Bulldog Ratchet Pruning Shears BD31303 – Product Review

20mm cutting diameter ratchet pruning shears

Review by Michael Smith

I have to say that this is the first of those kinds of pruning shears that I ever really have had an opportunity to use and review.

Other manufacturers and vendors for some reason have been more than reluctant, to say the least, to part with one of those for a proper and thorough product review and I leave the reader to draw his or her own conclusions as to the why and wherefore of this.

Bulldog's representatives on IOG Saltex 2008 were more than happy to supply me with one of those and so far I must say that I am quite impressed with this tool.

It took a little while for me to get the proper hang of it as to the best way of using it but once that had been mastered it is just a great piece of kit.

The maximum cutting size, in my opinion, should not be exceeded when cutting hardwoods, whether green or not, such as apply, plum, oak, etc. While it may work alright with slightly larger branch diameters, I must say that I would not recommend doing it.

Once the “trick” of properly using the ratchet is mastered this pair of pruners cuts through quite thick branches without any real effort. Small pruning is best done with the topmost tip of the pruners as it is then just the single snip. This is very good for dead heading of roses and also general small pruning rather than using the cutting jaws further down that then still employs the ratchet, making the cutting process a little slower.

On larger material the ratchet makes cutting virtually effortless and I recently used it to cut back a Willow (Salix) and in this instance cutting material with diameters of 35mm and such without any problems. It must be considered thought that green willow is a rather soft wood.

I also used it to prune some apple trees and in that case I restricted myself to about the maximum given diameter for this pair of pruners and there as well very little effort and strength was needed for the cutting.

From what I have seen so far as to the performance and reliability I can, I think, very much recommend this model of Bulldog's pruners without any hesitation.

Once again another piece of kit that is of fine quality at a very reasonable price.

© M Smith (Veshengro), October 2008
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PREMIER LEAGUE GROUNDSMEN KEEP UP TO DATE WITH SYNGENTA TURF MANAGEMENT RESEARCH

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) recently collaborated with turf management specialist Syngenta over a recent fact-finding visit by Premier League groundsmen to the Syngenta Turf Research facility at Stein in Switzerland.

With 30 or so groundsmen in attendance – drawn from the Premiership as well as clubs such as Reading and Derby, and including grounds managers of the clubs’ main stadia and academy playing surfaces – the two-day trip provided exclusive insights into the company’s $850 million research and development programme, in addition to face-to-face discussions with officials from the Professional Footballers’ Association and the Premier League.

Chaired by IOG chief executive Geoff Webb, the first day’s programme enabled open discussions about the implications to the playing surface by such activities as warm-up periods.

On the second day, delegates toured the impressive facilities at Stein where Syngenta Turf Researcher Dr Eva Haensel explained that it can take over 10 years and cost around £100 million to create a new turf management product. She also highlighted how “it is crucial that each new innovation brings a significant advantage for groundsmen”.

She continued: “We rely on the direct feedback from groundsmen to ensure we are focusing on the development of products that are especially relevant to the issues being faced, as well as providing practical advice and techniques to ensure they can be used as effectively as possible.”

The research facility has been instrumental in developing the use of Primo MAXX on sports turf surfaces, as well as new turf fungicides planned for UK launch in 2009.

Darren Baldwin, grounds manager at Tottenham Hotspur FC, praised the Syngenta team for its hospitality and professionalism, and thanked the IOG’s Head of Sales & Marketing, Kevin Duffill, for such an appropriate programme of events.

“Being able to get so many Premier League grounds professionals together was an achievement in itself,” he said, “and we all found it really useful to exchange opinions and to present those views to the footballing authorities.

“In addition, of course, the visit to the research centre was a real eye opener – the level of Syngenta R & D is quite amazing, and it was really helpful for us to understand what goes into the development and testing of chemicals, for example, before they reach the market.”
Syngenta Turf Manager, Simon Elsworth, added: “We hope that having seen the investment and commitment that goes into developing products, visitors will have full confidence and assurance in the performance of Syngenta products on the pitch.”

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) is the leading membership organisation representing grounds managers, groundsmen, grounds maintenance managers, greenkeepers and all others involved in the management of sports pitches, landscape and amenity facilities in the UK. As well as maintaining the IOG Performance Quality Standards and providing a consultancy service for sports grounds, lawn maintenance and amenity horticulture, the IOG’s extensive Training and Education programme includes cricket, football, tennis, horseracing, bowls, artificial surfaces, turf science and many other specialist subjects. It also stages the annual IOG SCOTSTURF and IOG SALTEX exhibition, Europe’s leading show for the open space profession. For more information visit www.iog.org

Source: Wildish Communications Ltd
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IOG SCOTSTURF SPEAKER ASKS: IS INDUSTRY READY FOR THE 2014 COMMONWEALTH GAMES?

With an exclusive keynote speech by the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid Director and a comprehensive programme of informative seminars covering the latest in noise & vibration, corporate manslaughter, pesticides and training & education, the IOG Scotsturf show on November 5 & 6 at Edinburgh’s Royal Highland Centre offers an unrivalled opportunity to provide updates on all the issues affecting the grounds care and golf course industry in the north and Scotland.

The fact that the show will both enlighten and entertain visitors is also illustrated by the programme of live equipment demonstrations being planned alongside the IOG Scottish Football Groundsman of the Year and Cricket Scotland’s Cricket Groundsman of the Year Awards, also the Best New product Awards, plus more than 100 leading suppliers are displaying products which are being seen for the first time in Scotland.

One highlight of the show will be the keynote address on Wednesday 5 November by Derek Casey, Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid Director, who will ask ‘Are we ready for the challenge of Glasgow 2014? Is the industry prepared and able to play its part in delivering world class sporting venues?’ Derek’s probing presentation is certain to stir the audience!

The IOG Scotsturf seminar programme – which qualifies for IOG CPD, BASIS and NRoSO points – will comprise a series of not-to-be-missed sessions, including:

• Noise and vibration assessments – where are we now in workplace controls? Presented by the Health & Safety Executive.
• The Corporate Manslaughter Act – get the facts, by HSE Solutions.
• Pesticides and the law – new EU legislation is scheduled to be announced. Presented by The Amenity Forum.
• Training & education - improving productivity and performance, by IOG and Lantra.
• Residual pesticides – the facts, by Indigrow.
• Health & safety law – an expert view, by HSE Solutions.
  

Visit www.iogscotsturf.co.uk for more details and to pre-register for IOG Scotsturf - which is co-located with Road Expo Scotland, the only dedicated event for the roads and traffic management industry in Scotland.

Source: Wildish Communications Ltd
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IOG MAINTAINS MOODLE VIRTUAL LEARNING ROUTE FOR NEW LEVEL 3 ADVANCED NATIONAL CERTIFICATE

The Institute of Groundsmanship has announced the new Level 3 Advanced National Certificate in Sports and Amenity Turf Management as an easy-to-use, online career progression from skilled groundsman (Level 2) to supervisor/manager.

Following the success of providing the Level 2 National Certificate via its innovative Moodle online virtual learning environment – which enables participants to study for the qualification in their own time, or a time set by their employer, at a convenient pace and place – the new Level 3 Advanced National Certificate is offered on a similar flexible learning basis.

Developed by the IOG in conjunction with City & Guilds and NPTC, the Level 3 Advanced National Certificate incorporates eight compulsory units and one optional unit. The mandatory units are:

• Plant physiology in relation to the horticulture industry
• Maintaining health and safety in the amenity horticulture industries
• Management of weeds, pests and diseases
• Turf machinery and equipment management
• Working in the Turf grass industry
• Construction of sports and amenity turf areas
• Sustainable management of turf.
  

The optional unit aligns with the participant’s specific interest and covers the management of amenity, cricket, bowling, tennis, football, rugby, golf and horseracing turf. The structure of the qualification is such that candidates will have CPD documentation that shows clearly the sport option achieved.

The Level 3 qualification can be accessed by anybody who holds an equivalent Level 2 qualification such as the IOG National Technical Certificate (NTC), City & Guilds NVQ in Sports Turf Maintenance, or by anybody who can prove that they are/have been operating at a Level 3 standard.

Commenting, the IOG’s Head of Professional Services, Ian Lacy, says: “The overwhelming success of offering Level 2 via Moodle – the virtual learning environment pioneered and funded by the IOG – has emphasised why the IOG is the industry’s training and education supplier of choice, and the new Level 3 will further reinforce that.”

Source: Wildish Communications
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LONDON MULTI-TRADE SHOW PICKS UP THE PACE

With pick up coach routes agreed for British Hardware Federation (BHF) members, lunch/drinks vouchers for Home Hardware South West members, and the latest signings including Abus UK, Cathedral Products and Rothley, London’s Multi-Trade Show is picking up the pace getting ready for January 2009.

