Across the country, local climbers are becoming proactive and getting their favourite crags back into prime condition. Before you start, here are some useful guidelines for crag cleaning operations.

"It came off in me hand, officer."
There can be a fine line between cleaning a route, and environmental vandalism. There are cases where a climber innocently removing a "weed" from a cliff has been shocked to discover they've destroyed a rare plant and are facing a hefty fine. Not everyone views vegetation on a rock face as a nuisance (even if they climb in Lancashire!)

The most successful way to get things moving is to get in touch with your friendly local Area Meeting. They have a fine track record in getting things done, and have the experience and wherewithall to help you get your pet project off the ground.

What, Where, When, Who, How?
If you want to speed the process up, you should find out answers to the following questions prior to talking to the Area Meeting:

1. Who owns the land your crag is on?
2. Are there any conservation issues e.g. is the crag in a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)?
3. What will be needed to accomplish the task?

It's also a good idea to take some pics to show people what you're all fired up about.

Successful clean ups from 2006 onwards have taken place in North Wales, Lancashire, Merseyside, South Wales, The Peak District and Leicestershire.

Read more about crag clean-ups in the BMC Crag and Habitat Management Guide

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