Extensive survey work establishing Glen Prosen as 'living laboratory' for nature recovery and climate resilience

Crucial environmental and ecological surveys conducted in Glen Prosen will shape how the land will be managed to boost biodiversity, restore habitats, and support climate resilience across the Angus Glens. 

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has completed nearly 30 surveys that have captured a detailed snapshot of the glen’s wildlife, soil, water, and vegetation.

Species such as raptors, black grouse, ptarmigan, and golden eagles were closely monitored, with a dedicated Golden Eagle Topographical Study helping identify key areas for native woodland creation and eagle conservation. 

Data was also collected on various mammal species including bats, mountain hare and deer.

The results will inform targeted management plans—boosting populations of desired species while controlling those that hinder habitat recovery.

Christine Reid, the Angus Glens Programme Manager for FLS said:

“We now have a rich dataset that will guide how we restore and manage Glen Prosen’s landscapes. The sweeping series of environmental and ecological surveys will lay the groundwork for one of Scotland’s most ambitious landscape restoration efforts.

“These findings will help us protect vulnerable species, create new habitats, and measure how biodiversity responds to change over time.

“Already, deer numbers have been significantly reduced to allow vegetation to regenerate, and fencing along the river has been completed in preparation for tree planting later this year under the Nature Restoration Fund.”

The surveys revealed:

• High numbers of rare and scarce terrestrial invertebrates
• Low biodiversity among aquatic invertebrates
• Absence of freshwater pearl mussels and suitable habitat
• Presence of key mammal species including bats, deer, and mountain hares, but absence of other species like water voles

The Glen Prosen survey work is part of a wider integrated land management strategy across the Angus Glens, in collaboration with partners such as Scottish Water, NatureScot, and the Cairngorms National Park Authority. Together, these efforts support the Scottish Government’s goals for nature recovery, climate adaptation, and community wellbeing.

Christine added:

“Glen Prosen is becoming a ‘living laboratory’—a place where ecology, learning, and people come together. We’d like to show how landscape-scale collaboration can deliver real change, not just for nature, but for local communities and Scotland’s future."

The Angus Glens land management plan is already generating local employment, and as restoration work expands, it will create new opportunities for contractors, tourism, and community-led businesses. The vision is clear: a thriving, biodiverse landscape that supports both people and planet.

A summary of the surveys can be found here: FLS Glen Prosen: Summary of Baseline Surveys undertaken 2022 to 2025

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.
2. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | X.com/ForestryLS 
3. Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot