NATURAL HERITAGE FUTURES

Argyll West and Islands West and Islands NATURAL HERITAGE FUTURES

Argyll West and Islands

Contents

NATURAL HERITAGE FUTURES 2

SUMMARY 4

DESCRIPTION 8

KEY INFLUENCES 14

VISION 20

OBJECTIVES 24

STAKEHOLDERS 36 Natural INTRODUCTION Natural This is one of a suite of publications which Scottish Natural Heritage has prepared to guide the future management of the natural heritage towards 2025, HeritageHeritage within the wider context of sustainable development. Our landscapes and wildlife are highly valued assets which have often been shaped by human activity. Under FuturesFutures sensitive management, the natural heritage also has the potential to enhance people’s lives and provide substantial economic benefits, of particular value to fragile rural populations. As far as possible, these Scottish Natural Heritage’s Natural Heritage documents aim to identify common goals and encourage Futures is our contribution to putting sustainable an integrated approach in which all sectors work Natural Heritage Futures together to achieve them. development into practice. It will ensure that we take an integrated approach to our work across Covering Argyll West and Islands, this is one of 21 our whole remit and, at the same time, provide the local documents which, together, cover the whole of basis for our engagement with other stakeholders. , each presenting a vision for sustainable use of Caring for the natural heritage is a long-term the local natural heritage and the action required to achieve it. The 21 areas each have their own identity business and we have deliberately taken a more resulting from the interaction of geology, landforms, visionary approach in setting goals for the natural landscapes, wildlife and land use – and hence are heritage and society’s use of it. Also, SNH cannot affected by distinct issues. There are also six documents do everything itself: it does not have the powers, or detailing national objectives for different settings: Forests the resources, or the desire to do so. Many other and Woodlands, Hills and Moors, Coasts and Seas, Settlements, Farmland, and Fresh Waters. Data public, private and voluntary organisations have underpinning these local and national objectives are an important role to play. It is our hope that, provided in a series of National Assessments which are through engagement on Natural Heritage Futures, available on CD-ROM. together we shall have a substantial, positive and long-lasting impact on the management and use of This suite of publications is intended to assist all organisations and individuals which have an influence the natural heritage and the benefits which society on the natural heritage. The priorities presented will be derives from it. used to inform SNH’s input to plans and strategies for various sectors and geographical areas such as Development Plans, Community Planning, Indicative “a bold and imaginative Forestry Strategies, access, tourism and renewable way of establishing energy strategies, local and national Biodiversity Action Plans, integrated catchment management, integrated some high-level coastal zone management and National Park Plans.

objectives for the The documents take account of the views of a wide natural heritage range of partner organisations, which were sought through consultation carried out during 2001. These of Scotland”

2 ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Introduction Natural Heritage Futures included local authorities, public agencies, and Natural Heritage Futures does not seek to replace representatives of private interests, and voluntary bodies existing administrative boundaries. It does, however, concerned with conservation, rural development, emphasise the need for flexibility across all systems of recreation and land management. There was governance in order to work towards sustainable considerable agreement with the visions, objectives and development, acknowledging that natural systems do not actions, but SNH recognises that there are also some recognise administrative boundaries and that integrated issues where further discussion is needed: the roles of action across those boundaries is essential. different parties in taking action and the ability to agree a shared vision being examples. We will be working The framework of 21 areas is intended to be used to with partners to achieve agreement and to identify any promote integrated approaches to the natural heritage actions which are not currently being taken forward. at the local scale; it is a means to facilitate discussion on areas that share essentially similar natural heritage. The The vision statements and associated objectives set out boundaries should be viewed as indicative, with places through this programme remain essentially those of lying close to a boundary having transitional character SNH, although shared to a greater or lesser extent by a with adjacent areas. wide range of partners. A key function of these published documents is to stimulate the wider debate necessary to establish a broader vision for sustainable development in Scotland, and to translate it into action.

The objectives and actions in these documents will be refined and translated into detailed targets through the plans and strategies which will take them forward. Local biodiversity action plans, for example, will identify detailed targets for species and habitats. Also the framework provided through the Natural Heritage Futures programme can help determine spatial priorities in, for example, development plans and community plans. SNH will also review its own work programmes against the objectives and actions in these documents, and make the necessary adjustments.

The objectives for the natural heritage set out in this document link to a wide range of other plans, strategies and initiatives, including local development plans, community planning, access strategies, Indicative Forestry Strategies, Local Biodiversity Action Plans, and the future National Park Plan for Loch Lomond and the . The wider policy context also includes the Scottish Forestry Strategy, A Forward Strategy for Scottish Agriculture, Rural Scotland: a New Approach, the proposed Aquaculture Strategy, the Water Framework Directive, Habitats and Birds Directives, the land reform legislation, and national Biodiversity Action Plans.

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Introduction 3 SummarySummary Summary Argyll West and Islands is an area with an intimate mixture of The key influences and trends affecting the natural heritage in land and sea, forest and farmland. The boundary the past 50 years have been: encompasses much of the ancient county of Argyll, from the a significant increase in coniferous forestry (to 35% of land Mull of in the south to Lismore in the north, and cover), affecting the balance of landscape diversity and includes , and Jura to the west. Arran, Bute and the extent of open habitats, alongside a reduction in native form the eastern boundary. Contrasts in the scale and oak woodlands and heather moorland; character of the landscape are strong: from the parallel ridges and glens of and jagged, island-studded coastline an increase in sheep numbers with a decline in cattle, of Argyll, to flat lush meadows in the South of Kintyre backed leading to heavily-grazed grassland and moorland with a by rolling moorland. Over 2200km of coastline (nearly 20% decrease in species diversity and habitat structure; of Scotland’s total) is included and, with sea lochs up to 50km an increase in land under intensive grassland management long, nowhere is more than 10km from the sea. Much of the and replacement of hay with silage production, reducing coast is rocky with impressive cliffs, but there are also pockets overall diversity but providing ideal over-wintering grounds of shingle and several spectacular sandy beaches. Beneath for increasing populations of Greenland geese; the ocean surface lies a rich ecosystem which has, for a decline in herring and whitefish stocks alongside an generations, supported an active and varied fishing industry. increase in the shellfish market;