Plans for the 15th Show Conference are also firming up. It will run on the morning of Monday, 19 January in the Earls Court Conference Centre, alongside Earls Court 2. The first speaker to confirm is Richard Perks, director of retail research at Mintel, who will provide an overview of the sector for delegates. Brintex will announce further speakers shortly. The theme for the conference has been set as ‘DIY Retailing – What the future holds’.

“There is still plenty being done and details to clarify. Opportunities exist for exhibitors to enter products in our revamped New Product Piazza, as well as highlighting what exclusive deals they will be offering to visitors. TV shopping channel QVC has also asked to use the show this year to film new products and there are more partnerships to be finalised to ensure visitors literally get an easy ride to the show, but it’s coming together well,” commented show director James Murray.

He added, “Interest in exhibition space is growing steadily as companies recognise that without promoting their products their year could be even tougher – and we’re certainly ready and willing to help exhibitors shout about their new ideas and products!”

New exhibitors for Totally Tools include GT85 and Mewett Polyurethane who have rebooked from this year.

In Totally DIY new bookings include Laddermat, Rothley, Rug Doctor, Stadium Group, Urfic UK and William E. Selkin.

New show Totally Secure is shaping up with signings now including Abus UK and Cathedral Products.

Totally Tools, Totally DIY and Totally Secure will take place 18-20 January 2009 at Earls Court in London. For further details and a full list of current exhibitors please contact show organiser Brintex on 020 7973 6401.

Source: The Press Office Ltd.
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Leaf raking against the Horse Chestnut Leaf Miner Moth

November 8 is Day of Action “Save our Horse Chestnuts”

by Michael Smith

A nasty parasite is already for a number of years been plaguing the white-flowering Horse Chestnut. In Germany this pest has now reached all areas and also in Britain it is spreading like wild fire. From its arrival in 2001/2002 in the Wimbledon area of South London it has now spread to most parts of Southern Britain.

This parasite is bringing an early autumn to our beloved Horse Chestnut, the tree that brings fun and games to the children of the British Isles, in the form of the conker game (as long as the schools and authorities try not to ban it) and simply collecting the chestnuts. As children we also made little animals and people and little baskets out of the conkers. In August already all the leaves have dried out and it looks like Fall has arrived.

The parasite responsible for this, the Horse Chestnut leaf miner moth (Cameraria ohridella), has no natural enemies, neither in Germany nor in the British Isles. It was always said that a wet summer and wet winters would kill the moth and the eggs of the moth that overwinter in the fallen leaves but, alas, this does not seem to happen for the last two summers in Britain were very wet and the moth still has caused great damage again in 2008. Despite intensive research no antidote has as yet been found against this damaging insect.

The until now only effective countermeasure against it is to collect all the fallen leaves as soon as possible and to burn them in a sanitary way. This is the only way to prevent that the eggs of the moth that overwinter in the fallen leaves turn into larvae.

In Germany the Schutzgemeinschaft Deutscher Wald calls already now for a number of years upon communities and cities to take part in the collection action and to encourage their residents to take part in this.

The city of Essen in North-Rhine-Westphalia (Germany) is leading the way here in that sacks are provided free of charge for residents to be able to collect the leaves, which are then collected by the municipality and burned in a waster incinerating heating plant.

Those communes that have been taking part in this action of collecting of fallen leaves for a number of years now can prove that it works in that their Horse Chestnuts are once again green until at the right time in late autumn.

Collecting and burning the fallen leaves is the only way to rid ourselves of this pest that so badly affects our Horse Chestnut.

While the Horse Chestnut Leaf Miner Moth not necessarily causes the death of the trees it will, over time, however, weaken the trees and allow other pathogens and parasites to destroy the trees.

© M Smith (Veshengro), September 2008
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Bulldog Mini Bypass Pruning Shears BD3150 – Product Review

Review by Michael Smith

The Bulldog BD3150 mini bypass pruning shears are a very nice and handy little pair of pruners for the cutting back of live or 'green' foliage and also capable of basically all small pruning tasks. In my opinion those pruners are also great for children who wish to help in the garden. Yes, I do know that they are cutting tools and sharp but they will never learn how to do things if they are not permitted to learn when young.

The cutting capacity is 6mm which is just under 1/2 inch in old money. However, it is probably possible to cut a little thicker pieces like that. It all depends on what material they are. While I would not suggest to cut a 3/4 inch apple twig or one of other hard wood with this pair of pruning shears it it, however, possible to cut bramble runners of that size and even bigger, especially if they are “green”.

While an ideal little pair of pruning shears for the home and also the allotment gardener they are also suitable for the professional when about generally in case there is something to be that needs dead heading, whether roses or flowering plants in general. In addition it is also an ideal small pair of secateurs for the Park and Countryside Ranger on patrol should the need arise to cut some bramble runners or such clear from a path to protect the public from injury. It is the small size here that comes in at the forefront, allowing it to just be slipped into a pocket or a notebook belt pouch or such.

Those mini bypass pruners are also brilliant for harvesting produce in your veggie garden or plot, whether those be beans or other vegetables, and do a much better job than garden scissors, for instance.

The grip is a soft elastomer kind of material than makes using them a pleasure.

Priced at an RRP of £8.44 they hardly break the bank and as with all Bulldog tools we are talking quality at an affordable price. I know that you can get secateurs for less than £3 or even for as low as 99pence but what are you getting there?

The only one thing that I am not too sure about, I must say, as to reliability and durability, is the yellow – in the case of the green handles version of the BD3150 mini bypass pruning shears that I was given for review – plastic sliding lock. I would have rather seen something like the lock on the BD3152 bypass pruning shears. In use I find that at times that lock slides forward and, in fact, locks the shears. This is, though, not the only kind of lock on secateurs that I have a problem with. The old style, as on the afore mentioned BD3152 – the clasp on the bottom of the handles – still takes a lot of beating. The spring too, maybe, just maybe, could do with, in my opinion, being just a little bit stronger.

However, this small pair of mini pruners is something that many people will have been waiting for, and also those gardeners that want to be able to allow their youngsters a go in the garden with dead heading and such but the secateurs on the market in general are too large to really be able to do that. These mini pruning shears will, certainly, bridge that gap.

© M Smith (Veshengro), September 2008
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IOG SALTEX SUPPORTS PERENNIAL HORTICULTURE CHARITY

Perennial - Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Society is being supported at this year’s IOG SALTEX show, with collection boxes located around the showground dedicated to the national charity for those who work or have worked in horticulture. Perennial provides help, advice and support people from the grounds care industry, arborists and other horticultural trades, when they are experiencing need or difficulties.

Debbie Lyne, the charity’s Director of Marketing and Fundraising, said: “We’re delighted to have been chosen as the IOG SALTEX Charity of the Year for 2008. Perennial is not yet that well known among grounds care staff and others who attend and exhibit at IOG SALTEX, and we’re extremely grateful to everyone at the IOG for providing us with this opportunity to raise our profile among its membership and with other visitors to the show.”

Perennial’s stand will be situated in the Training and Development Hub, opposite the South Entrance.

For more information on Perennial and its services, visit www.perennial.org.uk.

Source: Wildish Communications Ltd

IOG SALTEX HELPS COUNCIL TEAM REDUCE THE HARD WORK OF LEISURE SERVICES

With responsibility for 309 hectares of major urban and country parks, 65 play areas and numerous small areas of open space, the Leisure Services department of Swale Borough Council faces a major challenge to maintain and improve the region’s green landscape.

Located on the North Kent coast between London and Dover, the council provides a host of services to residents in Sittingbourne, Sheppey, Faversham and the surrounding parish areas.

Its leisure team of seven people includes 36-year-old Alan Marolia, the borough’s Parks and Children’s Play Officer, who has worked for the council for the past nine years.

Responsible for a £1.2 million annual grounds maintenance budget as well as other significant amounts to spend on play area maintenance, including major lottery funding, his role is multi-faceted.

“We effectively see our responsibilities as covering pretty much any area that is green - that includes allotments, playgrounds, roadside verges and cemeteries as well as parks and gardens, recreation grounds and playing fields. Across the borough we need to ensure the broad range of public green space is maintained to the highest standard.”

For Alan Marolia, a key part of that delivery is an annual ‘catch-up’ visit to IOG SALTEX, an event he has been attending since his student days.

“My background even before joining the council has always been in horticulture, working in commercial nurseries, garden centres and landscaping, so IOG SALTEX has always been important to me. The only difference today is that when exhibitors see my name badge they are slightly more willing to talk to me than when I visited as a student - but I’ve got a long memory,” he jokes.

