Deer management opportunity on Arran
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is offering a business opportunity for the management of red deer numbers across the FLS forest and land holding on Arran.
The opportunity will give the successful business an initial one-year permission with a possibility of extension.
The eventual permission holder must hold the appropriate qualifications and will have full responsibility for ensuring all deer are culled, and carcasses processed, in line with industry Best Practice, SQWV standards and Large Game Meat Hygiene regulations.
Audrey Watson, FLS Area Wildlife Manager, said;
“We’re looking to award a permission to a relevant individual or business who can undertake to humanely and safely manage red deer on FLS land on Arran to ensure we manage the red deer population to sustainable levels.
“It’s important that we do this in order to protect woodlands and other important habitats on Arran from unacceptable levels of damage caused from high deer population levels which result in excessive browsing and damage. It is also important for the overall and long-term health of the red deer population on the island.
“It could offer the permit holder a great way to also provide experience and additional training to others who are interested in taking up this line of work in future.
The approximate cull figures required are between 230-250 Red Deer per annum and FLS will retain the venison and all associated by-products.
Anyone interested in applying can get more information and relevant documents by emailing jennifer.weir@forestryandland.gov.scot.
Notes to editors
- Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
- forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS
- Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Senior Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot