Intensive Repair Weekend on Fells' Busiest Path in Lake District Completed
In the picturesque Lake District, a popular tourist destination known for its exceptional campervan sites, a dedicated volunteer-driven project called Fix the Fells is making a significant impact. The project, focused on repairing and maintaining the mountain paths to prevent erosion and protect the environment, recently organised a 'blitz' weekend, where over 100 volunteers worked together to maintain a busy trail despite challenging weather conditions.
The path maintenance aimed to make the route easier to walk on by prising out awkward, uneven stones and narrowing the path. The sides of the path were roughed up by creating humps and bunds to redirect people onto the path, and habitat holes were created to hold water on the path. Drainage was also added to take water away from the path, and bare soil was revegetated to prevent further erosion.
Isabel Berry, Fix the Fells Partnership Manager, encouraged people to stick to paths when walking and to visit the Fix the Fells website for support. The project carefully plans routes to reduce damage from foot traffic and protect sensitive wildlife habitats, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and bird nesting sites, like those for golden eagles.
Fix the Fells benefits from support by organisations such as The British Mountaineering Council's Get Stuck In project, which provides funding for materials and tools needed for the repairs. Their work is often carried out in partnership with conservation groups, landowners, and local authorities to balance access and preservation.
For more direct insights and updates, you can follow Fix the Fells activities and events on social media platforms like Instagram, where they post about volunteer work and restoration projects in the Lake District. Local visitor guides and websites related to the Lake District often mention them among major conservation and trail maintenance efforts.
For those planning a campervan trip to the Lake District, Peter Baber offers advice on where to park a campervan in the UK. More information about this can be found online.
In conclusion, Fix the Fells is committed to maintaining the Lake District's paths sustainably, ensuring a enjoyable experience for tourists and preserving the region's unique environment. By supporting their efforts, you can contribute to the conservation of this beautiful destination.