Upland areas are generally of only moderate height and are a rapid increase in marine fishfarms during the past 10 covered in complex mosaics of woodland and open habitat years; including fens, wet grasslands, wet heathland, and scrub, with the recent investment in renewable energy, particularly numerous lochans and burns. In the extensive mixed oak wind farms; woodlands, the mild wet climate favours luxuriant growth. This high rainfall with impeded drainage has encouraged the the increased mobility and transportation by road, bringing formation of large raised bogs. Much of the land overlies with it significant changes in the nature and geographical quartz-rich rocks and soils are acid and nutrient-poor. The best pattern of the tourism industry; farmland occurs in better drained areas where pockets of an increased awareness of the need to involve and limestone result in nutrient rich, neutral soils. Agriculture empower local communities in land use planning and benefits from the early growing season and lack of frosts. management of the natural heritage.

In recent years, the most marked changes have arisen from the With its woodlands rich in butterflies and moths, and in ferns, declining profitability of agriculture and the maturing and lichens, mosses and liverworts; with its rich coastal flora restructuring of many of the forestry plantations. varying from extensive dune systems to cliffs, raised beaches and machair; with its freshwater systems and its great diversity There are many developments already under way that will of marine life, both in sheltered sea lochs and on reefs washed impact upon the natural heritage and its conservation in the by strong tidal currents, Argyll West and Islands may hold a coming years. These include a plethora of government-led richer biodiversity than any comparable area in Scotland. And strategies: the Highlands and Islands Objective 1 transitional this importance is given added significance by a high number funds programmes, the introduction of the Rural Development of species in this diversity that are scarce, rare or of very Regulation, the Scottish Forestry Strategy and Agriculture limited distribution. Strategy, the implementation of the EC Habitats Directive and Water Framework Directive, community planning, the land Even the largest population centres are small and well reform agenda of the Government and in particular the scattered and the economy is still founded largely on forestry, establishment of a National Park in the east of the area, and tourism, agriculture, fishing and aquaculture with distilling the expected creation of a new general right of responsible being a major feature on Islay. All these depend, either access to land and water. The renewable energy targets to be directly or indirectly, on the natural heritage. The impact of delivered under the new renewables obligation on energy early Celtic culture remains strong, and evidence of the Viking suppliers will further encourage windfarm development and, in period also abounds both in the archaeology and in place due course, can be expected to lead to more exploitation of names. wave power.

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Summary 5 Summary

Coastal scenery with estuary, canal, mixed woodland and grazing land

6 ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Summary Summary Among the key challenges facing those concerned with the natural heritage are:

The need to achieve a reasonable balance of land use on the Argyll mainland. This would involve taking advantage of the ongoing restructuring of forests, to restore and expand areas of mature woodland, and to deforest some areas where there are sound environmental and economic reasons for so doing. Wherever appropriate, any new tree planting on farmland must be planned with a view to better integration of agriculture and farming interests. Forests already offer a range of opportunities for informal recreation and they can offer an even greater recreational facility in many areas.

Developing sustainable agriculture. This would include appropriate support for farming practices and products that also sustain certain species characteristic of the area: for example, chough, corncrake, black grouse, geese, the barn owl, the marsh fritillary and a wide range of meadow and coastal plants, including Irish lady’s tresses.

Reversing the deterioration in the water quality of marine and freshwater ecosystems and thereby enhancing the resource available to marine and freshwater fisheries. This would include the development of integrated coastal zone management including more local control over sea fisheries and aquaculture, and improved freshwater catchment management.

A strategy to address these challenges should avoid the sectoral approaches of the past and increasingly involve communities and empower them to make decisions about their countryside.

Marsh fritillary butterfly on sedge flowerhead

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Summary 7 DescriptionDescription

A description of the main features of the natural heritage and its enjoyment Description Argyll West and Islands is a landscape of forest, moorland Islay and Kintyre are some of the best examples anywhere in and sea: plantations of conifers and ancient oak woodlands Europe. A combination of glaciation and underlying geology where gnarled branches bend down to touch the dark waters has produced the complex indented coastline south of of sheltered sea lochs. A chain of islands protects the western to Kintyre. There are numerous islands, sea lochs and edge while the mountains of Arran guard the eastern impressive tidal features such as the world-famous boundary. In the south, the long peninsula of Kintyre reaches Corryvreckan between Jura and . out towards the north coast of , while in the north the fertile isle of Lismore guards the approaches to . BOGS

GEOLOGY AND LANDFORMS Throughout the area, soils are predominantly poorly drained. This, coupled with high rainfall, has led to extensive areas of The area straddles the Highland Boundary Fault and contains peat bog containing large quantities of undecayed plant some of both the oldest and youngest rocks in Scotland: from material. In common with the forests of the world, these bogs ancient gneisses of the Rinns of Islay to more recently formed lock away vast amounts of carbon which would otherwise be volcanic dykes forming a series of natural groynes along released to the atmosphere. Excellent examples of bogs occur Arran’s south coast. Much of the area is dominated by folded as at Duich Moss blanket bog on Islay and the Moine Mhor and faulted metamorphic Dalradian rocks such as schists and raised bog in mid-Argyll. These areas provide hunting sites for quartzites which have been scoured by ice to form a series of birds such as hen harriers and breeding sites for insects such as southwest northeast, narrow ridges and deep valleys. This the hairy dragonfly. Within the bogs and elsewhere numerous complex and varied geological history has made the area small pools support frogs, toads and newts and rarities such as world-renowned as an earth science research and teaching the medicinal leech. These bogs also provide important location. records of post-glacial environmental history.

