People are being urged to stay away from many of Wales’ forests and nature reserves because of the damage caused by Storm Barrargh. Natural Resources Wales say early indications are that the impact of the storm has been “significant” with large areas of fallen tress at sites across the county.
Storm Darragh blasted through Wales last weekend with torrential rain and winds in excess of 90mph bringing travel chaos, destroying property, causing the cancellation of sporting and other events, and leaving tens of thousands of people without power. The storm has also taken its toll on the environment. Read about communities left without power for days following the storm
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) – the Welsh Government’s environment agency – say many miles of forest roads, walking trails and mountain bike routes are obstructed by fallen trees and branches and it will “take some time” to clear them. While the work is being undertaken the agency is advising people not to travel to NRW’s forests and reserves. They say while visitor centres are re-opening following the storm car parks and other facilities may need to be closed at short notice as the clean up operation continues. The agency says visitors should follow any instructions given by signs or local staff, including any trail diversions or closures, and be beware of the dangers of falling trees and branches.
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Caio Forest near Llandovery shows the impact of the storm -Credit:NRW
Gavin Bown, NRW’s head of operations for mid-Wales, said the storm had taken a “significant toll” on the land the agency manages, and said the improved weather this week has allowed staff to get to work on the big clean up. He said: “We’re inspecting our sites to assess the damage, and our land managers and contractors are prioritising work to clear blocked roads and trails. But this will take some time. The impacts we have seen will likely affect planned forest and harvesting operations for years to come.
“While we’re undertaking that important work to get your trails back to normal, those who use them for recreation are advised not to travel to our sites at this time. We are providing the latest information about the status of specific sites and trails on our website, and on our social media channels. You should always follow any instructions given by signs or local staff including any trail diversions or closures, and beware of the danger of falling trees or branches.”
Natural Resources Wales manages more than 300,000 acres of woodland and 76 National Nature Reserves across the county.
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