Forestry and Land Scotland is inviting local residents in Kippford and the surrounding area to give feedback on a review of how two local forests should be managed over the next ten years.

A mixture of conifer woodland with areas of native woodland, Mark Hill and Tornat, which together make up an area equal to around 153 football piches, are around 6 km south of Dalbeattie, in Dumfries and Galloway.

The local FLS team is hosting a drop-in session Monday 22^nd May, at Kippford Village Hall (3.00pm and 7.00pm) to - this is an opportunity to meet FLS staff, find out about our plans, and for the public to share their thoughts with us

FLS Forest Planner, Robin Fuller, said;

“Every ten years we review our plans for every forest that we look after and it’s time to have a look at Mark Hill and Tornat.

“These woods were quite badly affected by Storm Arwen so a large part of our focus is on clearing up areas of windblown trees.

“That can be quite a dangerous job and when we carry out this kind of work in woodlands that are popular with visitors it’s important for everyone’s safety that people are aware of what is happening. 

“Longer-term, we’re looking to increase the amount of native woodland to improve habitat, and also replace a lot of the Sitka with species such as Douglas Fir and Norway Spruce that will be grown for quality timber products.

“Anyone who would like to know more and who would like to offer feedback on our proposals is welcome to come and have a chat.”

Anyone unable to make it along on the day can also offer comment online.

Improving the mix of tree species will add to the ‘diverse landscape types’ which is a key quality of the East Stewartry Coast National Scenic Area.

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. forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS

3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.