Last year he returned to the show with several leisure services colleagues. “Windsor is only an hour away so we go up on the opening morning and make a real day of it. It’s good for teambuilding and we all have our own areas of specialism so between us we can cover large sections of the show.”

With specific responsibility for grounds maintenance and play, he finds that the show assembles everyone and everything he needs. “I find it incredibly beneficial because not only do I check out the very latest in plant, equipment, chemicals and even legislation, I also get the opportunity to catch up with people whose help and advice is invaluable.

“It’s not just salesmen that you meet on the stands but managing directors, area managers, other client officers and basically like-minded people who share a professional interest in all things horticultural.”

For him, another most important aspect is the ability to ‘see, touch and feel’ equipment, something that no amount of web surfing or reading of product literature can achieve.

“If you’re buying a new car you want to test drive it rather than just order off a catalogue picture. It’s the same with new play equipment. If I’m spending £20k-£30k, I want to actually see how it looks and performs before I invest.”

Swale Borough Council has, in fact, purchased from an IOG SALTEX exhibitor new sets of play equipment that have been incorporated into urban play area schemes.

Although the council’s leisure services team goes to the show with some specific ideas on who and what it needs to see, Alan Marolia is also a firm believer in having a good browse round and discovering stands that might not have been on the original target list.

“While I’m disciplined in terms of identifying what I definitely need to see at the show, I would always recommend having a look at some of the less obvious exhibitors. There are always new, interesting and different products and services to see and, with the best interests of our council residents in mind, that’s why it’s so important my team goes to the show every year.”

Spource: Wildish Communications Ltd

Fly tipping on the rise

by Michael Smith (Veshengro)

Fly tipping of rubbish seems to be on the increase everywhere

Ever since the changes in refuse collection in many many local authorities those with connections to parks, open spaces and countryside and their management see and report more and more incidents of fly tipping.

While it used to be that fly tipping would be an occasional occurrence and it would generally be building refuse or tree clipping that a “tree surgeon” dumped now it is household rubbish of all kinds and green waste.

This is, however, hardly surprising seeing that so many local authorities have gone over to a fortnightly refuse collection and/or charge so much per bin liner per week and/or will not permit more than one bin bag put out per week and also charge horrendous annual fees for small little bags for removing garden rubbish (green waste) that once would be collected free.

The biggest problem in the UK is that the governments, local and central alike, seem to like to fine and charge people rather than to give them (financial) incentives to go recycling, and such.

While the amount of waste collected from the kerbside may be going down and hence the waste going into landfill via standard refuse collection trucks the amount of fly tipped rubbish, on the other hand, in parks, open spaces and countryside, as also back alleys in towns and cities, is on the increase; in some case the increase has been 100% plus.

The entire idea of fortnightly rubbish collections and the fines and charges and all that are rather a shot in the foot as the cleaning up of the dumped rubbish costs time and money – more than that what is being saved. Only, often it comes from different budgets and hence no one seems to notice the link and it goes through different sets of statistics. While there are savings on one side no one notices the increase in costs for cleaning up fly tipped rubbish on the other side and no one of those that sit in ivory towers seem to see the link between the two factors, namely the reduction of waste collection, e.g. from weekly down to fortnightly; the silly ideas of just one bin liner per household or otherwise extra charge; and all that, and the increase in fly tipped refuse. It would appear that only the guys on the ground, namely park staff and countryside management staff seem to – at least some of them – make the connection between the two, as do many ordinary residents of areas where this is happening.

While in the statistics the fact that there is less rubbish from the standard household and trade waste collections going into landfills is being highlighted it seems to be forgotten that somewhere along the line the fly tipped rubbish also will go into landfill. It is therefore a rather doubtful set of statistics that state that there is less going into landfill.

Maybe the departments need to compare data and then, and only then, will we get a true picture and maybe, just maybe, the authorities will figure out that there may be a better way than charging and fining people into becoming “green”, as that does not work.

In order to stop our parks, open spaces, countryside and back alleys of villages, towns and cities from drowning in fly tipped rubbish we must find another way. That way can only be to encourage people – by incentives, whether financial – though best – or other wise – to bring their refuse for recycling. It works in the USA for instance with recycling centers paying good money for aluminium drinks cans, plastic bottles, glass bottles, etc., with people making a living from going around and picking up such cans, bottles, and such like from the countryside and also even from out of the municipal litter bins in towns and parks, and elsewhere.

It is a proven fact that most offenders in the realm of fly tipping are never ever caught or brought before the courts and, therefore, people will continue to dispose of their rubbish elsewhere if the keep being charged more and more for the municipal rubbish collections, and when they have to pay at the centers for the disposal of their refuse, or face additional charges and fines for putting out a rubbish bin at the wrong day and such.

Where does that leave parks and open spaces? The short answer to this is “covered in trash”.

So, what can be done about it?

Fines only work as a deterrent if people are actually caught fly tipping and are convicted. The chances of this happening are, however, relatively low. Out of a 1000 people who commit such acts of fly tipping probably less than 990 are being caught and convicted; hence there is no deterrent. And education is also, more likely a lost cause.

The only feasible way to go is that of financial incentives to get recyclables to the recycling centers, whether those are operated by the municipalities or the private sector, like in the USA, and to stop the stupidity as to waste collection regulations as they stand at present, e.g. the fines for bins out at the wrong day; refusal to empty bins where there is a little more rubbish in them than there, maybe, should be in there, and all that. If we do not get sensible now we will see an ever increasing amount of fly tipping and of rubbish littering our open spaces.

Time for a real good rethink at government level, local and central.

© M Smith (Veshengro), August 2008
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DONAL KEARNEY APPOINTED IOG REGIONAL ADVISOR FOR IRELAND

After 12 months as the Institute of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) part-time Education & Development Officer, Ireland, Donal Kearney has now been appointed full-time IOG Regional Adviser, Ireland.

The move is another progressive step in the IOG’s Challenging Perceptions strategy and it complements the recent appointment of Ian Mather Brewster as Regional Advisor for the North. Both are new full-time positions created by the IOG.

As IOG Regional Advisor, Donal’s role as the ‘man on the ground’ for local IOG branches will also involve continual improvement to the current IOG education and training arrangements throughout Ireland.

Accredited with an MSc in Sports Surface Technology, a BSc in Turf Science & Golf Course Management and a Diploma of Sportsturf Management, Donal will also handle the IOG’s research and development programmes, as well as technical issues, liaising closely with the IOG’s Head of Professional Services, Ian Lacy.

Donal brings to the role an extensive background of golf course construction and maintenance, and turfgrass expertise. His job roles in the sports turf sectors began at apprentice level right up to management on some of the finest golf courses in Ireland, the UK and in the USA. His ‘hands-on’ practical experience complements his technical knowledge gained at university, most recently at a Department of Justice rehabilitation project in Dublin with the PACE organisation as Horticultural Instructor.

A keen sportsman and supporter of the G. A. A. – particularly Gaelic football and hurling – Donal says of his new role: “When I was appointed in 2007 as Education & Development Officer, I said then that Ireland’s grounds care professionals are very progressive and there is enormous potential for even further advancement in the industry.

“One year on and nothing has changed! These are very exciting times for the IOG especially in Ireland as it continually implements the developments outlined in its Challenging Perceptions strategy to improve both the professionalism and wider recognition of the industry.”

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) is the leading membership organisation representing grounds managers, groundsmen, grounds maintenance managers, greenkeepers and all others involved in the management of sports pitches, landscape and amenity facilities in the UK. As well as maintaining the IOG Performance Quality Standards and providing a consultancy service for sports grounds, lawn maintenance and amenity horticulture, the IOG’s extensive Training and Education programme includes cricket, football, tennis, horseracing, bowls, artificial surfaces, turf science and many other specialist subjects. It also stages the annual IOG SCOTSTURF and IOG SALTEX exhibition, Europe’s leading show for the open space profession. For more information visit www.iog.org

Source: Wildish PR
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IOG SALTEX PITCH CONSTRUCTION DEMONSTRATIONS TAKE LESSONS FROM THE ROMANS!

A fascinating daily programme of ground stabilisation techniques for synthetic sports surfaces is being staged in the Pitch Construction Area at IOG SALTEX (Windsor, 2-4 September) by Smith Construction, a pioneer in applying the process in the sports surfacing industry.

Originally established in a basic form during Roman times, the technique now is a civil engineering discipline based on proven formula and widely used for large scale civil engineering projects like aircraft runways, highways, quays and railways.

