Forest Enterprise Scotland is urging members of the public to be aware of forest operations when visiting Mabie Forest, south of Dumfries.
Access to certain areas of the forest will be restricted throughout December, January and February while felling operations are carried out to remove larch trees vulnerable to Phytophthora ramorum.
The main access to Mabie Forest from the A710 will also be closed for essential maintenance works from 9am – 4pm, Monday to Friday. Work will be finished for Christmas but in the meantime visitors are urged to follow the diversion signage to alternative access off The Moss Road, alongside Mabie Farm Park
Public information notices, details of works and trail closures will also be regularly updated and posted on site and online.
Sallie Bailey, District Manager in Dumfries and Borders Forest District, said;
“Mabie is one of our most popular recreation sites in the region – with 7stanes mountain bike trails as well as walking trails –
“Regrettably, felling is unavoidable because it is one of the crucial steps we can take to try and minimise the progress of this disease, which has badly affected larch, particularly in parts of south-west Scotland.
“These works will change the look of the forest for a short time, but also present opportunities for future replanting.
“Another crucial step that everyone can take is to follow biosecurity practice. It sounds quite involved but is really very simple.
“Our ‘Keep it Clean’ campaign asks that before arriving visitors clean their boots, any kit they’re bringing, bike tyres if they’re cycling and even pets paws if you walk dogs.
“Pests and diseases can travel from one forest to another in mud and forest debris so taking a few minutes to clean it off can make a big difference to the health of our forests.”
The felling is being carried out in a bid to prevent the disease from spreading further.
Alternative forest destinations include The Hills, Dalbeattie and Ae, all of which are unaffected by the works.
Similar operations planned for Heathhall Forest are likely to begin in the New Year and be completed by the beginning of March.
The attached image is illustrative only.
