Following on from our December Scything Demo, this will be our first scythe of spring. Scything expert Jim McVittie will join us to help learners and more experienced scythers to sharpen and peen their blades then test them on the early spring grass. Open to experienced scythers, first timers, and observers. Note that scythes are sharp - please keep dogs under control while we are scything and scythe at your own risk.

Scything is great exercise, zero carbon, and experienced scythers can get a beautiful, nature-friendly lawn finish. More info on scything here: https://wildscythe.co.uk/scything/

Below is the rough schedule for the day.

10:30 to 12:30 - Anyone who has their own scythe can bring it along and receive guidance on cleaning the blade, peening the edge and honing ready for use.

12:30 to 13:30 - Lunch. Tea provided but bring your own food.

13:30 to 15:00 - Scything and raking of the meadow

Bring your own scythes and rakes if you have them, but if not, there will be scythes available to practice on, as well as peening equipment.

Free, but donations to Eco Group are always welcome on the day or via our online donation portal. If you are an experienced scyther joining us to work, no donation required!!
Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Location: The entrance to the meadow is on a part of Broad Lane in Haslingfield which is pedestrian access only. Parking is available on Broad Lane or the High St.

what3words position for the meadow gate is ///cosmic.extremely.hunter

New Scything Working Party Group

The plan is for these sessions to be the start of a regular scything group which can travel around helping manage meadows throughout the region in spring and summer. This will be organised through a google group which you can join by emailing hnheco@gmail.com. This group will be co-ordinated by Jim with assistance from Michelle. You don’t have to be a scyther - rakers also needed!

Through this group you can request scything help for your area and keep abreast of the scything opportunities and where the group will be scything next.

If you are wanting to make a commitment to learning to scythe, Norfolk based Wild Scythe offers demonstrations, all day workshops, and also sells scythes and sharpening equipment. Visit Home - Wild Scythe for more information.

Questions? Write to Michelle at hnheco@gmail.com. Include your phone number if you’d like to be added to our Eco Group WhatsApp (not the same as the Google Group!)