Willow Hunt @ Falls Creek

There are places free on this event, if interested please register by end of the day Tues 13th Jan.

The Willow Hunt is an annual conservation event run by Parks Victoria and Bushwalking Victoria. After the 2003 alpine fires the Grey Sallow Willow colonised many of the state's alpine bogs, threatening these fragile and rare ecosystems. Those who volunteer as part of the willow hunt will be tasked with hiking to remote alpine bogs and removing any willow seedlings. This trip is a great opportunity to spend time wandering about in these special places and contributing to the future health and wellbeing of the unique plants and animals that make their home in these alpine bogs. If you're interested in ecology it's also a terrific chance to see how an invasive plant species interacts with local communities and a good example of a well coordinated control and monitoring program.

Trip details:

Each day groups will set off to designated bogs, with the objective of thoroughly scanning the bog for any seedlings and removing all plants. The removal process includes cutting the plant off at the base and applying a herbicide to the wound. We'll be working in groups, with volunteers from other clubs. This trip is suitable for beginners. Training with regards to using herbicides and safely removing the plants will be provided. You should feel comfortable walking off track carrying a small backpack and be of reasonable fitness.

Interested?

The organisers have asked for expressions of interest in the event in November 2015. The earlier you express interest, the more likely a place on this popular trip will be reserved for you. If you'd like to participate in the trip I encourage you to express interest in this trip as soon as possible, and I will forward details onto the organisers. If places are available in early January, I'll host a trip meeting on January 12th to finalise numbers.

Accomdation and Food:

This year accommodation will be provided in the Alpha Lodge at Falls Creek. Dinner will be provided on the Saturday night, but you should bring all other food.

Gear:

Sleeping bag, clothing for wet and hot weather, drink bottle, sunscreen, hat, sturdy shoes.

More details about the initiative - http://vnpa.org.au/page/nature- conservation/parks-protection/fighting-the-willow-menace