Rainforest restoration boost

Rather than the planned 658 hectares across the Rainforest Zone across western Scotland, FLS teams restored 930 hectares - equivalent to 3.5 square miles – a 141 per cent boost.  

Work to help save Scotland’s Temperate Rainforests involves several tasks including rhododendron removal (to give other plant space to grow), restoring Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites (returning native species and ecological functions) and deer management (to prevent browsing damage to young trees and ground vegetation).  

FLS teams also managed a 13% increase in the deer cull in rainforest areas.

Euan Wiseman, FLS’ North Region Planning Manager, said: “This habitat is home to a rich biodiversity, including a unique selection of oceanic bryophytes and lichens.

“Protecting this environment involves rhododendron removal work and deer management, both of which have been our priorities for over a decade.

“Balmacara has been under restoration since 2009. The work to remove all of the non-native conifers and deal with the non-native regeneration was only completed in 2018.

“Restoration work of this type is a lengthy and involved process and the early years requires regular reinforcement activity to stop rhododendron recolonising and deer numbers increasing.

“It’s great to know that the commitment of our team has helped boost our national rainforest restoration effort. Their ongoing efforts will help ensure that the rich rainforest fragments and veteran oak and birch trees will be safeguarded for decades to come.”