The ground stabilisation process being demonstrated for the first time at IOG SALTEX will show the successive build stages of an all-weather pitch, beginning with soft and muddy ground and progressing through the stabilisation sequence using stone, tarmac and rubber shock pad and, finally, various synthetic grass sports surfaces.

According to Smith Construction’s project development manager Jeanette Munton: “Being the only company offering this stabilising technique as well as traditional build methods, we know IOG SALTEX is the ideal venue to demonstrate the capabilities of a cost-effective process that reduces environmental impact and provides excellent results all year round, even on poor ground.

“With visitors from across the open space spectrum – including decision-makers responsible for all types of sporting venues and surfaces - the demonstrations will undoubtedly appeal to the show’s wide-ranging audience.”

Register NOW at www.iogsaltex.co.uk to receive your FREE entry badge and information about IOG SALTEX, or call the Ticket Hotline for FREE tickets on 0844 557 2724.

IOG SALTEX 2008 will be held on 2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.

Source: Wildish PR
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AEA MACHINERY DEMONSTRATIONS HELP IOG SALTEX COME ALIVE!

NEWS RELEASE

An exclusive series of daily demonstrations of machinery and equipment from AEA member companies combines with the Ernest Doe Specialist Dealer Centre (featuring Acacia Groundcare Rental) to create the new AEA Live Machinery feature area at this year’s IOG SALTEX open space management show on 2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse.

Showcasing a wide range of machinery, the programme of demonstrations organised by the AEA (Agricultural Engineers Association) will include:

• Amazone’s Profihopper scarifier/mower
• Bomford Turner’s Golfmaster Buzzard 8 mower;
• Charterhouse’s Vertidrain aerator;
• The Countax Bear Cut chipper;
• Ernest Doe – EP Barrus’ UTV Plus tractor and outfront mower (plus equipment from Wiedenmann, and IPU’s Ferris 5100 and Dual drive 36 inch mowers);
• Martin Lishman’s ML Promidi Spray skid and ML Pro tractor-mounted midi spray
• McCormick’s CT 28 compact tractor;
• New Holland’s Boomer compact tractor (featuring Supersteer); and
• Reco’s zero turn mowers.
  

In addition, the AEA Live Machinery Demonstration Area will also incorporate the Ernest Doe Specialist Dealer Centre, featuring Acacia Groundcare Rental, where a wide range of machinery and kit will be on show to illustrate Ernest Doe’s activities and expertise. The area will also include parts and service workshops.

Register NOW at www.iogsaltex.co.uk to receive your FREE entry badge and information about IOG SALTEX, or call the Ticket Hotline for FREE tickets on 0844 557 2724.

IOG SALTEX 2008 will be held on 2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.

Source: Wildish PR
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DC Kimpton Hotel Garden Party to Benefit the Trust for Public Land

NEWS RELEASE

Washington, DC: Calling all eco-conscious Washingtonians! Get outdoors for a great cause at the 'Kimpton Hotels Garden Party,' on Wednesday, July 9 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The "green" cocktail benefit will be held at Poste Moderne Brasserie's newly expanded "Garden"-the popular outdoor courtyard, tucked away behind the bustling restaurant. The event will support The Trust for Public Land (TPL), the only national nonprofit dedicated to conserving land for public recreation and enjoyment. TPL has protected more than 2.4 million acres including over 100,000 acres in the Chesapeake Region alone.

Guests will be treated to tastes from Chef Robert Weland's newly launched Garden Menu, which features simple, casual fare using organic and sustainable ingredients. At the Garden Party, guests will be invited to tour Chef's outdoor garden filled with organic herbs and vegetables as well as a 'tomato forest' of in-season heirloom tomato plants.

To complement the fresh garden fare, Poste's award-winning mixologist Rico Wisner will shake up eco-chic liquid libations featuring Square OneTM Organic Vodka. The specialty cocktails will be offered at happy hour prices ($5), and all proceeds will be donated to TPL. Guests can bid on the chance auction to win a variety of green-themed prizes including weekend getaways at Kimpton's eco-friendly hotels.

There will be a $10 door admittance fee for the event, which will include tickets for two complimentary cocktails and Garden hors d'oeuvres. All proceeds from admission fees, specialty drinks and auction items will go directly to The Trust for Public Land. To RSVP or for more information, call 202-661-2707 or e-mail aileen.deluna@kimptonhotels.com. Poste Moderne Brasserie is housed in the Hotel Monaco Washington DC, and is located at 555 8th St, NW, within a block of the Gallery Place Metro Station.

The Garden Party is jointly hosted by Kimpton Hotels' seven DC properties, including Hotel Palomar Washington DC, Hotel Helix, Hotel Rouge, Topaz Hotel, Hotel Madera, Hotel George and Hotel Monaco Washington DC. The event is part of Kimpton's nationwide campaign to raise money for TPL's Parks for People initiative. Kimpton has always held a strong, eco-friendly outlook throughout all levels of the organization, which includes a sense of responsibility, appreciation and care for the planet. The Trust for Public Land partnership-and Kimpton's EarthCare initiative as a whole-demonstrates the company's unyielding commitment to making a difference for the environment on a local, national and global level.

More information CLICK HERE

Source: The Trust for Public Land

IOG SCOTSTURF TEAMS UP WITH ROAD EXPO TO HELP LOCAL AUTHORITIES SINGLE-SOURCE BUSINESS DECISIONS

With over 70 exhibitors already confirmed, plus an unmissable series of education presentations and exciting live product demonstrations, as well as award ceremonies including the Institute of Groundsmanship’s Scottish Football Groundsman of the Year, this year’s IOG Scotsturf exhibition on November 5 & 6 at Edinburgh’s Royal Highland Centre is on course to be more beneficial than ever to open space professionals across all sectors.

In addition, because the show is this year co-located with Road Expo Scotland – the only dedicated event for the roads and traffic management industry in Scotland – IOG Scotsturf will forcibly reinforce its relevance to all local authority decision-makers, complementing its standing as a must-see event for all golf course and grounds care professionals.

Last year’s IOG Scotsturf was attended by more exhibitors and visitors than ever before, and Show Manager Roy Daniels says the year-on-year support for the event is founded on the presence of a varied mixture of exhibitors – many of which display products for the first time in Scotland - as well as a programme of show features designed to add tremendous value to the time spent there by visitors.

“In addition to a comprehensive range of products to suit every budget and designed to make life easier and more effective, IOG Scotsturf works hard to ensure that its free education seminars address all the issues of relevance,” he says.

“With Road Expo taking place simultaneously in an adjoining hall, the multi-discipline decision-makers from local government throughout Scotland and the North of England this year have the ideal showcase to see, source and secure everything they need in one place and at the same time.”

Visit www.iogscotsturf.co.uk for full details of IOG Scotsturf, including an up-to-date exhibitor list.

Source: Wildish Communications Ltd & IOG Saltex
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Barbecues and (open) Fires

by Michael Smith (Veshengro), RFA

With the summer season now being upon us many, I know, will want to go out into the parks and open spaces and the countryside for a picnic and such.

However, please note that BBQs and fires of any kind are not permitted in most parks and open space, on most if not indeed all commons and in woods. The exception are those parks and woodlands that have specific areas expressly for BBQs and such. Then, however, such activities are ONLY permitted in such designated areas.

Aside from the damage even a BBQ, of the instant variety especially, let alone a fire, can do to turf, summer time increases the risk of such a small thought to be harmless event getting out of hand turning into a major conflagration, involving unnecessarily the Fire Services, is extremely high. Not only are there the costs involved of the call out of the fire brigade – which would have not necessary had the BBQ or fire not been lit in the first place, there are other costs involved too, as in damage and loss of habitat and also loss in wildlife. Such an event, getting out of hand, can even involve the loss of life.

Something to remember when you go out into parks and countryside during summer.

While no one wants to diminish your enjoyment of parks and countryside at the same time such activity, especially if resultant in a major fire, not only reduces the enjoyment of parks and countryside for others; it also can endanger lives. Your own life, that of your loved ones, and that of others.

The lighting of barbecues and fires in areas not authorized for this is regarded as arson in most places and will be prosecuted as such. No one, however, wants to have to do this so, therefore, please refrain from BBQs and other fires, with the exception where authorised.

Enjoy the summer and your parks, open spaces and countryside but without the added risk from a BBQ for wildlife and habitat.

The great English picnic – of whatever fare, whether traditional or ethnic – is always welcome in such places. Just not, necessarily, barbecues.

Have a great summer in the great British parks and open spaces.

