FLS boosting biodiversity in balance with sustainable timber production
Forestry and Land Scotland’s management of the Knapdale in Argyll – where priority Atlantic rainforest habitats coexist with sustainable commercial timber forests – has been recognised for positive, sustained, and long-term outcomes for biodiversity.
The site has been awarded Nature30 status which means it is helping meet Scotland’s commitment to 30 by 30 - ensuring that 30% of our land and sea is protected for nature by 2030.
Nature30 sites are areas of land that are:
- not an existing protected area
- managed to have positive outcomes for biodiversity
- subject to a long-term (typically at least 25 years) assurance that they will continue to be managed to deliver for biodiversity
The integrated land management at Knapdale highlights how conservation and commercial forestry can be mutually beneficial. An area that is great for nature can also help boost Scotland’s rural economy, tackle climate change, provide sustainable materials and recreation opportunities.
Knapdale is a key area for FLS both in terms of native woodland restoration and associated habitat management and for continued timber production. Land management plans for the site reflect the equal consideration of safeguarding a diverse range of ecosystems that brings biodiversity benefits while also producing good quality timber.
Callum Strong, Regional Environment Advisor at Forestry and Land Scotland said:
“Knapdale, on the coast of Argyll, is nationally important in terms of its diversity of native habitats and wildlife. This includes temperate rainforest and the important lichen species this rare habitat supports.
“The area is also home to resident beaver populations that have begun to expand out of nearby protected areas, making this site a key example of how Nature30 sites will join up areas designated as Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation.
“Much of this area has been under restoration to native woodland for several years and Nature30 status will underpin the future value of this habitat and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.
“Knapdale is an example of how protection, restoration and conservation to improve biodiversity can be balanced with growing sustainable and productive forests for harvesting. The Nature30 award for is recognition of the fact FLS’ progressive land management plans are finding that balance.”
NatureScot’s Head of Protected Areas, Innovation and Data, Ben Ross said:
“With the urgent climate and nature crises we face today, we must work together to find the best ways to connect and improve nature across the country. Knapdale’s recognition as Scotland’s first Nature30 site on public land highlights the vital role Forestry and Land Scotland plays in nature recovery as well as the wider role the public estate has in achieving 30% of land protected for nature by 2030.
“It is great to see a public body leading the way with this recognition that will significantly improve the resilience of Scottish biodiversity as a whole.”
Additional information:
Unlike Protected Areas Nature30 sites will not have statutory protection or enforced regulation. Instead, the emphasis is on governance authorities meeting agreed and voluntary management commitments.
Nature30 applications are open to landowners, communities, companies, and public bodies. For more information including eligibility visit: Nature30 | NatureScot
Knapdale land management plan | Forestry and Land Scotland
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.
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