Our forests are at risk from tree pests and diseases. These can dramatically affect the health of our trees, upsetting the delicate ecosystem balance and devastating large areas of woodland.

Pests and diseases hitch a ride in mud and debris on shoes, paws and tyres, ending up in new forests. Here, they can spread rapidly in environments with no natural resilience. We're doing everything we can to tackle these challenges, but we need your help too.

What you can do to help protect our trees

You're the best defence our trees have. Before a forest visit, remember to clean your shoes, bike, any toys or equipment and your dog too.

Just take a moment to brush off any visible dirt, and give everything a good wash. This helps slow disease spread, preserving our woodlands now and for future generations.

Together we can keep our forests healthy

Together we can keep it clean

Top tips

Can you help us protect Scotland's precious forests? Find out how with our top tips for keeping it clean:

Biosecurity and You

If you still have questions, visit our FAQs for more detailed information:

Keep it clean FAQs