Inchgarth Biodiversity Initiative

Progress with the Inchgarth Biodiversity Initiative has come on in leaps and bounds, with three of the main objectives being carried out by Scottish Water in March 2025.  Their contractors ploughed and sowed the Winter seed crop and the wildflower meadow for pollinators and birds, both of which are now greening up nicely with the recent rain.  The two wader scrapes are also looking better, having dried out significantly during the long dry spell in the spring.   We will be planning a Bioblitz in the summer, and further work days in the autumn to continue to manage the site for wildlife. Watch this space!

Himalayan Balsam, an Invasive Non-Native Species, continues to spread rapidly along the Dee. Its aggressive seed dispersal (shooting its seeds up to 7 metres) and high nectar production attract pollinators to the detriment of native plants. Himalayan Balsam can promote river bank erosion as it dies back over winter, leaving the bank unprotected from flooding. 'Balsam Bashing' is a very therapeutic activity, and volunteers are still required to help with this. A working team representing various landowners, users & other interested parties in Lower Deeside has been formed to investigate a coordinated and targeted approach for dealing with this.

Volunteers needed

The Inchgarth Biodiversity Group of the Cults Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council is appealing for volunteers to assist in maintaining and improving biodiversity in the area. Further details from Claire Marsden at cbmcc@cbmcommunity.org.uk.