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Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Yahoo
Pit bull-type dogs attack prominent SC prosecutor out for a jog at Harbison Forest
A prominent Columbia federal prosecutor out for a jog in Harbison State Forest found himself fighting for his life when he was attacked by two large unchained pit bull-type dogs over the weekend. But Winston Holliday, who has helped put some of South Carolina's most notorious criminals behind bars, was saved when an off-duty police officer happened upon what could have been a fatal mauling Saturday morning. The dogs were either pit bulls or pit bull mixes, Holliday said. Holliday, 57, an avid jogger and runner, suffered wounds to his arms and legs, the most serious being to his right forearm. The gash from dog bites required five stitches. A photo Holliday posted on Facebook shows his arm stitched up and spattered with blood. One of his hands won't close because it is so swollen from punching the dogs in self defense. All told, he received 17 stitches on his arms and legs as a result of the attack. Meanwhile, the state Forestry Commission said Monday afternoon that it is closing Harbison State Forest until at least Thursday while it tries to locate the dogs. The commission's notice was posted on FaceBook. The commission said that it had become aware of other incidents in and around the state forest near Broad River Road. Two large aggressive dogs cornered a teenager Friday, but the youth managed to escape without injury, the commission said in its Facebook post. Holliday's attack is being investigated by the Columbia police department, whose jurisdiction includes Harbison forest. Dog traps have been set in an effort to capture the animals, which the Forestry Commission said had not been seen since Saturday. A Forestry Commission spokesperson did not return calls by The State seeking more information, but its Facebook post said a similar dog sighting had been reported July 9. 'Nobody knows who the dogs belong to,' said Columbia police Chief Skip Holbrook. 'Animal control has put some traps out to try to trap them. We have notified the park law enforcement to be aware and be on the lookout also.' Holbrook said it is also possible that the dogs may be running wild. Determining their ownership, or lack thereof, is one of the objects of the police investigation. In an interview with The State, Holliday said he may not have survived the attack if the other man had not happened upon the brutal event. The dogs stopped attacking and ran away when the man, Marc Miramontes, an off-duty police officer with the Lexington police department, showed up, said Holliday, who worked with Miramontes in law enforcement years ago and sometimes sees him while on runs at Harbison State Forest. 'I remember thinking 'I'm flagging, I'm getting tired and they are not losing any''' energy, Holliday said. 'They were getting more aggressive. I think they sensed that I was getting tired. If Marc hadn't been there, I don't know what would have happened.'' Because of the attack, Holliday said he is on antibiotics and will have to undergo a series of rabies shots during the next two weeks. Holliday said the state Forestry Commission, which oversees Harbison forest, is investigating the incident, along with local law enforcement. Holliday spoke with an animal control officer Monday morning. At least one person has indicated he could identify the dogs. Holliday said he hopes they are caught because the animals could hurt other people. They have been reported to have attacked several people's pets in neighborhoods near Harbison State Forest, Holliday said. State foresters told him there had been other reports of the dogs being spotted near the nature preserve, Holliday said. The federal prosecutor said he suspects the dogs were not strays but were owned by someone because they appeared well-fed. They could have been trained as hunting dogs, based on how they worked together during the attack, he said. 'They're strong dogs; they're not being fed on frogs and crickets,'' he said. Harbison State Forest, just nine miles from Columbia's downtown, attracts numerous visitors and nature lovers. A 2,137-acre greenspace, with more than 18 miles of trails, it is a mecca for families, group daytime excursions and outdoor enthusiasts of all types, from joggers to mountain bikers to canoeists. Holliday, an assistant U.S. Attorney in Columbia since 2003, has been on prosecution teams that have sent some of South Carolina's most prominent criminals to prison, including fraudster and convicted killer Alex Murdaugh. Although state prosecutors persuaded a jury to convict Murdaugh of the double murders of his wife and son, Holliday and two other federal prosecutors secured Murdaugh's guilty plea for numerous cases of fraud. Holliday also prosecuted top SCANA and Westinghouse Electric officials for criminal charges related to the failure of the effort to build two new nuclear reactors at the V.C. Summer plant in Fairfield County. Additionally, he and his colleagues have focused on wildlife crimes, as well as on illicit dog fighting rings. Details of the attack Saturday are chilling. A distance runner for 40 years who regularly jogs the trails at Harbison State Forest near his home, Holliday said he was more than a quarter mile into a run through the forest about 7:30 a.m. Saturday when he heard two dogs barking to his left, 15 feet away. As he looked over, he saw the pit-bull-like dogs advancing and beginning to circle him, as if they were a team preparing for an attack. Pit bulls are often considered unpredictable and are responsible for many attacks on people across the country. Typically, dogs that bark at joggers will run away or calm down when the jogger makes noise and yells at them, said Holliday, who has run in distance races across the world, including in Africa and Jamaica, and who is a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger School. But the Harbison dogs were different. They came after him as he tried to scare them off, he said. While one animal would bark, the other would lunge at him, Holliday said. The dogs inflicted wounds by biting, then tearing at his flesh, he said. 'Once they were circling, one of them was always trying to be in front of me, while the other one got behind me,'' he said. 'In whichever way I was looking, the other dog would launch. I was kind of spinning.'' He tried to fight the dogs off with a stick and with punches, but they kept coming . The animals weighed anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds, he said. Hitting them was like 'hitting a concrete block,'' he said. Holliday, who weighs a lean 185 pounds, said he doubts someone smaller could have held the dogs off. He estimates the attack occurred for about five minutes. Holliday, who is married and the father of three grown children, said it will be hard to forget what happened over the weekend on what he expected was little more than a routine jog. 'As bad as the physical injuries are, in a couple of weeks, that's going to be fine,'' he said. 'But mentally, trying to get back to the point where you feel comfortable running by yourself, I don't know. The sense of helplessness is not something I ever want to experience again.'' This story has been updated with comments from Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook and information from the S.C. Forestry Commission.