© M Smith (Veshengro), RFA, June 2008

IOG SALTEX HELPS RACECOURSE GROUNDSMAN MAINTAIN HIS WINNING STREAK

The going’s been good for Richard Bradley, head groundsman at Great Yarmouth Racecourse, since he switched sports after starting his career at the local golf club. He got the seven-year itch while watching the horse racing from neighbouring Great Yarmouth & Caister Golf Club, where he served his apprenticeship. “The grass looked greener on the other side,” he laughs.

Seven years later, he shows no sign of succumbing to the same urge to move on and loves his role at the racecourse, including his annual pilgrimage to IOG SALTEX at Windsor.

This year will be his sixth visit on the trot and he relishes the chance to view the latest innovations in the grounds care sector. “I like to keep up to date with technological developments - in machinery, grass and fertilisers,” he says.

He has a thirst for knowledge, too: during his stretch at the golf club, he undertook three years of formal education at college. Keeping on the learning curve is important to him, he says – which is another good reason for making the long trip to Windsor: it’s usually a minimum of a three-hour drive each way but well worth the effort.

Last year’s launch of the show’s Skills Village proved irresistible, he reflects, but he has one regret: “The seminars are great if you have time to go to them, but there just isn’t enough time if you only attend the show for a single day, as I do.”

His approach is to cherry-pick his way round the event, swapping information with fellow groundsmen – “it’s great to meet up with people who work in sports turf as well as on racecourses” - and making use of the knowledge of the exhibitors. He is usually accompanied by the racecourse’s Clerk of the Course and other members of staff. “For the more junior members, the show is definitely very educational and there’s plenty to learn,” he says.

Richard Bradley oversees three other groundstaff and as part of what is a varied programme of work together they are responsible for maintaining the racing surface in prime condition, as well as the overall preparation and presentation of the site and surroundings.

“The most demanding aspect of my work is the hectic racing schedule. Throughout the racing season, meetings are scheduled close together including two/three day meetings, which means there is a tight turnaround to ensure the racing surface and site are up to scratch and ready. The workload is heavy and demanding.”

It is to improve the methods used in managing the racecourse that he says is the prime reason for attending IOG SALTEX. As the show is held during a break in the racing calendar, the timing is “just right”, he adds.

“The event showcases developments in the industry that will make our lives easier and allow us to do our jobs better. Last year, for example, I went with the specific hope of finding a new batwing mower to replace the front-mounted vortex and blower powered by a 75 HP tractor that I currently use. I found what I wanted but, unfortunately, budget restrictions have so far prevented me from ordering it.”

The chance to press the flesh with industry suppliers is also important to him. “It’s an ongoing thing: I’m always looking for ways to save money without compromising the quality of the racing surface. I’ll look at the grass seed, soil, sand and fertiliser at the trade stands. IOG SALTEX is cracking for those.”

• IOG SALTEX 2008 will be held on 2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.

IOG SALTEX’S NEW SHOW FEATURES KEEP PACE WITH THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE

With new and exciting dedicated landscape equipment product displays and demonstration areas, as well as the annual World Skills UK Landscape Gardening final plus daily presentations on the impact of the new National Highways Sector Scheme 18 legislation, landscape professionals have plenty of reasons to visit this year’s IOG SALTEX open space management show (2-4 September, Windsor).

New this year for IOG SALTEX – and specifically designed to appeal to landscape contractors of every size – are:

• The AEA Live Machinery Demonstration Area;
• The Ernest Doe Specialist Dealer Centre, featuring Acacia Hire; and
• The Landscape Village – featuring hard and soft landscaping and plants, and a host of dedicated exhibitors.

The daily programme in the AEA (Agricultural Equipment Association) Live Machinery Demonstration Arena will feature machinery from AEA member companies including Amazone, Bomford Turner, Charterhouse, Countax, EP Barrus, Ernest Doe, FGM Claymore, Martin Lishman, New Holland, McCormick, Reco, plus many more.

With equipment on view and in action, visitors will have the opportunity to question suppliers face-to-face about machine capabilities – and costs!

Visit www.iogsaltex.co.uk for the programme.

In addition to running demonstrations in the Live Machinery Arena, Ernest Doe will also be displaying a wide range of machinery and kit in the Ernest Doe Specialist Dealer Centre to illustrate all aspects of its business and to demonstrate the full scope of its expertise.

After-sales support is a ‘must-have’ for every user, so the company will also be offering invaluable parts and service workshops. Again, visit www.iogsaltex.co.uk for full details.

With Doosan and Terex, in particular, supplying compact equipment ideal for landscaping, the nearby Landscape Village will feature a host of companies displaying products targeted at the landscape profession. For example:

• B&Q
• Buildbase
• Geosynthetic Technology
• Hedgemaster
• Iron Stop
• Kongskilde
• Mainstream Irrigation
• Postpullers
• Premier Trees
• RMB Craftscapes
• Thornton Sports
• Village Gardens
• Wave Seven Marine

Meanwhile, as well as working on behalf of UK Skills by organising the annual World Skills UK Landscape Gardening final, in the racecourse Grandstand BALI will also be playing a key role in the show’s education programme by organising daily presentations on the new National Highways Sector Scheme 18 ‘for quality management in highway works’ legislation.

The new regulations will impact everyone involved in providing services relating to the environment and landscape, so for landscape professionals, in particular, this will be an unmissable opportunity to gain up-to-date and pertinent advice and help from the experts on such a critical issue.

Register NOW at www.iogsaltex.co.uk to receive your FREE entry badge and information about IOG SALTEX, or call the Ticket Hotline for FREE tickets on 0844 557 2724.

• IOG SALTEX 2008 will be held on 2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.

‘MINI STONEHENGE’ BRINGS NATURAL PLAY UP-TO-DATE AT IOG SALTEX

In addition to launching a number of new and exciting play products, the display being mounted by Russell Leisure at this year’s IOG SALTEX open space management exhibition (Windsor, 2-4 September) will grab visitors’ attention for another major reason – the staging of a ‘mini Stonehenge’ display of stone circles will be an outstanding focal point at the show.

Featuring several pieces of specially carved Cornish glacial granite some being more than three metres high – similar material to that used in the ancient megalith in Wiltshire – the stones will be adapted towards natural play through intelligent landscaping and incorporating motion and carved designs within the pieces.

The innovative exhibit at IOG SALTEX is the brainchild of Dominic Ropner of Time Circles, a company that is partnering Russell Leisure to help expand the latter’s natural play portfolio.

According to Russell Leisure’s Alasdair Wellwood, the co-operation with Time Circles is “the perfect fit for a company with an ever-expanding range of natural play products that are landscape- and architecturally-friendly”.

He says: “Our IOG SALTEX display should prove an amazing attraction among the play exhibits – not only because of the mini Stonehenge and our other natural play products on show, but also because we are introducing the new and innovative Cosmo Rope range, new roundabouts and see-saws .”

These, he says, will complement the examples on show from the company’s existing range of playground equipment, ballcourts and skate ramps, for example, designed for children between three and 14 years.

“We’re convinced that our partnership agreement with Dominic Roper’s Time Circles gives us an unrivalled competitive edge in the natural play market, an area that is proving increasingly popular for us in a year which sees the Government’s £225 million Children’s Plan play investment programme underway.”

Time Circles’ natural play exhibits will also be available at IOG SALTEX’s Landscape Village – this year a much-expanded area dedicated to the needs of the landscaping professional and which will include home improvement and garden centre giant, B&Q, that will be showcasing its landscaping and ever-increasing trade offer.

• IOG SALTEX 2008 will be held on 2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.

ROYAL APPOINTMENT AFTER WINDSOR DEBUT AT IOG SALTEX

A Japanese knotweed infestation at Royal Mid-Surrey (RMS) Golf Club has been treated using a pioneering new stem injection system from Cheshire-based Japanese Knotweed Control after the two organisations met at last year’s IOG SALTEX exhibition at Windsor.

Set in Royal Parkland at Richmond-upon-Thames and adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, the golf course’s location meant that traditional chemical spraying of the knotweed was not an environmentally acceptable option.

Reviewing alternative treatment methods whilst attending the IOG SALTEX exhibition, golf club general manager, Marc Newey and course manager, Gavin Kinsella were impressed with Japanese Knotweed Control and in particular its new stem injection system.

The stem injection method enables localised treatment specific only to those weeds that need removing and has been used on two large problem areas on the RMS course. Knotweed was becoming increasingly prevalent on a car park area that borders the edge of the 18th fairway, as well as on proposed new teeing ground at the 9th.

A completely new environmental approach, the stem injection system works by delivering a measured dose of herbicide into the centre of the plant rather than just to the surface. This means it targets only the plants injected and there is no environmental risk of spray drift, run-off or contamination of watercourses and other sensitive vegetation.