The landscape is a visible record of past climate change and OPEN GROUND HABITATS AND SPECIES continuing geological processes, a dynamic environment subject to ongoing cycles of erosion and deposition and the Goat Fell (874 m) and its surrounding peaks on Arran are a scenic diversity is a direct result of the variety of the underlying spectacular sight viewed from the mainland, as are the rocks. The mountains of Arran are notable for their mountain distinctive Paps of Jura. However, the wider landscape is glacier landforms and elsewhere too there are excellent characterised by lower, gentler hills many of which are now examples of glacial depositional landforms. Fluctuating sea under commercial conifer forest. The remaining open ground is levels and past ice ages have produced a wealth of coastal a mosaic of fen, bog, rush pasture, rough grassland, bracken, features. Glacial erosion has largely shaped the main valleys heather moor and scrub woodland, and provides grazing for which are deeply incised. The lower parts of many of these sheep and smaller numbers of cattle. Open hill ground is valleys have been drowned by rising sea levels after the ice favoured by birds such as the golden eagle, hen harrier, black melted, resulting in the classic landscape between Loch and red grouse, curlew and golden plover as well as Fyne and the Clyde. The land that was depressed under the significant populations of red deer. Islay, Jura and Arran are weight of the ice has since recovered, resulting in raised considered to have relatively “pure” populations of red deer, shorelines. The raised shore platforms and beaches of Jura, unaffected by the inter-breeding with the introduced sika deer that is widespread on the mainland. Where grazing pressure is not too high, rare plants thrive, including narrow-leaved helleborine and small cow-wheat. The habitat mosaic favours adder and other reptiles.

The area contains a fascinating mixture of northern and southern plants, many at the limits of their distribution. Yellow horned poppy, meadow thistle and marsh helleborine all reach their northern distribution limits here. There are a few plants found mainly in North America such as Irish lady’s-tresses and the slender naiad. Volcanic dyke on Kildonan shore, south Arran

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Description 9 10 10 Description RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST under the WoodlandScheme) Grants the under 1998since planting excludenew (data area the in woodland of Extent Britain. of areas intensively-managed more in declined have which bunting reed and linnet twite, as such birds for habitat feeding providesrich also Farmland hay.for managed still areyellow rattle including species characteristic meadowswith few a areas, fertile more and snail whorl the for and liverworts and mosses their for important are flushes Calcium-rich elsewhere. declining are which snipe and redshank lapwing, as such waders alongside iris, and thistle marsh orchids, support WetterEurope.Westerngrasslands in populations remaining strongest its of one have may Islay mainland. the of parts Islay,and Juraon common locally still is butterfly fritillary marsh declining rapidly The mice. and voles for pastures rushy overpreyhunt of birds other and owls Barn islands. coast west to corncrake the and Argyll to confined entirely almost now is Scotland in chough The elsewhere.extinct or declining are that species numerous for haven providesa farmland Islay,intensity lowon areas examplesome for ground,low On Description Vertigogeyeri . In locally drier locally In . plantations, mainly of non-native conifers (1315kmconifers non-native of mainly plantations, woodland (300km woodland broadleaved both of consists and Argyll of covers35% Forest WOODLAND developed. machair and accumulated has sand Colonsay,shell and Islay of sides western the On Greenland. in breed that geese barnacle of majority the hosts Islay geese: white-fronted Greenland and barnacle over-winteringattracts land grazing fertile especially, this Islay On farmland. intensively-managed more support areasIslay.These and Bute, and Kintyre of south the as such soils richer of areas are there but crops, of range limited a for suitable and acid are mainland the of soils the general, In broadleaf and hazel. The woodlands vary in size from small from size in vary woodlands The hazel. and broadleaf mixed birch, oak, including woodland deciduous of types severaldifferent are There district. Scottish any of woodland broad-leavedof area greatest the contains Bute and Argyll and its descendants are, in effect, identical clones. identical effect, in are, descendants its and individual each that so fertilisation of independently fruit produce These trees. whitebeam Arran endemic the are Scotland to and area the to Unique fern. shield hard and royal fern ferns, filmy Killarney Wilson’s,Tunbridge’snamely,here,tutsan, and found all are conditions, shady and mild moist, on depend which woodland, Atlantic of indicators plant higher Grimmia hartmanii Grimmia and liverworts liverworts the and lichen, script white scarce internationally the including liverworts and mosses lichens, characteristic with festooned richly arebroadleavedwoods The Ireland. western and Scotland western to unique habitat hazelwood coastal a also and Europe in oakwoods Atlantic extensiveremaining most the of some has area coveroverthe 1500ha. which fact, In Islay on woodlands Callumkill and Kildalton Ardmore, at as strips extensivecoastal to gorges, in pockets Tunbridge filmy fern filmy Tunbridge Plagiochila tridenticulata Plagiochila 2 Jubula hutchinsiae Jubula ), mainly of native species, and commercial and species, native of mainly ), and Dicranum scottianum Dicranum , , and the mosses the and , Cephaloziella pearsonii Cephaloziella 2 ). Overall, ). . The six The . Description

