SCOTLAND’S highest mountain is set for a major nature restoration project after a community organisation raised more than £100,000.
The Nevis Landscape Partnership (NLP) is working with four landowners in Ben Nevis and Glen Nevis to develop a plan to address the ecological challenges facing one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes.
After securing Scottish Government funding of more than £80k, the NLP has launched the Nevis Nature Network, which spans 22,000 acres and covers an array of habitats: from ancient Scottish rainforest along the River Nevis, fragments of Caledonian forest, and rare montane scrub on the high mountain cliffs.
It also includes land designated as an Special Area of Conservation and a Special Site of Scientific Interest.
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In 2021, NatureScot undertook monitoring of the Ben Nevis Special Area of Conservation and found that “100% of woodlands monitored were in unfavourable condition.”
The biggest threats to the health of the woodlands were cited as high herbivore impact and invasive rhododendron.
It broadly echoes national statistics on the health of Scotland’s woodland habitats, with the latest State of Nature report finding “just 3% of native woodlands in favourable condition”.
Nevis Nature Network project manager Ellie Corsie said various measures were being considered to improve biodiversity in the area.
“These stats highlight an urgent need for woodland restoration at scale,” she said.
“Together with our project partners, we are driven by the myriad benefits that landscape-scale woodland restoration can offer.
“For example, improving habitat connectivity, carbon capture, improving river habitat and water quality and securing a future for local vulnerable species such as red squirrels, Atlantic salmon and endangered montane willows.
“After months of planning and fundraising, we are delighted to have raised over £100,000 for an initial development project.
“Through which we are going to work with specialists to identify, cost and prioritise restoration actions.”
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The project is being funded by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration fund, which is managed by NatureScot, Rewilding Britain’s Rewilding Innovation Fund and various other charities and organisations including the Woodland Trust, Forestry and Land Scotland, JAHAMA Highland Estate, Glen Nevis Estate, the John Muir Trust, and Friends of Nevis.
It has also won the backing of local businesses who rely upon the health of the landscape and wildlife to attract visitors and to boost for their own personal wellbeing.
Frazer Coupland, CEO of Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am delighted to celebrate the launch of this transformative project.
“Our region's stunning landscapes are a cornerstone of our local identity, the Outdoor Capital of the UK.
“A healthy, intact, and living landscape is crucial for sustaining our unique way of life, attracting visitors, and fostering a sense of pride among residents.
“This initiative represents a significant step toward in preserving and enhancing the natural beauty that makes Lochaber so special.”
Ben Nevis is climbed by around 150,000 people every year with thousands more visiting the local area.
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