A Scottish Government research site formerly leased by the James Hutton Institute has been acquired by Forestry and Land Scotland. 

The 328 ha (810 acre) site - Hartwood Farm, Hartwood, Shotts – includes a range of farm buildings and a mix of ploughable pasture, permanent pasture, rough grazing and farm woodlands. While this farm is already in the ownership of the Scottish Government it has now been brought under the management portfolio of FLS. 

Carol McGinnes, FLS's Central Region Manager, said;  

“The farm links two of the forests we already look after in the area - Murdostoun Forest and Mossband Wood and this acquisition will enable us to enhance the management off and access to these areas. 

“Now that we have taken ownership will be looking to engage with the local community and our new neighbours as we work up our plans to create new woodland on the site.  

“This is a great opportunity for us to further contribute towards Scotland’s contribution to mitigating the Climate Emergency and we’re looking forward to working with the local community.” 

FLS has acquired the site with consent for a windfarm development already in place.  

The farm house, farm buildings and farm land will remain in use while the future Land Management Plan is developed.

This will help with site security, ensure that the fields are maintained in good condition and support local agricultural businesses.

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 0131 370 5059 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.