Jewel sea anemone

The woods provide refuge for wide variety of other wildlife. Salmon, trout and eel are found in rivers throughout although the Invertebrate diversity can be particularly impressive. For reduction in the abundance of migratory salmonids seen example, Taynish Wood National Nature Reserve has over elsewhere in Scotland has also affected populations here. Loch 420 species of moth, including the rare ringed China mark Eck, uniquely, contains the full range of salmonid species found whose larvae live in water, 22 butterfly species (the most in Britain. Loch Eck is also one of only two sites in Britain that recorded at any Scottish site) including scarce and declining contain populations of powan and Arctic charr together. species such as pearl-bordered fritillary, and a remarkable beetle fauna. Mammals include badger, pine marten and COASTAL AND MARINE wildcat and there are also excellent habitats for bats such as Daubenton’s bat which feeds along burns bordering The long coastline features a variety of maritime habitats from woodland. Many woodland birds including blackcap, redstart the beaches and sand dunes of the west coast of Islay, and spotted flycatcher make their homes in these woods. Colonsay and at Machrihanish, Kintyre to small but significant areas of saltmarsh at the heads of sea lochs. Most of the coast, In Argyll, coniferous plantations do not have the same richness however, is rocky shore with islands favoured by both common of wildlife as native woodland but can be particularly and grey seals, and by birds such as the cormorant and eider. important for some species such as red squirrel, which is still Isolated islands also provide undisturbed habitat for breeding widespread, and fungi. During the establishment phase they terns and other seabirds. The greatest concentrations of provide excellent habitat for hen harrier, short-eared owl and breeding seabirds occur on the cliffs of Ailsa Craig, famous for black grouse and can continue to do so, if diversity of structure its huge gannet colony and the recent return of breeding puffins, is maintained. Deer populations, of the four species red, roe, but seabirds also breed on other cliffs throughout the area. sika and fallow, are high throughout the woodlands and browse heavily on young trees. Breeding seabirds are dependent on a productive marine environment. The coasts and shallow seas around Argyll support FRESHWATER a wealth of life. The underwater seascapes are spectacular: submarine canyons, the pinnacle at the heart of the The varied freshwaters comprise a network of small streams Corryvreckan, fields of colourful brittlestars (rare flower-like and rivers with high water quality, and a series of over 300 anemones), rock walls covered in a living carpet of animals with lochs (mostly small but with a few notable exceptions such as hunting porpoises and otters swimming overhead. This richness is Loch Awe) with a range of marine, marl and peat influences. The numerous burns, rivers and lochs support healthy otter populations, small and often isolated colonies of water vole and the introduced American mink. The slender naiad, a rare aquatic plant, is found in several of the smaller lochs. A few, older freshwater mussels are still present in some rivers although they are now extinct in most of the rivers where they were historically found, probably as a result of pearl fishing. The more isolated lochs also provide important breeding sites for the elusive black- and red-throated divers. The Corryvreckan whirlpool

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Description 11 12 12 Description RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST Traditional houses at , Islay Portnahaven, at Traditionalhouses resulting the and sea the of presence all-pervading almost the is it But westward views.many in appearing Jura Papsof conical the and Clyde, viewstowards the dominating Arran of peaks rugged the landmarks: dramatic moreby dominated often viewsare Wider settlements. small and farmland of mosaic a or hillsides wooded lochan, and moorland rocky glens, hidden of viewsare Intimate world. the throughout from visitors attract which seascapes and landscapes its of grandeur and variety the is area this of assets major the of One LANDSCAPE damage. to vulnerable particularly are but species of number large a have Mhuirich Linne the and Sound Clachan Sound, Cuan mackaiif nodosum Ascophyllum seaweed free-floating the of beds habitat, rare nationally a supports which Feochan Loch and Tarbert WestLoch including sealochs other manyare There beds. oysternative has also and terms, European in habitat rare a beds, maerl to home is Sween Loch wildfowl. over-wintering of numbers large for providefood which of both lugworm, and grass eel of beds dense with bay shallow large a is Islay on Indaal Loch glaciation. last the of survivor a shell, hatchet northern the to home anemone rare the of populations dense unusually with Fyne Loch Jura, of Sound the include These Areas. Consultation Marine as identified are areas rich particularly Other seals. common SACfor a as proposed is Lismore world. the in extensive most the and Britain in unique are and worms marine by up built are these reefs; serpulid its SACfor a as proposed also is Creran Loch habitats. reef rocky its (SAC)for Conservation of Area Special a as Lorn of the of designation proposed the byrecognised Pachycerianthusmultiplicatus Description . Tidal rapids such as such rapids Tidal . , and , Loch and , approximation and may contain minor inaccuracies) minor contain may approximationand an is map (this roads private and public from land of Remoteness Islay are a special and major component of that island’s that of component major and special a are Islay of distilleries The everywhere. almost in lived is remoteness, its despite which, landscape a of sense a to collectively contribute character,they in varied Individually crofts. and farmhouses isolated are as throughout common are settlements Small-scale features. Inverarayimportant areas such towns Planned mainland. the on Dunoon and Helensburgh Oban, Lochgilphead, Campbeltown,Islay, and Bowmoreon Bute, on Rothesay Arran, on Brodick include and coast the on located typically are area the in settlements larger few The forestry. and agriculture for managed actively part, most the for still, is and activity and occupation human of history long a of imprint the bears it eventhough wildness of sense a retains area the Overall, lochs. sea of lengths the down and up times journey long the of visitor,because the to remoteness of sense a gives also sea the land, byarea the through travelnow who people of majority great the For area. the characterises particularly that sea, and land between interplay Description designed landscape at Inveraray Castle; Jura House Garden; the Younger Botanic Garden at Benmore set amongst the mountains and lochs of the Cowal peninsula; Crarae and Ardkinglas on -side; Arduaine Gardens south of Oban; the famous Mount Stuart Gardens on Bute and the Linn Gardens at Cove, Scotland’s first private botanic garden. As with many gardens in Scotland, several of these (and others in Argyll) have strong associations with the plant hunters and explorers of the 19th century. This is still reflected in the collections that they hold.

