.org.uk

The events are funded by the Highland Biodiversity Partnership's Communities Project for Highland Biodiversity, which funded the initial trial onto this method in Lochaber. It is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund, and receives match funding from The Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Highlands & Islands Enterprise and RSPB Scotland.