A couple of months ago, local climber Rob Tresidder contacted the BMC concerned that parts of this famous crag were dissappearing beneath an encroaching canopy of scrub, saplings and large trees.

We got straight on to the issue, and arranged to meet the owners (the Forestry Commission) to see if they could help us out. The FC appreciated the value of the site for both climbers and local walkers, and because there were no overriding conservation concerns, we agreed to get cracking.

The first stage of the project kicked off last week with a team of skilled trees surgeons removing many saplings and trees between New Year Buttress and Fat Man’s Chimney on the main crag, and also near The Block and Railway Boulders. So, fingers crossed for a good summer, and we should see a substantial improvement in the cleanliness of the climbing in these areas.

Andy Powers (the FC’s, District Forester) said, “Once the BMC told us of the issues at Black Rocks we were keen to help and we have opted to fund the work from our own resources.
"Many famous climbers have cut their teeth on its technically difficult routes, while, for others, it offers a great day out in the forest. The work only took a day or so and will have no environmental impact, so it's a win-win situation."

The second stage of work is timetabled for later in the year, when the plan is to improve the overall aspect and views of the crag by thinning and felling the surrounding woodland area.

Many thanks to BMC volunteers Henry Folkard and Rueben Brown for their involvement, to the tree surgeons for their excellent work and finally to Andy Powers and the Forestry Commission for their ‘can do’ approach.

If your local crag would benefit from some hands-on management, the BMC’s Crag and Habitat Management guide offers a wealth of practical advice on how to get started, download it from the BMC website Here.

For more advice and how to apply for funding for work of this nature, contact Guy Keating, BMC Access & Conservation Officer (Regions) Here. 
 

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