RECREATION AND ACCESS

Parts of Argyll and Arran have a long history of recreational use, particularly where easy access by sea and train is combined with striking mountain landforms, as in the Paps of Jura and Arran itself. More recently, the private car has opened up a wider range of opportunities. Despite having only one Munro, Beinn Bhuidhe, the area is still highly popular with hillwalkers. The distinctive mountains of Arran and Jura provide walks with extensive views. The long coastlines provide varied seaside walks, especially attractive to wildlife enthusiasts. Many commercial conifer forests, such as the Argyll Forest Park (established in the 1930s), Inverinan and Glendaruel, provide access for walking, mountain biking and other informal recreation. The Landscape designations island of Bute is a popular venue for those involved in less energetic forms of recreation, as is Brodick Castle Country character. Many buildings are of traditional, stone-built Park on Arran. Ease of access from Glasgow, Kilmarnock and construction. Smaller cottages and farms are often Ayr, along with the quality of the sailing, makes the coastal whitewashed - a legacy of earlier lime washing. waters the first choice for yachting and windsurfing, and the sinuous Argyll coastline and its many islands make it popular for Historical features, such as standing stones, are prominent sea kayaking and scuba diving, especially near Oban. The throughout the area. Ancient stone circles in areas now Crinan Canal is a resource of UK importance as, without this covered by peat may indicate land that was once settled and facility, small craft would need to attempt the hazardous farmed in earlier times when a drier climate prevailed; runrig passage around the . patterns and long-derelict head dykes above the current head dykes confirm an earlier more actively-farmed past. At Kilmartin in Mid Argyll and at the Machrie Water on Arran the richness of the archaeology and history creates important historic landscapes worthy of special regard and protection.

Designed landscapes associated with historic country houses are an important feature in parts of the area. Such gardens have a strong influence over the surrounding landscape, with ornamental planting and parkland trees taking advantage of the mild wet microclimate. Examples include the extensively Fishing boats and yacht - working and leisure uses of the marine environment

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Description 13 KeyKey influences influences onon the the NaturalNatural HeritageHeritage

An outline of how the natural heritage has changed, how it is changing and the key factors influencing change. The changes described are both positive and negative and together with the Description, provide the basis for the Vision. Key influences on the Natural Heritage The natural heritage of West Argyll and Islands that we see today is not only the result of its geology and climate but also of human activities. These activities continue to alter the area’s landscape and wildlife. Understanding both past effects and current influences is vital if we are to identify how the area’s rich natural heritage can be cared for and used into future generations.

CLIMATE CHANGE

Current predictions for climate change as a result of the increase in carbon dioxide suggest that it will become warmer, Coniferous plantation in Knapdale wetter and windier in the west. The likely consequences for the natural heritage of Argyll and its islands are difficult to predict. significantly impair that same natural heritage unless they are Species that prefer wet, warm and humid conditions, such as very carefully sited and designed. the plants of the Atlantic oakwoods, will thrive but higher rainfall and increased winds will put stress on ground and cliff- FORESTRY AND WOODLAND nesting birds. Any alterations to average sea temperatures DEVELOPMENT could lead to profound changes in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The tremendous increase in the area of plantation forestry since the mid 1920s is probably the most significant change to Already, increased rainfall patterns mean that haymaking is have affected Argyll’s countryside during the 20th century. rarely a feasible option for farmers. The numbers of insects, not During the period 1940 to 1980, over 500km2 of new only midges, could more frequently reach ‘pest’ levels as a planting took place, representing a 28-fold increase over the result of warm winters. The heather beetle is already an all too pre-1940 level. While the postwar aim was to produce timber frequent pest of moorland management. quickly, local employment also benefited as forestry was seen as a more economically rewarding use of hill land with The storms of 1953 and 1967 wreaked havoc in the forests of otherwise low productivity for agriculture. However, Argyll and any increase in storm frequency and ferocity could afforestation has also led to the loss of native woodland threaten timber production. Commercial forestry could become through felling and under planting, and has reduced the area restricted to lower altitudes and sheltered locations. Some of of heather moorland. All this has had a significant and far- the designed landscapes of the area could also be reaching impact on local landscape character. transformed. There is increasing recognition that forests should provide more Government response to the threat of climate change is than simply timber, and that recreational use, provision of reflected in its policies to reduce emissions of greenhouse wildlife habitats and attractive landscapes are important gasses. These in turn are reflected in policies for energy aspects of multi-benefit forestry. These increasingly diverse generation and conservation. The Scottish Renewables demands on commercial forestry are already being reflected in Obligation on energy producers is already encouraging the the readjustment of overall forestry policies and designs, proposal and construction of wind farms in the area: a trend particularly within public forests run by Forest Enterprise and which is set to continue to increase for the next ten years or so. also through the financial incentives available for private Islay already hosts experiments into the generation of power forestry. Major restructuring of many of the forests planted last from waves and we can anticipate that these early trials may century is now under way leading to increased diversity and spawn significant wave power proposals in coming years. better fit in the landscape. The UK Woodland Assurance Hydro-electricity generation schemes have been established at Scheme offers certification for forests which exhibit sustainable Cruachan and Loch Sloy. Renewable energy generation, practices and is acting as a force for improvement in both coupled with energy efficiency and saving measures, could public and private sectors. The current policies are currently help to reduce climate change and consequent impacts on the being reviewed as part of the new forestry strategy for natural heritage but the structures required could themselves Scotland which will act as a framework in the coming years.

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Key influences on the Natural Heritage 15 land, for the most part, continues to be owned and managed entirely separately from farms, although some of the larger estates have an integrated approach. The benefits of shared infrastructure, shared wildlife management, integrated visitor management and increased economic sustainability and stability resulting from integration remain largely an aspiration.

