People living in and around Moffat are being invited to share their thoughts on the future management of Craigieburn Forest with Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) .

As part of its routine review of land management plans, FLS is holding a drop-in event on Wednesday 24th May at Moffat Town Hall (2.00pm-6.00pm) to discuss how Craigieburn Forest will be managed over the next ten years.

Sitting on the lower slopes of the Moffat Hills, in Dumfries and Galloway, Craigieburn Forest is around ten times the size of Moffat. Primarily a timber producing forest, it also has important ancient woodland sites, and is a popular destination for local community recreation.

FLS Planning Forester, John Ogilvie, said;

“This is a large and complex site that although is mostly for producing timber, also has areas of native woodland restoration and several important watercourses that link the native broadleaf/open habitat network within the forest.

“It’s a routine part of our business to review management plans every ten years and its Craigieburn Forest’s turn in the spotlight.

“Some of the things we’re looking at include diversifying the range of species and plant more Douglas fir, Norway spruce and Scots pine, as well as adding low density native broadleaves, juniper, and Scots pine.

“Together with plans to remove non-native regeneration to improve a range of habitats, for species such as black grouse, and developing areas of older growth conifers to benefit raptors and red squirrels, this will eventually give the Forest quite a different character.

“There is a trail network through Craigieburn, and we know how popular it is with local people and visitors for recreation so if anyone wants to find out more and give us their views, we’d be happy to see them on the day.”

Anyone who is unable to make it along to the drop-in session can also see relevant documents and give their views online.

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.