Dyemill Land Management Plan
Dyemill Land Management Plan navigation
Following extensive analysis and consultation, the Dyemill Forest Land Management Plan was formally approved by Scottish Forestry's Central Conservancy in September 2026 and is scheduled for renewal by September 2036.
The Dyemill Land Management unit is located on the east side of the island of Arran between Lamlash and Whiting Bay. Covering an area of 1267 hectares (ha), the area comprises of a mix of commercial coniferous plantations, native broadleaved woodland, and open ground.
It is part of Scotland’s national forests and land, owned by Scottish Ministers on behalf of the people of Scotland, and managed by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS).
Renaming Land Management Plans as Long Term Plans
Land Management Plans are in the process of becoming known as Long Term Plans, a change needed as a result of changes taking place in legislation.
The Land Reform Act introduces an alternative use for the term Land Management Plan which relates specifically to the forthcoming obligations set out under this banner. These terms are used interchangeably on our website, but both currently reference our plans developed in line with the UK Forestry Standard.
Location
Long term vision
Dyemill will continue to provide sustainable timber volumes from a range of conifers while continuing to support and provide habitat for nationally important species such as hen harriers, grouse and red squirrels. Over time the woodland’s age structure and species composition will become more diverse, consequently increasing the woodland’s resilience to the effects of pests, diseases and climate change.
Management objectives (next ten years)
- Sustainable timber production
- Increased areas of low-density forest edge habitat are established to benefit priority species
- Improved crop resilience to extreme weather events via coupe design and appropriately scheduled silvicultural interventions
- Target removal of remaining larch species and restock with appropriate species
- Provide a quality experience for visitors within visitor zones
Summary of planned operations (next ten years)
Total plan area = 1268 ha
Felling = 278.9 ha
Restocking = 268.3 ha
Forest roads = 800 metres of new roading
How is the forest likely to change over the next twenty years?
There will be a significant reduction in Sitka spruce (c. 32% reduction over 20 years) and the proportions of native broadleaves and alternative conifers within the forest will increase. There will be more diversity of structure within the forest as a result of appropriate phasing of felling operations.
Some areas of existing mature conifer trees will be retained to benefit red squirrels and other wildlife and, where appropriate, will be allowed to age and die in situ providing valuable deadwood habitats for wildlife.
The full land management plan for Dyemill (2026 to 2036) and supporting maps are available to download below.
Get in touch
If you would like further information or have any questions about this plan, please contact: enquiries.south@forestryandland.gov.scot
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