AGRICULTURE

The land available for farming is largely upland ground on Estimated loss of blanket mire and rough grassland in the poor soils with poor drainage, together with small pockets of area between 1940s and 1980s fertile land in low-lying coastal areas or sheltered glens. Low- intensity mixed farming has existed for many centuries Much of the remaining native woodland is even-aged and throughout the area and still continues in some parts, notably there is little regeneration because of grazing by stock, and by the islands. This form of agriculture maintained a diversity of deer which have increased significantly. However, Forest farmland habitats and associated wildlife. However, in recent Enterprise have been tackling this problem vigorously to good times agricultural subsidies have encouraged intensive sheep effect, and Deer Management Groups, guided by the Deer farming at the expense of cattle and mixed arable farming. Commission for Scotland are beginning to address the issue Some beef and dairy cattle farming continues but this tends to through co-ordinated culling programmes. Forest Enterprise be more intensive and concentrated in the more fertile areas are also restoring significant areas of native forest through where grasslands have been improved for grazing and silage removal of the conifers and encouragement of the remnant production. Much of the less productive hill land has been native trees. Elsewhere, large areas of land in the private planted with conifers, and there has been a significant decline

Key influences on the Natural Heritage sector are being both planted and regenerated naturally with in blanket mire and rough grassland. native species aided by grant from the Forestry Commission. For the first time in centuries this is reversing the decline and Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, agricultural fragmentation of the area’s native woods. support systems, focussing on productivity, contributed to this increased intensification of farming. Reseeding, drainage and There is, nevertheless, a long way to go before the woods the addition of fertilisers have improved lowland and many deliver the range of benefits of which they are capable. upland pastures. With the development of new technology, Furthermore, there is still little progress in achieving that oft- silage replaced haymaking. The earlier cutting associated with sought goal of integration of forestry and farming. Afforested this has had a significant impact upon ground nesting birds

Silage bales in Kilmartin Glen

16 ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Key influences on the Natural Heritage Key influences on the Natural Heritage

Barnacle geese from Greenland such as corncrake. The decline in cropping and winter keep to diversification of hill farms. Additional support is proposed production has also affected the diversity of wild flowers, for organic farming and this together with growing interest in insects and birds such as corn bunting and twite associated locally-branded niche marketing and in farmers’ markets with meadows and less managed arable fields. Increased use might also aid environmentally sustainable farming in the of fertiliser has led to localised enrichment of waterbodies in area. these more intensively farmed areas with consequent effects on sensitive fish and plant life. Mechanisation has also contributed AQUACULTURE AND FRESHWATER to a decrease in farm labour and an amalgamation of farm FISHERIES units. These trends have contributed to the decline in mixed farming and in the subtle variations in land management In common with the rest of the west of Scotland, the last two practices that delivered the landscapes and associated decades of the 20th century saw rapid development of fish biodiversity characteristic of previous decades. farming. Before that, freshwater fisheries were dominated by angling. Many areas have well-developed associations aimed On Islay and on Kintyre, a range of circumstances including at the management, protection and enhancement of native fish changing farming practices, climate change, and new stocks, principally salmon and sea trout. Recent years have protection afforded to geese from Greenland which overwinter seen catastrophic declines in the numbers of salmon and trout in Scotland, has led to dramatic increases in the numbers of in the catchments of the area. This appears to have a number both the Greenland population of the barnacle goose and the of inter-related (and hotly contested) causes. The loss of Greenland white-fronted goose. This has had a very significant bankside native trees through intensive grazing is likely to financial impact upon farmers in these regions, moderated only have had a deleterious impact upon the quality of the rivers by the introduction of compensatory and goose for fish. Other factors include effects on feeding grounds for management schemes. salmon at sea, and the transfer of sea lice from farmed fish to Recently, the poor economics of farming and other barriers wild stocks (see below). There remains an urgent need for the have discouraged younger people from following this way of problem to be effectively tackled. Current strategic life. Older people find sheep less strenuous to manage than development in Government on freshwater fish management, cattle and, with an ageing farming community, this has together with the development of integrated catchment encouraged an increase in sheep numbers and a gradual management under the Water Framework Directive, provides decline in cattle husbandry. These trends have reduced the a basis for future work. This Directive is also the basis for the diversity of farmland habitats and thus characteristic landscape maintenance of water quality, particularly within coastal quality. areas.

The introduction of agri-environment schemes has done Aquaculture within the area is at present dominated by something to moderate the impacts of these agricultural salmon farming, with a smaller number of sea and freshwater developments on the natural heritage. For example, the trout farms. There is also an extensive shellfish sector Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) scheme has brought producing mainly mussels but also scallops and Pacific benefits to the Argyll islands. Successor schemes will continue oysters. In the future there is potential to diversify towards cod, to help. The Rural Development Regulation not only funds turbot and halibut farming. A lack of strategic guidance has aspects of environmental care, it may also help to channel aid led to piecemeal development and conflict between

