The Glenrickard land management unit is located between the towns of Brodick and Lamlash on the east of the island of Arran. Covering an area of approximately 1800 hectares of which approximately 1200 hectares are afforested with a mix of coniferous species and native broadleaves. It is part of Scotland’s national forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers on behalf of the people of Scotland and managed by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS). 

The current land management plan identifies management objectives and sets out our operations over a 10 year period. The successful delivery of this plan will contribute to the objectives of FLS' Corporate Plan, as well as the priorities, objectives and vision of Scotland's Forestry Strategy. 

The plan was developed in accordance with the requirements of the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) and has been approved by Scottish Forestry. The UKFS is the benchmark for sustainable forestry practice and the Scottish Government is committed to its use. 

The land management plan and supporting maps are available to download below. 

Long Term Vision

Glenrickard will continue to provide sustainable timber volumes from a range of conifers while also continuing to support and provide habitat for nationally important species such as hen harriers, black grouse and red squirrels.

Over time the woodland’s age structure and species composition will become more diverse, consequently increasing the woodland’s resilience to the effects of pests, diseases and climate change.

Ancient woodland areas within Glenrickard will be restored to native species, and the rich archaeological heritage of Glenrickard will be preserved and protected.

Management Objectives

• maintain sustainable timber production
• target removal of remaining larch species and restock with appropriate species
• management for priority species through increasing areas of low-density forest edge habitat
• enhance species and structural diversity to benefit biodiversity and to increase potential resilience to climate change, pests and diseases

Summary of Planned Operations

• felling = 237.5 ha
• potential thinning = 338.3 ha
• restocking = 262.7 ha
• forest roads (new) = 1560 m
• forest quarry extension = 0.6 ha

Designations and significant features

Designated sites: Glean Dubh Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Arran Moors SSSI and Arran Moors Special Protection Area (SPA). 

There are 3 Scheduled Monuments namely Dunan Beag (chambered cairn and standing stone), Dunan Mor (chambered cairn) and Blairmore Glen stone circle. 

There are also many other heritage features on site, some of national or regional importance. 

Documents and maps 

• Glenrickard Land Management Plan text
• Map 1 - Location
• Map 2 - Management 
• Map 3 - Thinning
• Map 4 - Future Habitats and Species