Within a couple of weeks of meeting at the show, Japanese Knotweed Control had visited the golf course, surveyed the extent of the problem and made recommendations. A cost-effective solution with minimum disruption to the course and all risk factors taken into consideration was agreed before work began.

The golf club’s response was indicative of the enormous interest shown in the new stem injection system at IOG SALTEX. Japanese Knotweed Control’s stand attracted visitors from a large number of local authorities as well as groundsmen from some of the country’s leading public parks, stately homes and even a premiership football club, fully justifying the company’s debut attendance at the show.

“Given the huge scale of the event we were delighted with the number of visitors that said they’d specifically sought us out to discuss their Japanese knotweed problems,” said joint managing director, David Layland.

“Not only did we actually secure sales of the new stem injection system on the stand but we generated some excellent new business leads from organisations and groundsmen interested in us carrying out treatment programmes at affected sites.”

One of those, Royal Mid-Surrey’s Gavin Kinsella confirmed: “Japanese Knotweed Control offered a first class service, impressing us with the efficiency and accuracy of its stem injection system. We were able to see immediate results as the knotweed began to die back and the main benefit has been that no other vegetation or animal life on the course has been affected by the treatment.

“The team are professional, personable and highly knowledgeable about the treatment required. Following IOG SALTEX it was able to quickly and efficiently overcome a knotweed problem which, if left untreated, could have escalated into a major costly issue,” he said.

• IOG SALTEX 2008 will be held on 2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.

DIARY DATE

IOG SALTEX 2008

2-4 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berksshire.

IOG SALTEX is Europe’s only exhibition focusing on fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment.

Visit www.iogsaltex.co.uk for more details or call 020 7955 3987.

Makita's new easy-start chainsaws

Two new Makita high technology chainsaws are being launched to meet the demand from the rapid growth in ownership of chainsaws in the 30-45cc range.

The Makita DCS3501 and DCS4301 “Compact Class” saws feature easy starting, single switch choke, on/off safety control, ultra-low vibration rating and long service, easy maintenance reliability.

The new DCS3501 has a 34.7cc 2-stroke engine which develops 2.1hp and is available with either 35cm or 40cm bar.

The DCS4301 saw has a 42.4cc engine with 2.8hp and 35cm, 40cm or 45cm bar and .325” microlite chain.

“These brilliant new compact chainsaws are now available with all the advantages of the new design. They really are a major step forward on anything else on the market,” says Mark Earles, Makita’s OPE sales manager. “Our dealers are going to have a sales bonanza with these new machines. They are designed to deliver the top professional chainsaw features but at a price that the grown-up domestic user wants.

Holidays at Home

by Michael Smith (Veshengro), RFA

Seeing the impact the so-called “Credit Crunch” appears to be having on the finances on the individual, and not the individual alone, and also the rising costs of food and gasoline, it is my opinion that we shall, beginning with the year 2008, see the return to people taking their vacation more at home than at resorts or abroad.

Parks and Open Spaces will, I am sure, be more in use this summer, that is to say 2008, and if the money situation is anything to go by, also in years to come.

With the rising fuel costs and the increase of the general cost of living, from food to taxes, people are going to be turning the penny around a few times before they are going to spend it. Therefore, vacation at home may just be the result. Those that have a nice home and a nice garden I have never been able to understand as to why they would, not only spend the money, but the time and effort, to travel abroad for a for a few weeks holiday and then return more exhausted than when they left.

I remember before the times of the package holidays and the cheap flights to all over the world that people vacationed at home, in their own gardens, or those in the urban areas on their allotments, or went for a day or so to the seaside, and such. Others, especially the working classes that had the funds had a caravan by the seaside or some hitched up a caravan and went on holiday travelling about. Yet again others went on cycling tours with tent, including with their children. But even caravanning probably is out with the rise of fuel costs.

People who could not afford to go away or did not want to stayed, as said, at home in their own gardens, if they had such, or on their allotments, or went to the local parks and open spaces as much as possible.

Seeing the current economic climate, in the United Kingdom as much as in the United States and elsewhere, with the rising cost of living, of fuel, of food, of everything it would seem, it is more and more likely now that with the summer of 2008 we may just see a beginning of the “stay at home” holidays again.

Not a bad thing either, I am sure. Aside from saving money the local parks and open spaces will, once again, see a real resurgence of and in use and the powers that be might then be more reluctant to even think of getting rid off parks and open spaces. The other good thing of the “stay at home” vacations is the fact that such holidays put less of an impact on the environment (do take your litter home with you from your visit to the park and the woods please) in that there is less fuel used, and that aside from the money that is being saved. This saved money, or at least part of it, can then be spent in the local economy, at home.

Aside from the Parks and the Open Spaces in preparation for the “stay at home” vacations the garden centers and such stores will, I am sure, also find a lot of people visiting.

Allotments finally could find takers again as well. While in some parts of this country there is a waiting list for allotments in other parts, such as in some of the London Boroughs and other areas you cannot give a plot away. Entire allotment garden areas lie empty and overgrown. What a possibility for a real nice garden colony where to spend one's vacation close to home.

The Parks Departments and their staff will, in times like this if and when people will vacation at home, as just might happen this year, have their work cut out as, aside from the good people visiting parks in such instances, there are also always those that have to misbehave. On the other hand the simple pressure that an influx of a great number of people – more people that there have been for ages – puts onto the Parks and Park Staff will mean that, at times, litter may not be removed from areas as fast as people might like.

Again here the admonishment to all: Please, as far as possible, take your refuse home with you and do not leave it in the countryside or the park. If a litter bin is full do not put your bags of litter on top. It gets blown off, or taken off by wildlife, and scattered all over the area.

During the hot spells do not light or barbecues in parks, open spaces or woodlands. Aside from the fact that in most cases this is against the laws or bylaws it is also a fire hazard.

Leave wildlife alone and no, Bambi is not abandoned. His mother will be back soon. Do not touch him. If you do his mother may definitely abandon him and he will die.

Aside from this: enjoy your holiday in the parks and open spaces in our towns and our countryside, but please follow the Countrycode.

A “stay at home” holiday, with visits to the local parks and open spaces, as well as the local attractions – and there are more than you might think, regardless where you may live – is much more beneficial to you, and not just in respect to your pocketbook, as well as to Mother Nature (as long as you respect Her when you are out and about in the countryside during such a “stay at home” vacation.

Save money and reduce your environmental footprint (I refuse to call it carbon footprint or CO2 footprint) and have a relaxing time by having a “Holiday at Home”.

© M Smith (Veshengro), May 2008

Bikers leave trail of destruction in 'ancient' woodland

Motorcyclists and mountain bikers are destroying a prehistoric monument and environmentally sensitive sites in "ancient" woodland in Cornwall.

By Michael Smith (Veshengro), RFA

For the second year running, bikers have been wreaking havoc by riding their vehicles off-track in Kilminorth Woods, West Looe, which is designated as an Area of Great Landscape Value and a Local Nature Reserve.

Owned and managed by Caradon District Council, the 45ha site lies along the western bank of the West Looe River and is South East Cornwall’s largest primeval oak woods.

Until recently, Kilminorth Woods offered a largely undisturbed habitat for many different species of wildlife and plants. Last year mountain bikers, who are permitted to use the bridleway through the woods, began using the area for off-road biking, building several large ramps and causing substantial damage to ancient woodland’s fragile environment.

The district council removed the ramps, but the bikers are back in force this year. Trial bikers have also recently taken to using the woods – even though motorcycles are prohibited from the area – causing much more serious damage to the woods and creating a hazard for walkers.

Councillor Margaret Allen, Caradon’s local environment portfolio holder, said: “During the past year I’ve made many visits across Caradon to see our woodland sites, play parks and nature reserves, but my recent trip to Kilminorth Woods was the saddest.

“The bikers have built substantial wood and earth ramps, gouging trenches in the floor of the woods for their construction and churning up the earth where they ride their bikes off-track.

"They are destroying the lichens, mosses and ferns for which the woods are known and disturbing the habitat of small creatures such as voles, insects and nesting birds. Deer and badgers are also being affected, and one bike track passes close to an established badger sett.

“Worse still, the bikers have deliberately dug out sections of the Giant’s Hedge to form tracks. There can be no excuse for wantonly destroying an ancient monument, and it is clear from the scale of the destruction that we are talking about the actions of adults rather than children.

Councillor Allen continued: “Kilminorth Woods is designated as a Local Nature Reserve, and Caradon has an obligation to protect it. We have no objection to bicycles on the formal pathways, but off-track mountain and trial biking is not appropriate in an environmentally sensitive area.