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Key influences on the Natural Heritage 17 18 18 Key influences on the Natural Heritage RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST Walking in the Arran hills Arran Walkingthe in Key influences onthe Natural Heritage developed in response to the Highlands and Islands and Highlands the to response developedin Bute, and Argyll for Strategy Access Countryside current The problems. the of some resolve and island the on access public promote and manage help will which initiatives of range developinga now is Trust Access Arran The there. place take which activities group organised of numbers the of result a as partly arisen have conflicts recently,Arran, on 1930s. the More as early as introducedwas guidebooks, and hostels youth trails, including access, provisionfor Park, ForestArgyll the In conflict. serious to rise giving countryside of forms other and hillwalking of growth the main, the In Inveraray.and Ardkinglas at as such estates ownedprivately on and land, Enterprise Forest on Bute, and Arran in developmentplans tourism example through for areas, picnic and viewpointsroutes, cycle paths, as such recreation for facilities provisionof the has so increased has tourism As visitors. for particularly difficult, access make can information of availability poor but attractions, area’smain the of one is Islands the Westand Argyll of nature unspoilt relatively The TOURISM AND ACCESS RECREATION, legislation. fisheries existing using and sites marine European for up set groups management coastal exampleof the following fisheries inshore of management local for scope increasing is significantly.There declined have species these of stocks but present still are whitefish and mackerel, herring, for Traditional Europe.fisheries continental is shellfish the of much for market The increase. the on be to seems winkles and mussels cockles, of picking hand shellfish; gather to divers scuba using sector thriving a also is There crawfish. and lobsters, crabs, (scampi), prawns and scallops for fishing is Fishing FISHERIES planning. strategic more for opportunity the creates farms new for approvingapplications in authorities local for role new The sea. the from returning or to migrating when fishfarms marine from lice sea with infested become to trout sea and salmon wild for potential overthe concern continuing is There column. water the of enrichment nutrient and cages beneath deposition waste to vulnerable freshwaterenvironmentis and marine the and areas, remote more in especially landscape the on impact significant a have also can units aquaculture Large fishfarming. and interests fishing commercial makes a vital contribution to the local economy.local There the to contribution vital a makes recreation has taken place in the area without area the in place taken has Key influences on the Natural Heritage 19 empower Key influences on the Natural Heritage in local issues. forward Taking the conservation ARGYLL WEST ARGYLL AND ISLANDS There There are current trends to and involve communities of the natural heritage through an approach that supports farmers and others in conservation action rather than by regulation or imposition is beginning to yield some successes. The recent of development local goose management schemes is an as example, is the participative approach which is being used to inform the establishment of the National Park for the Loch Lomond and the area. Trossachs Nature conservation designations path designated opportunities to experience some . Under the proposed new access legislation, the marine environment including the recently identified European sites. It is unfortunate that throughout and Argyll West Islands, the nature of many of the measures hitherto adopted to help conserve wildlife and landscapes have antagonised many of the farmers and other land managers whose activities have in the past helped to create the very resource that the measures are designed to protect. Measures now proposed to reform the system of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) may help these overcome difficulties. So too may a greater reflection of natural heritage objectives in agricultural and forestry incentive schemes. But there will remain the need to engage those managing the land and water more actively in future debates about goals environmental and how they can best be achieved. The richness of the natural heritage of the area is reflected in the number and range of sites Designations remain an important tool in ensuring the maintenance of nationally and internationally significant areas of natural heritage. There is, a widespread perception that however, they are insensitively imposed from outside and that they result in bureaucracy as excessive well as creating confusion about what can and cannot be done on these sites. In recent years, the implementation of the EC Birds and Habitats Directives has served to theseexacerbate concerns. CONSERVATION POLICY of the bestworld’s sailing, diving, surfing and canoeing attract many visitors every year as well as encouraging people to live in the area. One recent is development the establishment of businesses running wildlife-watching boat trips. There is considerable potential for the expansion of marine leisure activities which take care to avoid any significant disturbance to wildlife, particularly seal and seabird colonies. In the Countryside Access should Strategy, lead to the enhancement of access opportunities through the establishment of creation and maintenance of such networks would become a responsibility key of local authorities and responsible behaviour would be encouraged through the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. networks VisionVision - what the natural heritage could look like based on better stewardship of natural resources

The Vision sets out how the natural heritage of Argyll West and Islands could look based upon sustainable use of natural resources. It is an illustration of a possible scenario based on fulfilling the Objectives and Actions in this document. It is neither a ‘Utopia’ nor a ‘blueprint’, but the basis for developing a shared vision between all parties with a responsibility for, or an interest in, the natural heritage of Argyll West and Islands and a consensus on the way forward. It is written in the present tense, as if in the year 2025. The natural heritage of Argyll is thriving, as is the diverse COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT economy which, to a large extent, depends on it. A well- Vision managed countryside provides opportunities in agriculture, The natural heritage is forestry, fishing, aquaculture, informal recreation, tourism and important to local renewable energy schemes in an integrated and mutually communities. beneficial way. Rural populations are slowly increasing again, Supported and aided by a major expansion of home-working. The now well- funded by established University of the Highlands and Islands is a source government, local of new ideas and initiatives. The Loch Lomond and the communities, farmers Trossachs National Park has an international reputation as a and other land tourist destination of high quality. Its example has inspired the managers work creation of more such parks in Scotland including one for the together to manage Argyll Islands. In addition, produce from these areas access to land and to commands a premium due to marketing initiatives associated conserve its wildlife. with National Park status, and the number of people working The view that and living in the areas is increasing. environmental care obstructs economic FARMLAND development and contributes to The rich mosaic of open-ground habitats is sustained through declining rural Basket weaving lesson appropriate farming, benefiting from tailored agri- opportunity is held environment and rural development schemes. Growth in niche only by a few die-hards. Today, the quality of the marketing assisted by e-commerce has enabled farmers to add countryside and the great diversity of wildlife in the area is value to local produce. A small but growing tourist trade is seen as adding to opportunities for social and economic building on the wish of people to visit the farms and development, and contributing to the quality of life. environments from which their food is harvested. Continuing support for high quality interpretation and Each farm has a management plan in place which addresses education projects is encouraging an acceptance of the all aspects of the farm business, with an emphasis on principles of sustainable use in all walks of life. The school diversification. Many farms have substantial areas of forestry curriculum integrates the environment into the teaching of as well as farmland as a result of a more integrated regulatory many subjects and the local natural heritage provides an and incentive regime and the sale and transfer of woodlands excellent resource for lifelong learning. Because rural from specialised forestry ownership. Wetland habitats are environmental management and access provision are maintained and restored. Species-rich grasslands are managed increasingly the responsibility of rural communities through targeted, low-intensity, mixed sheep and cattle grazing themselves, there has been a marked change in the role of regimes which are keeping the spread of bracken under the relevant public agencies. The emphasis is now very control. The mixed farmland supports a diversity of birdlife much on advising and facilitating local actions and the including wintering geese and breeding waders. Vigorous transfer of skills already achieved has made possible a heather growth on moorland sustains low-intensity grazing and reduction in the numbers of staff involved. an abundance of birds including grouse, curlew and hen harrier. Many farms also offer accommodation for tourists who Active public and community involvement in land-use come to enjoy the natural heritage. decision-making alongside joint working between local communities and government is achieving more informed Agricultural support has been integrated with environmental and better decisions at the local level. Active community payments and other measures geared to social and economic participation in the management of the region’s publicly objectives. These are targeted according to local needs and owned forests has increased the benefits generated from aspirations based on plans prepared by community groups the forest and increased local added value from forest with the support and help of government and its agencies. products.

