Counting the costs of Storm Darragh in Eryri (Snowdonia)
Eryri (Snowdonia) was badly impacted by Storm Darragh in December 2024, affecting the landscapes and the places we care for.
While it's challenging to determine the exact number of lost or damaged trees on National Trust land in the area, estimates suggest that it could be around a thousand. Neighbouring woodlands have also suffered extensive damage, affecting the health and connectivity of our woods within the broader landscape.
Simon Rogers, Countryside Manager for National Trust Cymru - Eryri and Orme, said:
"The extent of the damage is heartbreaking, especially in the Beddgelert area, and shows how increasingly severe and frequent storms like Darragh can impact the landscapes and the places we look after.
“Some of the worst tree damage occurred in areas already affected by Phytophthora and Ash Dieback, which illustrates how multiple factors can combine to threaten our woodlands.”
Rangers worked tirelessly in the week after the storm to make most of our land safe – although two footpaths did have to remain closed over Christmas for public safety.
As well as the environmental impact, there is a financial one as well for us as a charity. For example, 10 rangers working over a period of 7 days to deal with the storm damage was an initial cost of £14,000.
Of course, the ongoing financial impact will be much greater, with significant damage to walls, fences, footpaths and bridges also.
Simon added:
“We anticipate further damage this winter, as many trees still standing have been structurally weakened by Storm Darragh, and new gaps in woodlands will increase their exposure to future storms.”
Please consider 'adopting a plot' in Eryri (Snowdonia). Adopt a Plot is a small way you can take a big step towards restoring nature. Towards regenerating the natural landscape we all treasure.
Click on the link for more information: Adopt a Plot | Nature restoration | National Trust