Dog walkers being asked to clean up their act at popular Loch Alsh woodland walk

A noticeable increase in dog fouling at a popular Loch Alsh woodland walk has prompted Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) along with the Lochalsh Community Council and Highland Council to remind dog owners of their responsibilities.

Locals and staff say it is disappointing to see the amount of mess being left on, or right next to, the path at the well visited Ard Hill circular trail near Balmacara. 

Several ideas are being looked at to support the safe and sanitary disposal of dog poo at the site including the creation of an area to compost any waste. But in the meantime, FLS and council staff are calling on owners to do the right thing and clean up after their pets and take any mess away with them.

FLS Visitor Services Ranger Sandra Lindsay said:

“Ard Hill is a perfect place for locals to walk or visitors heading to Skye to stop and stretch two and four legs on the way. But unfortunately, the actions of a small but seemingly growing number of dog owners are spoiling the experience for others. It also presents a real hazard for the staff who maintain the path.

“A recent walk by FLS and council staff revealed around 20 incidences of dog fouling left behind on just a small stretch of the trail. This takes away from allowing people to take in the fresh sea air and sweeping coastal views while keeping a look out for otters, seals and dolphins in the tranquil waters of Loch Alsh below or buzzards and eagles flying above.

“For the minority of dog owners who don’t already, we are asking please respect other woodland users, be prepared so you can clean up after your animal, keep dogs in sight and under control.”

Siobhan Barker from the Lochalsh Community Council said:

“It’s so important that owners have the means to always pick up after their dogs and take the mess away with them too.

“Our woodlands are key parts of the local community, and we want to ensure that they are environmentally safe and inviting places for people to visit and for council and FLS staff to go about their work.”

Notes To Editors

1. 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.
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