The Herald Scotland
27-06-2025
- General
- The Herald Scotland
75 years of public forestry conservation work in Glen Affric
Regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, it contains one of the best (and third largest) examples of the Caledonian Forest that once covered much of Scotland. FLS North Region Manager, Alex Macleod, said: 'Glen Affric is a special and spectacular place. We have been working here for a long time, working with other landowners, and community and volunteer groups, on the long and slow process of restoring the Caledonian forest in this iconic Glen. 'In all that time, we estimate that we've protected and restored hundreds of hectares of Caledonian Pinewood through planting and allowing natural regeneration of Scots Pine and native broadleaves. READ MORE: 'That Affric looks as it now does belies the fact that this most natural looking of destinations is under constant management. But it is a fitting testament to the success of decades of effort that has included planting and forest management, as well as fencing and – crucially – deer management to protect the young trees. 'Where possible we are using natural processes to protect and restore the rare habitats and species in the area but it's unlikely that Glen Affric will ever be wholly free of management but we can thank those mid-20th century foresters for having the long-term vision that has helped us create what is there today.' Amongst its many designations, it is a Caledonian Forest Reserve, a site of special scientific interest, a national scenic area and a national nature reserve, as well as holding several other European conservation designations. Deer management has been pivotal to success. When the Forestry Commission acquired Glen Affric (1948) years of unchecked deer browsing meant that there were very few Scots pine trees under 100 years of age. Some of those trees had to be felled to make space for the millions of young trees (grown from local Scots pine seed) planted by the Forestry Commission in fenced pinewood reserves at the start of the forest regeneration process. In the 1950s the Commission was still fulfilling its post-war remit to increase tree cover, so also planted species like lodgepole pine and Sitka spruce. However, within 20 years, the evolution of forestry knowledge and thinking saw a reversal of this policy and the reduction of non-native species from key areas. The core pinewood is anticipated to be free of non-native species within the next decade but productive forestry will continue to have a presence in the Glen both to allow ongoing restructuring of forests and provide local economic benefit. Mr Macleod added: 'The 75 years of work has seen a significant protection and expansion of the Caledonian woodland, major improvements in the structure of woodlands and the reach of montane woodland, as well as the restoration of wetlands, peatland and other open land habitats. This has been a real boost for biodiversity with a wide range of animal, bird and insect species – from dragonflies to red deer, and mountain hares to golden eagles. 'It has also been a real boost for visitor numbers, with the Glen renowned as a high value, high quality recreation area and visitor destination. 'High visitor numbers– and the potential impact that this could have – climate change and wildlife management are going to be the main challenges that we will continue to address as we move towards us reaching our centenary in Glen Affric. 'We remain fully committed to the sensitive stewardship of Glen Affric on behalf of the nation and to our continued partnership working with our neighbours, the local communities and stakeholders, such as Trees for Life, Affric Highlands and the Deer Management Group, to ensure that Glen Affric is cared for future generations to experience and enjoy.' A good deal of experience has been built up about the practical application of interventions over 75 years of work but there is still scope for more science and research to be done to better understand both how these interventions affect the less visible species and functions, and what natural processes are doing in Glen Affric.
Daily Mirror
13-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Waterfalls, wildlife and cafe in little-known UK forest trail that locals love
Hafren Forest is a haven of peace and beauty, with its cascading waterfalls, wildlife, and trails that take you through ancient woodland and to the source of the River Severn Stepping onto the woodland trail, you'll immediately be struck by the crisp air, tinged with the earthy aroma of damp pine and moss - a sensory reminder that this is nature in its rawest form. This is the lesser-known Hafren Forest in Mid Wales, home to cascading waters, trails and a quaint café just a short drive away. Hafren is a meticulously managed woodland with an intriguing history and an abundance of trails to discover. Originally planted by the Forestry Commission in the 1930s for timber production, it now offers much more than just rows of trees. READ MORE: Shoppers say 'beautiful' statement jewellery is a 'compliment getter' Now under the stewardship of Natural Resources Wales, the forest strikes a balance between commercial forestry, conservation, and public enjoyment, making it a crucial habitat for wildlife and a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. The name 'Hafren' derives from the Welsh term for the River Severn (Afon Hafren), which embarks on its impressive journey to the sea right here. Over the years, Hafren Forest has transformed into a popular and accessible walking destination, with its blend of natural beauty, heritage features and well-maintained trails drawing visitors all year round The trails here are clearly marked and welcoming, meandering through groves of pines and firs. Their natural symmetry forms archways overhead, framing the path ahead. When sunlight pierces the clouded sky, it floods in golden beams, lighting up leaves and bark, reports Wales Online. The River Severn, or Afon Hafren as it's locally known, takes the spotlight here. It originates from the slopes of Pumlumon, with its concealed source nestled just beyond the forest. Initially, it's merely a tranquil stream meandering through the trees with quiet resolve. However, it soon gains momentum, cascading over rocky ledges and morphing into thunderous waterfalls that carve their way through the landscape with unyielding vigour. Forest trails There's an abundance of trails to explore here, all clearly marked from beginning to end. Starting at the Rhyd-y-benwch car park, the paths guide you through towering trees, alongside rushing waterfalls, and even to the hidden source of the River Severn. The Cascades Walk is a gentle amble suitable for all visitors. It commences with a sloping path from the car park and leads to a scenic boardwalk that skirts the riverbank. Along the route, water cascades over rocks, providing a calming backdrop to your woodland walk. At the boardwalk's end, a raised viewing platform offers a splendid spot to pause and soak in the surroundings before looping back along a broad, well-maintained path through the forest. The Severn-Break-Its-Neck trail is as thrilling as its name implies. Starting from the car park, you'll meander along a gentle path by the river until it opens up into a meadow. Here, a boardwalk brings you closer to the sound of gushing water. After a short climb, the Severn-Break-Its-Neck waterfall comes into sight. At this point, the River Severn roars down a rocky ravine, its raw power tangible as you cross the footbridge above. The return journey follows a forest road, offering panoramic views through the trees and a chance to recover after the steeper sections. Blaen Hafren Falls Trail (6 km, 1.5 hours, Moderate) For a more extended hike, the Blaen Hafren Falls Trail provides a longer, more immersive stroll through the forest canopy. The route follows a well-maintained gravel path alongside the River Severn, leading you through peaceful woodland. As the trail climbs, glimpses of the surrounding forest appear before unveiling the cascading Blaen Hafren Falls hidden amongst the trees. Benches scattered along the way offer spots to rest and soak in the scenery. The trail loops back via a forest road, making it a rewarding choice if you're up for a hiking challenge. Source of the Severn Trail (13 km, 5 hours, Strenuous) This is my preferred route in the Hafren Forest as it leads to the source of the River Severn. It's astounding to think that the mighty River Severn, which spans over 200 miles, begins its journey here in Hafren Forest. Its humble beginnings on the slopes of Pumlumon quickly gather pace as the water carves its path through the forest, forming a series of lively cascades and waterfalls. As you traverse the trails, the river's sound alters, becoming more potent and persistent. Each stride brings you nearer to the water's rhythm, building like an overture before unveiling its concealed source beyond the edge of the forest. Reaching the source is no ordinary stroll. A steep ascent takes you onto the moorland, where a simple, carved wooden post marks the precise spot. Beyond Hafren - long-distance adventures Hafren Forest also serves as the starting point for two epic long-distance walks. The Wye Valley Walk traces the River Wye for 136 miles, while the Severn Way follows the Severn's journey to Bristol. For a shorter challenge, the Sarn Sabrina circular walk offers 25 miles of myths and landscapes named after a Celtic river goddess. Cyclists can also explore the area via the Sustrans National Cycle Network, which meanders through the forest and beyond. It's a fantastic way to experience the region's beauty at a faster pace. Afternoon tea at Cobblers Tea Room If all that walking has left you famished, jump in the car and head to the charming market town of Llaindloes. Here, you will discover the vintage Cobblers Tea Room on the High Street, a cosy spot for coffee and cakes. Step inside, and you're greeted with the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods still warm from the oven. This quaint, traditional tea room has been a hit with locals since it changed hands in December 2018. Their reasonably priced menu boasts homemade treats. Cakes are baked on the premises, and depending on the season, you can enjoy mince pies in winter or gelato in summer. Sandwiches are freshly prepared to order, and the daily homemade soup is just the ticket for warming up after a long forest walk.
