FLS tackling challenging harvesting operation on steep slopes above popular Inverness to Skye route

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is harvesting conifer trees above the A890 along the shores of Loch Carron in a bid to reduce the risks of rockfall and landslides.

The recent spate of storms has resulted in trees being blown over putting the A890 – a key road route between the Isle of Skye and Inverness – at risk of closure if no action is taken.

The operation at Ardnarff will involve a challenging combination of conventional harvesting as well as skyline work. There will be traffic management implemented for the duration of the harvesting work which could be up to 12 weeks.

The conifers will be replaced by native woodland with a range of species including oak, ash and birch that will strengthen soil cohesion and provide a protective barrier to rockfall. This will also provide enhanced wildlife habitat and blend in with existing fragments of native woodland along Loch Carron.

In the interim, the root plates of the harvested trees will be left in the ground to bind up the soil and continue to provide slope stability. The removal of toppled trees will also ensure natural watercourses coming down off the hill are kept clear for a constant and steady flow.

FLS Assistant Operations Manager for the North Region, Guy Muir said:

“Our forest sits within the risk zone for both the A890 as well as the adjacent railway line so it’s important we tackle this job and look to safeguard this pivotal transport route. 

“This area is already renowned for rockfalls, debris flows and landslides. The recent storms, having blown down some trees towards the A890, have now increased the risk of trees falling onto the road and railway line.

“Additionally, wind blow rips the tree root plates from the soil increasing the chance of debris such as soil and rocks flowing onto the infrastructure especially with any heavy rain.

“FLS is working with our contractors, including Tilhill Forestry and Duffy Skylining. Due to the nature of the operation, traffic management is in place to ensure the safety of road users and FLS staff and contractors on site.”

The operation has been scheduled for summer due to the anticipated drier weather. Less rain, and reduced wind mean safer and more efficient working conditions.

Guy said: 

“We understand that this will inevitably cause some minor frustrations and we apologise for this in advance but we will work with our geo-technical team and our partners and Highland Council, to minimise any inconvenience.”

The harvesting and eventual restocking operation at Ardnarff is part of FLS’ continuing efforts to manage the replacement of conifers on steep slopes above key transport routes – including the A82 project – to mitigate against future hill slips and windblow.

Guy added:

“Operations like these are complex and expensive but necessary, they reduce the potential risk to public safety, the costs and risks of emergency repairs and the significant disruption to local communities and the rural and national economy.”

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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