Current Events and Activities

David Dale Avenue entrance to Lainshaw Woods. Photo by Cara Smillie
Main entrance to Lainshaw Woods in David Dale Avenue. Photo by Cara Smillie.

Woodland Management

Giant Hogweed is a dangerous invasive species that produces toxic sap. All parts of the plant should be avoided. We have produced an updated Giant Hogweed Identification Poster. Distribution of Giant Hogweed in the UK is widespread. It is often found near rivers and other watercourses. Around Stewarton, it is mainly found on or near the banks of the Clerkland Burn and Annick Water.

The charity’s regular Sunday-morning work sessions in July 2024 will be on the mornings of 14th and 28th July.

Recent work sessions have involved:

  • clearing up fallen trees and unblocking drainage channels in Lainshaw Woods
  • repairing footpaths and cutting back overhanging branches and vegetation
  • maintaining tree planting sites

We’re glad to have the help of three recently-joined, local volunteers who are getting involved as part of their work towards achieving Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Please get in touch if you would be interested in getting involved in future SWAT activities.

Clearing a fallen tree from a path in Lainshaw Woods. Photo by H. Callaghan.

Fundraising

The July page of the SWAT 20th Anniversary calendar is sponsored by Bell, Book & Candle – Home Interiors & Boutique, 31 High Street and Sophie Henry Candle Co. of 22D Main Street, Stewarton.

A full list of calendar sponsors and their contact details can be found on the Supporters Page and, of course, in the calendar itself.

Community Updates

A 24/7 Public Access Defibrillator is now installed in the vicinity of Lainshaw Woods. Find out more here.

Volunteers and Martin Boyle, of Solutions on Demand, with the defibrillator prior to installation

Some Recent Work Sessions

Volunteers planting native trees at the Rose Reilly Sports Centre, assisted by Rose herself
Volunteers removing rubbish from a stretch of Annick Water
Volunteers carrying out drainage works near the southern edge of Lainshaw Woods

Background of the Organisation

Stewarton Woodlands Action Trust is a voluntary environmental group, formed in 2004, that is made up of people from in and around Stewarton in East Ayrshire, Scotland.

Our Aims

The charity’s purposes are:

  1. To conserve, regenerate and promote the restoration of predominantly native woodlands in the geographical area of Stewarton as an important part of Scotland’s native environment for the benefit of the public.
  2. To advance education for the public benefit concerning the natural environment of the area of Stewarton.

Restoration of Native Woodlands

  • Planting of appropriate trees, flowering plants and other vegetation to help maintain and improve biodiversity
  • Helping to manage non-native, invasive plant species (NNIS) and prevent their spread

Education

  • Promoting awareness of the natural environment in and around Stewarton through the maintenance of a signed Nature Walk in Lainshaw Woods, publication of relevant information online, and delivery of presentations to local groups and organisations.

If you are local to the Stewarton area and want to get involved, or learn more about our activities, please contact us.