Wales Online
11-06-2025
- Wales Online
This unsung forest trail has waterfalls, wildlife and a cosy vintage cafe stop
This unsung forest trail has waterfalls, wildlife and a cosy vintage cafe stop This carefully managed woodland has plenty of trails to explore It's a carefully managed woodland (Image: Portia Jones ) Stepping onto the woodland trail, you'll first notice how the crisp air is laced with the earthy scent of damp pine and moss, a sensory reminder that this is nature at its most untamed. This is the unsung Hafren Forest in Mid Wales, where you'll find cascading waters, trails, and a vintage café a short drive away. Hafren is a carefully managed woodland with a fascinating history and plenty of trails to explore. The Forestry Commission originally planted it in the 1930s for timber production, but today, it offers far more than just rows of trees. Managed by Natural Resources Wales, the forest now strikes a balance between commercial forestry, conservation, and public enjoyment, making it a vital habitat for wildlife and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The name Hafren comes from the Welsh word for the River Severn (Afon Hafren), which begins its epic journey to the sea right here. Over the decades, Hafren Forest has evolved into a popular and accessible walking destination, with its mix of natural beauty, heritage features and well-maintained trails attracting visitors year-round. The trails here are well-marked and inviting, winding through groves of pines and firs. Their natural symmetry forms archways overhead, framing the path ahead. When sunlight breaks through the clouded sky, it pours in golden beams, illuminating leaves and bark. Article continues below The river takes centre stage here. The Afon Hafren, better known as the River Severn, begins its journey on the slopes of Pumlumon, with its hidden source waiting just beyond the forest. At first, it's no more than a gentle stream weaving its way through the trees with a calm determination. But it doesn't stay quiet for long. It gathers strength as it tumbles over rocky ledges, transforming into roaring waterfalls that cut through the landscape with relentless energy. The forest trails I love the forest trails (Image: Portia Jones ) There are plenty of trails to discover here, and they are waymarked from start to finish. Starting at the Rhyd-y-benwch car park, the paths lead you through towering trees, past rushing waterfalls, and even to the hidden source of the River Severn. Cascades Walk (0.9 km, 30 minutes, Accessible) The Cascades Walk offers a gentle stroll and welcomes visitors of all abilities. It starts with a sloping path from the car park and leads to a picturesque boardwalk that hugs the riverbank. Along the route, cascading water tumbles over rocks, providing a soothing soundtrack for your forest hike. At the end of the boardwalk, a raised viewing platform offers a wonderful vantage point to pause and take it all in before looping back along a wide, well-surfaced path through the forest. Severn-Break-its-Neck Trail (2.3 km, 1 hour, Moderate) This trail is as dramatic as its name suggests. Beginning at the car park, you'll follow a gently winding path along the river before it opens into a meadow, where a boardwalk takes you closer to the sound of rushing water. After a brief climb, the Severn-Break-Its-Neck waterfall comes into view. Here, the River Severn thunders down a rocky gully, its raw energy palpable as you cross the footbridge above. The return leg follows a forest road, offering sweeping views through the trees and a chance to catch your breath after the steeper sections. There are plenty of trails to discover here (Image: Portia Jones ) Blaen Hafren Falls Trail (6 km, 1.5 hours, Moderate) For a longer hike, the Blaen Hafren Falls Trail offers a longer, more immersive walk through the forest canopy. The route follows a well-surfaced gravel path alongside the River Severn, leading you through tranquil woodland. As the trail ascends, glimpses of the surrounding forest emerge before revealing the cascading Blaen Hafren Falls hidden among the trees. Benches along the way provide spots to rest and take in the scenery. The trail loops back via a forest road, making it a rewarding option if you want a hiking challenge. You'll see rushing waterfalls here (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto ) Source of the Severn Trail (13 km, 5 hours, Strenuous) This is my favourite route in the Hafren Forest as it leads to the source of the River Severn. It's remarkable to think that the mighty River Severn, which spans over 200 miles, begins its journey here in Hafren Forest. Its humble origins on the slopes of Pumlumon quickly gain momentum as the water carves its way through the forest, forming a series of lively cascades and waterfalls. As you follow the trails, the sound of the river changes, growing stronger and more insistent. Each step brings you closer to the rhythm of the water, building like an overture before revealing its hidden source beyond the forest's edge. Reaching the source is no ordinary walk. A steep climb takes you onto the moorland, where a simple, carved wooden post marks the exact spot. This