3/301 BALMACARA WOODLAND MANAGEMENT
   
Lead Organisation: The National Trust for Scotland
Total Cost: £328,415
Millennium Commission Grant: £105,000
 

This project has brought into management 490ha of land which will eventually form continuous native woodland from Kyle of Lochalsh to Plockton, in Lochaber. The proposals have attracted strong support in the local community and received the backing of the crofters concerned who appreciate the long-term benefits that will arise from sustainable management of an enhanced woodland resource. The new woodland is being achieved entirely by natural regeneration, with no new planting having been carried out. Stock fencing and the management and monitoring of the natural deer populations are encouraging natural regeneration. Non-native conifers and rhododendron, which covered a large part of the property, have been removed. 12kms of paths and old roads have been improved to provide walks for visitors and locals through the woodlands and a link with other visitor attractions in the area. One area of woodland adjoining Kyle of Lochalsh has become a community wood to be used by the local school. Although not part of the Millennium Forest project, the new visitor centre recently established at Balmacara Square which will act as a focal point for the woodlands and the management work being done by the National Trust for Scotland.

(Click map to enlarge)