Our forests are covered by a huge network of burns, lochs and rivers. We also manage thousands of hectares of wetlands.

These are important areas. They’re rich in biodiversity and contribute to our supply of drinking water. They also defend against flooding and contribute to local economies.

The trees and vegetation on the banks of these watercourses are also important. It’s called the riparian zone.

Why is riparian woodland important?

Native woodland on the riparian zone is a vital part of the water ecosystem. It regulates the temperature of the water by providing dapple shade. The falling leaves and insects feed the hungry animals below.

Even when they die, these trees contribute to the environment. Rotting wood provides a good habitat for invertebrates. These provide food for fish and other aquatic life. Large branches and whole trees that fall into the water provide shelter for animals. They also help change the water flow, creating a variety of habitats on the riverbed.

Some of our most iconic species rely on healthy riparian and aquatic habitats, such as:

• otters
• ospreys
• white-tailed eagles
• Atlantic salmon
• water voles
• beavers

How the riparian zone fits into the mosaic of modern forestry

Until the 1980s, we saw the riparian zone on the land we manage as just another place to plant trees. We planted conifers right up to the water’s edge.

The resulting deep shade and acidification upset the delicate chemistry of the water. Soil from forestry operations and road building blocked streams and rivers. Pollution from machinery became a problem too. As a result, life drained from the water.

Restoring the riparian zone

Until the 1980s the riparian zone was just another place to plant trees, and conifers were planted right up to the water’s edge.

We now know that this upset the delicate chemistry of the water by providing too much shade and creating an acidic environment. Soil from industry blocked streams and rivers, and pollution from the machinery also impacted the habitat.

Modern woodland management is now addressing these problems. Precious riparian woodland are now recognised for protecting:

• species richness and diversity
• water quality
• climate mitigation

To do this our teams identify all the watercourses that need conservation in our land management plans. In the northern Highlands, for example, we plan to restore almost 5,000 hectares of riparian woodland. This will establish permanent buffers of native woodland and scrub up to 100 metres wide. This is important to give every watercourse the breathing space they need.

We’ve combined it with other conservation measures - such as the control of invasive non-native species (like rhododendron).