is my favourite route in the Hafren Forest as it leads to the source of the River Severn. (Image: Portia Jones ) Beyond Hafren: long-distance adventures Hafren Forest is also the starting point for two epic long-distance walks. The Wye Valley Walk follows the River Wye for 136 miles, while the Severn Way traces the Severn's journey to Bristol. For a shorter challenge, the Sarn Sabrina circular walk offers 25 miles of myths and landscapes named after a Celtic river goddess. Cyclists can also explore the area via the Sustrans National Cycle Network, which winds through the forest and beyond. It's a great way to experience the region's beauty faster. Afternoon tea at Cobblers Tea Room Cobblers Tea Room is worth visiting (Image: Portia Jones ) If all that walking has left you starving, hop in the car and head to the charming market town of Llaindloes. Here, you will find the vintage Cobblers Tea Room on the High Street, a cosy spot for coffee and cakes. Step inside, and you're met with the comforting smell of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods still warm from the oven. This cosy, traditional tea room has welcomed visitors since coming under new management in December 2018, and has become a local favourite. Their well-priced menu features homemade delights. Cakes are baked on-site, and seasonal offerings include mince pies in winter and gelato in summer. Sandwiches are made fresh to order, and the daily homemade soup is perfect for warming up after a big forest hike. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Article continues below For more information on the Hafren Forest, click here
Wales Online
11-06-2025
- General
- Wales Online
UK households given squirrel warning - urged to be on alert 'now'
UK households given squirrel warning - urged to be on alert 'now' Many people like watching grey squirrels hop around their gardens but few know they are actually a foreign invader and can damage gardens, kill birds and even impact your house The grey squirrels have driven out the traditional British red squirrel (Image: A J Withey via Getty Images ) Grey squirrels, while often seen as a charming addition to our gardens, are in fact foreign invaders that have forced out the native British red squirrels and can wreak havoc on gardens, harm birds and even pose a threat to your home. If left unchecked, these grey intruders could infiltrate your loft space, damage timber structures or even tear through plumbing and electrical wiring. Moreover, they pose a significant threat to breeding and nesting birds in gardens. According to British Red Squirrel a Forestry Commission survey investigating vulnerable woodlands across Great Britain found that every sycamore stand had been damaged by grey squirrels along with 66% of beech and 30% of oak and sweet chestnut. These invasive mammals also kill and consume wild bird eggs and chicks in residential gardens. The organisation further stated: "Grey squirrels eat song-bird chicks and eggs. Research carried out by the Game Conservancy and Wildlife Trust demonstrates that grey squirrels have an adverse impact on many native woodland birds, reducing fledging rates by an average of 15%. "Grey squirrels can damage maize and fruit crops. They are a threat to orchards and market gardens. They destroy bulbs and corms, eat tree nuts, recently sown seeds and enter into roof voids, damaging thatched and shingled roofs, telephone wires and electricity cables," reports the Express. "Grey squirrels have driven the native red squirrel to localised extinctions by out-competing the red squirrel for food and habitat and by carrying a lethal squirrel pox virus to which it is immune but which is deadly to the native red squirrel." Article continues below To deter unwelcome squirrels, gardeners can sprinkle chilli powder, disliked intensely by squirrels. However it affects both the much-loved British reds and the invasive greys. has called on residents to check now if they live in an area with red squirrels or with a reintroduction scheme, stating: "Please contact the conservation group in your area. If you live in an area with only grey squirrels, look on the map to see if there is a grey control project nearby." Additionally, the organisation encourages the formation of community initiatives against the animals urging: "Please consider setting up a community grey control group." Article continues below Beyond troubling gardens and threatening local wildlife, grey squirrels pose potential risks to property too. Homeowners with grey squirrels inside their property are advised to seek help by property buying specialists Gaffsy, which warns: "If they manage to invade your roof space, they can damage your roof timbers, plumbing and electrical wiring with their biting." The experts added: "If you currently have grey squirrels nesting in your roof, we would recommend contacting Environmental Health who will be able to address the issue. "To prevent any further grey squirrels from nesting on your roof, it's important to fix any damage to your roof, such as the eaves and soffits, to prevent them from gaining access. Similarly, use a durable wire mesh and cut back any tree branches to block access."
