Working with Willow

HMorton

Looking for someone that works with willow, making hurdles or fences for use against a river bank.
Seems to be lots in England, but can't find anyone in Northern Ireland.

Thanks

thriftyminx13

What are you planning to do exactly? And what is your goal? Bank stabilisation?......

ballyblack

There is a chap called Clive near Portaferry who works with Willow,
He is a 'countryside skills practitioner'

From their website; "When available we supply willow for basketry and living willow for DIY garden projects, tunnels, arbours, fedges, domes, tipis etc."


might be able to help? or maybe point you in the right direction?

http://www.4ni.co.uk/99162x319x3_welig-crafts-portaferry.htm


.l

HMorton

Hi,

Thanks for the info, I'm trying to achieve bank stabilisation and stop further erosion. Part of the bank has already dropped, I'm getting this repaired but want to stop it drifting again. I did consider the builder's approach, but have been advised by a Geo Engineer that the fault is on the river bed and adding any weight to the bank would make the problem worse. His advice was to plant willows at the river bank which I intend to do, but I would like to put a willow hedge along the bank itself to try and help further.

Thanks
H

thriftyminx13

Yep no the willow approach is best probably with a few trees behind it. I'm not sure of specific companies but Rivers Agency have started doing this along some rivers including the lower bann using geotextile matting and willow i think. Best advise is to contact rivers agency and ask them what companies they use or supply or if they are best advised to help with the plans.

Also have you considered planting trees etc along the banks. some species including alders etc are known for their stabilising influence. A lot of people get rid of plants and trees beside rivers thinking they are too blame.

The Geo engineer is also right in that if you completely put concrete slabs along the bank then it doesn't get rid of the problem. usually what happens is that the river bank either collapses above or below where you have put the slabs. It usually results in even more land loss.

Sorry I can't give specific companies but I hope that helps.

HMorton

Hi,

Thanks for all the help and advice, have contacted the guy ballyblack suggested and he's coming out to check what he can do, but seems confident that we can work something out.

Again thanks for all the help and suggestions, much appreciated.

Heather