One of the largest Millennium Forest projects in terms of funding and scale, this project involved the purchase and management of the 1200 ha Cashel Farm on the east side of Loch Lomond. The main objective is the re-creation of a “near natural” sequence of forest types, ranging from the loch-side oakwood through pine/birch wood to open scrub on the highest ground. This is being achieved by planting 375 ha of native species and fencing the boundaries of the farm to exclude deer and protect the young trees. One of the long-term aims is to encourage natural regeneration over the rest of the farm except those parts that are too wet or exposed for woodland. A major ecological monitoring exercise, Cashel Native Woodland Index, is being carried out with sponsorship from the Bank of Scotland. There has been considerable interest and involvement from the public in the many events and opportunities organised at Cashel, including the commemorative tree-planting scheme and annual open day in September. The potential for further educational and recreational opportunities is well recognised and to this end a business plan has been produced to help guide the future management of Cashel as a key part of the range of woodland sites along the east side of Loch Lomond.

(Click map to enlarge)