Community Balsam Bash at Lemahamish, Upper Forth

Join Forth Rivers Trust for a hands-on event, and learn as you help protect our local nature.  

Whether you can spare an hour or a whole morning, your help will make a real difference. No experience is needed, just wear sturdy footwear and long-sleeved clothes you don't mind getting muddy. We'll provide guidance and any necessary equipment.

Learn all about:

• How to identify Himalayan Balsam
• When to pull it - and when not to
• Why timing matters to stop it spreading

Hot or cold drinks and light snacks will be available throughout. Please bring midge repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of drinking water. 

This event is FREE, we ask that you register attendance by 'buying' a ticket so we have an idea of numbers when offering snacks! Either grab a ticket below, or register your interest by contacting Elijah (e.graham@forthriverstrust.org / 07789 901932).

Getting there:
Lemahamish car park is signposted off the quiet B-road between Cobleland Campsite and Gartmore Village.  Follow the forest road downhill and take a right at the forest cross road junction to reach the car park. If you are bringing a car, we strongly encourage car sharing where possible, to ensure adequate parking spaces are available at the site for locals and visitors.

The car park meeting point is also accessible by a beautifully scenic walk or cycle from either Aberfoyle, Balleich, or Gartmore, with spaces available to lock bikes nearby. 

Please car share where possible as parking is limited. 

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Maps location: maps.app.goo.gl/pCZUyyjX4YK5EtqB6

If you're having difficulty locating us on the day, please get in touch with Elijah on 07789 901932 and we will help out!

What to expect:

- Information about what Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) are, with a focus on Himalayan Balsam

- Opportunity to identify Himalayan Balsam and help remove it from the nearby River Forth

- Advice on how you can help identify and report INNS

- A satisfying conservation activity that will help protect local biodiversity and support your local river!