AMERICA’S “father of the national parks” could help create the newest nature reserve in his Scottish homeland, The National can reveal.
Dunbar-born John Muir convinced US President Theodore Roosevelt to protect Yosemite Valley, Sequoia National Park and other wilderness areas for future generations in the early 1900s. More than 100 years later, the ecology pioneer’s legacy could aid the creation of a “vast” new nature reserve in the hills of Dumfries and Galloway.
The John Muir Trust, which defends wild spaces in his name, has pledged £100,000 to a community’s bid to buy 10,500 acres of Langholm Moor from Buccleuch Estates, the company owned by the Duke of Buccleuch.
The Langholm Initiative, made up of residents from the village of the same name, wants to raise £6 million to purchase and protect the land in what could become the biggest buy-out of its kind.
It’s hoped that the native wildlife, including rarely seen bird species, will attract eco-tourists to what will be named the Tarras Valley Nature Reserve.
The Initiative has applied to the Scottish Land Fund for half of the cash and has today launched a crowdfunding appeal to raise the rest.
The John Muir Trust’s pledge makes up a significant amount of that. Its Mike Daniels commented: “We are extremely excited about this project. Its ambition and vision is what has attracted us to it and today we are pledging £100,000 to support the community’s purchase of the land.
“The protection and restoration of wild places and the regeneration of rural communities goes hand in hand and we are delighted to support this inspiring initiative. We call on other organisations to follow our lead and support the Langholm Initiative.”
Kevin Cumming, the Langholm Initiative’s project leader, said: “We are extremely grateful to the John Muir Trust for their support. It is the highest compliment for them to offer a significant financial pledge and demonstrates great confidence in the project.”
Cumming went on: “At a time of climate emergency, we are committing to undertake direct climate action – including restoration of globally precious peatlands and ancient woodlands, alongside the creation of new native woodlands. Langholm moor is home to a host of iconic wildlife such as black grouse, Short-eared owls and merlin, and is a stronghold for hen harriers – the most persecuted bird of prey in the UK.
“If people can support us by donating to this project we will be ensuring a more positive future for our
children.”
The appeal is live at www.gofundme.com/langholm-moor-buyout.
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