“The vast majority of visitors to Kilminorth Woods use the footpaths in a safe and sensible way, but sadly a few thoughtless trial and mountain bikers are causing serious problems by their illegal and inappropriate use of the woods.
"The near accidents, verbal abuse of other users of the woods and damage to the area is wholly unacceptable.

"Ancient woodland like Kilminorth is the United Kingdom’s version of the rainforest. A mere 2 per cent is left, and it is still disappearing”, said Councillor Allen further.

Unfortunately, Councillor Allen does not know, in the latter instance, what he is talking about, much like so many local councillors. She does remind one of some of the so-called environmental advisers to the local councils here that have about as much knowledge of the environment, namely none or very little.

I very much, as a professional forester, amongst others, would like to dispute the notion of ancient forest/woodland in the UK to mean one never touched by hand of man. 99.9% of all woodlands and forests in this country have, at one time or the other, been worked and managed by man. The often quoted ancient woodlands in some places of the West Country are in fact ancient coppice woodlands which, if they are not going to be worked pronto will fall apart and will become history.

Spouting off the contents of material they have read, but all too often not properly digested and especially understood, and more often than not from dubious sources, does not help the cause one little bit.

I do, however, agree that motorbikes have no place in such woodlands – or any other woodlands – for that matter as those that ride mountain bike of the push bike variety should do so with consideration and if they do not they should be brought to book and fined severely – period.

Like the law give the right of seizure of an illegally used motorbike, that is to say that the relevant authorities can take the bike and have it crushed, the same might be a good idea for the mountain biker variety too when they are used in a manner as outlined here. It is my belief that many riders would thing more than twice doing the described if they'd knew that the authorities could seize their bike, which often have cost them thousands of British Pounds, and gave then destroyed or – and this would be much better – sold off to others.

© M Smith (Veshengro), May 2008

Climate Change is going to adversely affect European Biodiversity

by Michael Smith (Veshengro), RFA

Climate Change and the loss of Biodiversity are the most pressing environmental problems and challenges of the twenty first century. Biodiversity and forestry will be tremendously affected by this.

In order to develop the necessary adaption strategies integrated and appropriate research is required that covers a broad spectrum of themes. We must not, under any circumstances, underestimate the possible effects of climate change on the environment and on biodiversity, especially, as said, in our woods and forests and the impact that this will have on our continued use of forest products.

The concept of the protection and retention of the biodiversity includes, aside from the mere protection of the environment and biodiversity, also the commercial use of our woodlands and forests. Therefore research into climate change and biodiversity has to be seen and understood an interdisciplinary task which also must include the socio-economic aspects and the questions as to our moral concepts and ideas.

According to calculations and prognoses based on computer modelling not only would by a warming of the climate the potentially suitable ranges for tree species like beech and pine change considerably, but this would also be the case for the rarer species and those endangered ones on the red lists. The “red list species”, according to those calculations, would be extremely hard hit due to loss of suitable areas where they can grow and thrive.

We must find ways and means to react to such a threat so as to preserve the species but also to be able to continue to commercially use timber and other products from our woods and forests even during this probable climate change.

© M Smith (Veshengro), Tatchipen Media & EcoFor, April 2008

Hultafors Group acquires Fisco Tools

Gothenburg April 2, 2008 - Hultafors Group has acquired all shares in the leading British measuring tape manufacturer Fisco Tools Ltd. The acquisition is a natural stage in the growth strategy of the Hultafors Group whose operations aim at servicing the professional requirements of European craftsmen.

Hultafors and Fisco Tools have for many years now undertaken strategic cooperation covering the production and sale of measuring tools. With this acquisition, Hultafors will be able to broaden its product portfolio and strengthen its presence on the European market.

"Hultafors has high growth targets and, with the acquisition of Fisco Tools, we will increase our turnover by over 70 million SEK annually," says Bo Jägnefält, CEO of Hultafors. "Tape measures are today one of the world's most frequently used hand tools and we see considerable growth potential in virtually all markets."

In 2007, the annual turnover of the Hultafors Group was 1.1 billion SEK. The group currently consists of three brands and represents the hand tools business area within Investment AB Latour which is listed on the Stockholm stock exchange.

The current brands in the Hultafors Group are:

· Hultafors Tools which is the Nordic market leader in hand tools in both the measuring & marking and the chopping & striking sectors.

· Wibe Ladders which was acquired in 2005 and which is the market leader in the Nordic region for ladders and scaffolds.

· Snickers Workwear which was acquired in December 2006 and is one of Europe's leading brands for workwear for craftsmen. Snickers has distribution in 20 countries.

Founded in 1939, Fisco Tools Ltd has been a manufacturer of tape measures since the 1940s and has taken a leading position in the development of state-of -the art products.. The company's operation and production are based in Rayleigh, Essex in England. www.fisco.co.uk

Hultafors Group currently consists of the Snickers Workwear, Wibe Ladders and Hultafors Tools brands. Together they form a unique product family for professional craftsmen who want products on which they can rely. Hultafors Group has 650 employees and has sales operations on more than 40 markets the world over. www.hultaforsgroup.com

Bulldog Bypass Pruning Shears BD3152 – Product Review

Rollins Bulldog have been making quality tools for gardening and agriculture for well over 200 years by now and most of those tools are still forged at Bulldog's Clarington Forge in Wigan.

The pair of bypass pruning shears, that I have the pleasure in reviewing here, are from the Premier Range, and came to me via a press pack from the 2008 Garden Press Event that was held at the Royal Horticultural Halls in Westminster at the end of January 2008, are no exception here. They are a quality tool at a very reasonable price. At around GBP 13 these quality pruners certainly are not expensive.

The blades are forget from high carbon SK-5 Japaneses steel and the handles are sold aluminium into which the blades are securely bolted. The handles have green “elastomer” grips, preventing the tool slipping out of your hands.

Locking together of the handles is achieved by an old method though with modern materials, that is to say that an ABS plastic hook acts as the lock at the bottom of the handles, locking the pruners safely and secure.

The spring is of the common “caterpillar” kind which is, unfortunately, often prone to jumping out and getting lost. This problem is overcome, as it would appear, on the BD3152 pruners in that the ends of the spring has been recessed rather deep into the handles and I should think that it is nigh on impossible for the spring to jump out on its own without help.

The BD3152 pruners appear very well made and well thought out, as are all Bulldog tools, and should give years of faithful service at a great value price. The length of service obviously depends greatly on how they are used or abused and treated or mistreated during and especially also after work. This often makes or breaks a tool.

Pros:
High carbon steel blades, forged
Bladed bolted into handles
Solid aluminium handles with rubberized grips
Safe and secure locking mechanism
Value for money price

Cons:
Still trying to find any.

The BD3152 Bypass Pruning Shears from Bulldog are equally well suited, in my opinion, for the professional gardener as well as the allotment gardener or the amateur at home.

© Michael Smith (Veshengro), March 2008

The Storm Kettle – Product Review

Originally, the Storm Kettle was handmade in Ireland - often by travellers who produced them in copper - for fishermen, itinerant workers and tourists. John Grindlay, who with his wife owns and runs the Eydon Kettle Company, modified the design and implemented modern manufacturing techniques in the early 1960’s.

John Grindlay borrowed an original copper kettle and took it to England during the winter. Tooling was manufactured and the first 10 kettles eventually produced. These were very quickly sold for £10 each in 1979, the assembly work being carried out by Mr Grindlay’s children who were then 8 years and 10 years old. Popular demand meant that production had to increase. Since 1979 the numbers sold have substantially increased each year.

Mainly these Kettles, whether sold in the UK, Germany, or elsewhere, are used by sportsmen, holiday makers, expedition organisers and outdoor enthusiasts. They have even accompanied the explorer John Blashford-Snell, while he was searching for signs of early civilisations on a trip to Central America.

Nowadays they can be found in the Solomon Isles helping remote islanders boil water to purify it, in remote parts of Southern Africa, where dried cattle dung is used by the Zulus as fuel, or in the Sahara Desert on expeditions.

I am always amazed though that they never seem to have found a take up by the still travelling Romani in the UK and elsewhere. The Storm Kettle does away with the need for a fire for just the purpose of brewing a cup of tea or coffee or even for the making of some other hot beverage.

Using a Storm Kettle means you can boil water easily, in the wettest and windiest of weather, both rapidly and safely. They are also environmentally friendly as you only need a sheet of newspaper and a handful of twigs as fuel. So the simplicity of the Kettle ensures that boiling water is always available, without the need to use gas, petrol or any other artificial fuel.

