Notices and News

Last  update: 25th August 2010

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NEXT EVENT

Saturday 2nd October - 10.00 am

Ferns, Mosses & Lichens

A gentle walk with Botanist , Ian Benallick  Discover the variety of these plants which abound in The Valley.

Map Ref: SX 059 573

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MOTOR CYCLES IN THE VALLEY

The illegal use of motorcycles in the valley is a growing problem please have a look at the special 'Motorcycles' page in this section.

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GROUP EVENTS

If you are thinking of organising an event in the valley involving significant numbers of people please visit our 'Group Events' page in this section.

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PHYTOPHTHORA

Phytophthora is a fungus-like disease of vegetation spread by spores. Its common name is ‘Sudden Oak Death’  but it is not confined to Oak. It will, in fact, attack a large number of species.  There are two main varieties: P. ramorum, which has existed in the USA and Europe for some years, and a new strain, originating in Cornwall – P. kernoviae.  The kernoviae strain is more virulent than ramorum. The disease attacks many plants particularly certain shrubs and trees including those found in public and domestic gardens. It will be appreciated that the effect on forestry, nurseries and ornamental gardens could be serious.  The trees are infected by contact with infected shrubs and in both cases the infection is usually fatal.  The presence of the disease has been detected in Luxulyan Valley.  The most common culprit as a primary host in the undergrowth is rhododendron.  For this reason; contractors, working on behalf of DEFRA and Restormel Borough Council, have cleared large areas of rhododendrons in the valley.  The situation will now need to be monitored for at least four years and will include regrowth of rhododendrons as well as other shrubs such as bilberry.

How can you help?

Naturally we are concerned that your enjoyment of the valley is not spoiled.  However, by taking certain precautions now, we can help prevent the further spread of the disease and also preserve the health of the trees and other vegetation in the valley itself.  For the foreseeable future, therefore, we request that you observe the following guidelines:
 

• Park in recognised car parks
  
  
• Keep yourself and any dogs to footpaths.  This may involve keeping the dog on a lead. We know this is a blow but it may prevent more stringent controls being imposed.
  
  
• As far as possible clean boots before and after visiting the Valley.  This will help to prevent the spread of the infection to other places including your own garden.
  
  
• Do not bring in or take out cuttings of any shrubs or trees.

We hope that observance of these guidelines, at this stage, will be all that is necessary.  We would hate to see restrictions on access.  Please do all you can to comply.

Update January 2009:
The presence of Phytophthora in Bilberry has now been confirmed.

It is now even more important to observe these precautions.

For further information please visit the websites of DEFRA, The Forestry Commission or Cornwall Council (See ‘Links’)

Thanks for your help.

This item updated: 7th August 2009

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