Storm Kettles come in two sizes, the Original and the Popular. The Original will boil up to 2.5 pints (approx. 1.5 litres) the Popular up to 2 pints (approx. one litre) – that should ensure more than enough hot water is available for you within minutes - at any time.

The water boils rather quickly and can be kept going by just adding further small sticks into the fire that is going in the burner beneath the kettle via the “chimney”.

One word of warning even though it is mentioned more than once in the literature and also on a sticker on the kettle itself: NEVER EVER use it with the cork in place. While the cork is very handy for carrying the kettle with water in it when heating the water the cork must be taken out of the spout.

The Storm Kettle & the cook set that nowadays is available for it is the ideal kit for forestry workers, countryside conservators, and other such like, such as Parks & Countryside Ranger, especially those working on maintenance tasks away from the main base.

While the Storm Kettle and accessories do not come cheap I can but recommend them.

The Prices for the kettles are: £43.00 for the Popular and £44.50 for the Original. Prices include V.A.T. and carriage.

Reviewed by Michael Smith (Veshengro), February 2008

New standards to rubber stamp tyre recycling

With more than 100,000 used tyres removed from UK vehicles daily, a new initiative launched by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme) and the Environment Agency will help businesses come to grips with the value of used tyres.

The Quality Protocol for the production and use of tyrederived rubber materials, which was launched to consultation could make it easier and cheaper for industry to reprocess used tyres into valuable products like flooring, road surfacing, and aggregates.

Martin Brocklehurst, Head of External Waste Programmes at the Environment Agency, said: “Placed end to end, the annual tyre waste of England and Wales would stretch from London to Cardiff more than 100 times. With so many cars, vans and trucks discarding tyres, we have potential to access more than 40,000 tonnes of recycled rubber.

“A Quality Protocol could save businesses the time and costs associated with meeting waste regulations, by clearly defining the standards required to collect, transport, store, recycle and reuse rubber tyres, without harming human health and the environment.”

Under the Quality Protocol processed used tyres would no longer be classified as waste, making the recycled rubber more marketable and guaranteeing to customers that the material they buy will meet agreed quality standards.

Recycled rubber from used tyres can be used for Landscaping, bridleways, footpaths, paving & porous piping, sports and recreational: artificial sports tracks and surfaces, sports barriers, golf and bowling greens etc.

Wrap

Play is for everyone - even those of an advanced age

David Yearley, Head of Play Safety for RoSPA, is proud of the fact that RoSPA has been, for a long time now, at the forefront of the campaign against the “dumbing down” of play opportunities for children. Indeed the slogan originally used by RoSPA Playsafety “as safe as necessary, not as safe as possible” is now the official line for the whole of the RoSPA organisation.

The ideas of what is safe and acceptable have changed considerably through the ages. RoSPA’s extensive library has an American book from 1905 (thought to be the oldest book specifically on the subject) which shows “good design” that by today’s standards would be considered totally unacceptable. Play has tended to come from a very high risk basis through to an attempt to have virtually no risk, to what we are beginning to see now and what we hope will become the standard – a level of risk which allows minor accidents to happen but aims to prevent serious injury. Children learn the ability to assess risk through their play and therefore it is essential that they are exposed to a controlled level of risk. The gathering of statistics has helped towards improving play safety. How many of us remember the old “Witches Hat” play item. It was great fun but it was only when accident statistics begun to be collated that it was realised that it was also a killer and that children were dying using it.

Recent research has indicated the high value of play to older people and it is good to see that the first play area specifically designed for being played on by adults in the UK, has just opened in Blackley, Manchester. Congratulations to all at the Dam Head Residents' Association, Northwoods Housing Association, and to also Manchester City Council Leisure Services for their support. RoSPA hopes to see many similar play areas in the future. Is it expensive? Well this site of six items cost only £15,000.

RoSPA believes in inclusion in play. This means opportunities for ALL, regardless of ability OR age. Why cannot grandparents play on a play area with their grandchildren? It both improves bonding between them as well as giving exercise to both and helping to keep the elderly active and healthy. The Manchester site is a good example of what can be achieved. Locals report that the most interesting part is the giggling and laughter of the pensioners.

Unfortunately one of the areas of play opportunity which tended to disappear from use is water play. Water plays an essential part in everyone’s life (indeed we cannot live without it) and it can, if properly managed, provide very high play value for children. Children have always had a fascination with water and the older ones among us will remember paddling in local streams or playing on river banks. It is good to see the re-emergence of water as a play medium. Perhaps global warming will increase the desire for water play.

Many manufacturers are beginning to produce items that involve water. No great depth is necessary to provide the stimulation and excitement that water can give. For instance running water 2-3mm deep down a gentle incline enables a child to splash to their heart’s content without any risk (provided of course that reasonable controls are in place as to water cleanliness). Interactive water jets coming from the ground, or above, are particularly popular in the summer.

Rospa

All work and no play

Physical Play is a very important and vital part of a child’s development, it enables them to experience a broad range of physical and emotional skills that they will encounter in later life and will promote self-awareness, boost their self-esteem and encourages social interaction with peer approval.

There is risk in everything we do from rock climbing to crossing the street and our children have to be able to access this risk and to know that in real life there is no restart and that all their actions have consequences for themselves and others around them, promoting problem solving in a real environment. All play equipment must also have an element of risk because without it, there is no excitement or sense of achievement but this risk must be managed.

A well-designed play area should provide all these elements for an exciting and rewarding experience or all who use it and still leaving them wanting to return time after time.

Playquest

Makita power for Age Concern ‘Jungle Patrol’

Makita has been selected by Age Concern, to equip a new household garden maintenance service. Launched recently by the Barking & Dagenham Age Concern centre, this property renovation and maintenance service is planned to become a national provision in years to come.

“We started the service three months ago” said Maralyn Gay, Project leader from Age Concern, “but the tools we had proved unsuitable. Advised by local distributor LB Plant of Thurrock we are now equipped with a full range of Makita professional grounds maintenance tools, brushcutters, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, mowers and shredders.

Makita

Bahco PX & PXR ergonomic pruners – Product Review

The ergonomic pruner improves your
Comfort
Safety
Health
Efficiency

All pruning professionals are at risk of developing aches and pains through repeating the same motion thousands of times a day during the whole pruning season. Those pains, commonly called Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD), account for a large part of work related illnesses in the horticultural industry.

The design of the ergonomic pruners results from five years of scientific research and user testing all over the world.

The benefits of this new design can be felt in two major advantages: less fatigue at the end of the day and a less painful, longer and more productive working life.

The main features of the ergonomic pruners are:

Vertical and lateral inclinations that help the user to keep arm and hand straight in line. Those angles then avoid pains on tendons and nerves while cutting thus reducing tennis elbow type pain – Epicondilytis – and wrist pains – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

The flowing shape of the handles has emerged from serious study of how pruners are used. They spread the load more evenly and concentrate pressure points away from sensitive zones and nerve centers.

The elastomer coating on the upper handle gives a better grip and spreads the pressure over a larger surface. The user also requires less effort to hold the tool all day long.

Different sizes and types of cutting heads are available as are different strengths of springs. In addition to this a hand measuring system and different size handles allow for a nigh on made-to-measure pair of pruners.

At the recent Garden Press Event 2008 at the RHS Halls in Westminster on January 29, I was given a sample of the Bahco PX-M2 version of those ergonomic pruners by Richard Hayter, the representative on the Bahco stand.

I have tried so-called ergonomic pruners before from different makers but found most of them not very good and even more difficult and tiresome to use then the straight-forward versions so I probably was a little apprehensive at first with this one, and must have appeared somewhat like that to Richard Hayter as well, but...

Well, this is one of the best pairs of pruners that I have handled in years, and I do mean THE BEST, and as a professional I tend to handle quite a variety of different makes.

For the test I have used the pruners for a number of days and must say that I cut branches well above the cutting limit, e.g. green Elm of around on inch in diameter (25mm plus) and it cut that without much of an effort in strength applied and half an inch or below, around the 10mm mark, one does not even notice that one is doing it. I must remember to keep my little finger well clear of the blades here.

The handles fit so well that the pruners become an extension of the user's hand and the work is done rather effortless. That is, however, not surprising seeing that one is measured to the pruners. Cutting is, as said, absolutely effortless and one hardly notices that one is doing it.

This is the first pair of bypass pruners, methinks, which would make pruning roses, shrubs, trees or vines fun rather than a chore.

A definite recommend I can but put to this tool. A definite must for the professional gardener, forester and vintner.

The retail price is not low, that is for sure, with nigh on the, so I understand, 50 GBP mark, but then one gets a tools that is well designed and makes life and work easier and with a lifetime warranty one gets quality too.

Reviewed by Michael Smith (Veshengro), February 2008