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Vision 21 22 22 Vision RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST Bankside vegetation along the meandering River Add River meandering the along vegetation Bankside rivers coast west from salmon wild when period a After trout. sea of those are as again, increasing are salmon wild of Runs tourists. for attraction popular a as established wellnow and century the of start the at reintroduction trial successful beaver,a Europeanfollowing the byarea the of colonisation gradual the permitting also is It rising. are populations fish why and good, is rivers the of status nutrient the whyreasons the of one is This woodland. floodplain and riverbank developmentof widespread with management riverbank on work of yearsmany been have There improved.has areas coastal in and systems catchment in both Waterquality years. earlier in occurred that damage accidental of incidence the reduced greatly has programme publicity high-profile a while zones buffer by enrichment nutrient from protected are systems sensitive Particularly birds. and invertebrates plants, status their to close are wetlands and lochs Rivers, FRESHWATER and sustain strong populations of fish, molluscs, aquatic molluscs, fish, of populations strong sustain and Vision natural nutrient natural holiday destination. There is growing popularity in walking in popularity growing is There destination. holiday a as area the in renewinginterest as well as transport public of use the increased has cycles carry that buses of introduction the and routescycle of network The favoured. especially areas coastal with difficulty, and lengths varying bridlewaysof and routescycle footpaths, of network widespread a of advantage takealike locals and Visitors countryside. the enjoying and managing those between links the re-forge to much done has It prized. greatly exercisedand widely is passage for water and land to access of right The ACCESS use. commercial for airport Oban of expansion the improvedsince has islands, the to especially transport, air Local established. been have transhipments rail with links and roads, fragile minor the on pressure dedicated identified has GroupTransport Timber Argyll The schemes. widening road- environmentally-damaging, for need the reduced and roadside the by living those for life of quality the enhanced has This industry. forestry the in especially transport lorry long-distance for need the reduced have links transport sea improvedbut road,movedby still is Argyll’sproduce of Much TRANSPORT diving. for reputation international and national a area the for creates and thriving is watersinshore of heritage natural marine The afield. far exported are scallops and mussels Oysters, world. the of envy the is produce quality and water clean for reputation a on built industry shellfish-farming thriving A importance. in salmon equal now cod and turbot halibut, as such species sector.Other growth a is farming Organic basis. low-intensity low-input, a on but farmed still are trout sea and Salmon industry. aquaculture diversified a alongside maintained is which quality water high on dependent is environment marine levels.The sustainable to returned yet not have though increasing are whitefish of Stocks data. scientific by informed well quotas with concerns, aquaculture and agencies organisations, buyer with closely workingoperatives co- locally-based bycontrolled now are diversity marine the on depend which fisheries inshore The basis. local a on input an is There AQUACULTURE AND FISHERIES hotels. local of menus the on appearing again once is it marketed, been not had integrated fisheries management scheme management fisheries integrated timber routes timber which has relievedhas which recreation and with ‘pilgrimage routes’ to and from Iona that link to both the West Highland Way and the Way and also to similar Vision sites in Ireland using the regular North Channel ferry service.

ACTION FOR BIODIVERSITY

Local communities are helping to restore characteristic habitats and native species by implementing action plans linked to community and strategic plans. Early successes of these plans have involved sustainably-managed native oyster beds in a variety of sites, and an expansion of the range of Wave power several species such as the corncrake and chough. White- tailed eagles regularly nest on Jura and on the Argyll mainland involvement in forest management and take-up of incentives for and there is enthusiastic expectation that they will successfully farm woodlands, forestry is gradually being integrated with breed on Arran in the near future. For the first time in many agriculture and other land uses, creating a balance which years, seedling Arran whitebeams have been observed. enhances landscape and habitat diversity as well as economic Control of invasive species such as American mink, sustainability. rhododendron and Japanese knotweed is seen as an integral part of good land management and is carried out by local RENEWABLE ENERGY groups. The wind farms set up at the end of last century are reaching FORESTRY the end of their design lives. Some will be removed entirely but others will be replaced by more efficient units that blend well Multi-functional forests are managed in a sustainable way into the landscape. New wave-energy schemes are being according to a local forest strategy developed developed and for the first time ever, the area is on its way to collaboratively between forestry, community and farming becoming a net exporter of energy. The Argyll islands are on interests and based on the Scottish Executive’s Scottish Forestry track to become self-sufficient in energy production. Some of Strategy. They meet the diverse needs of timber production, the larger woodlands resources are used to generate electricity wildlife and recreational use, and contribute to an attractively and heat for local use. varied landscape. Processing of timber is carried out locally for high value products, a range of craft industries and local use. DEVELOPMENT PLANNING Low grade timber is used for heat and power plants in towns and at industrial sites. Although much timber is still exported to Planning regulation takes account of local landscape character serve industry in west central Scotland the bulk of it is and habitats and allows considerable and varied economic transported by sea. There is considerable production of native development without losing the essentially unspoilt natural timber, both from native heritage of much of the region on which several economic oakwoods and from birch sectors depend. New built development is sensitive to its growing within restocked surroundings and concentrated in locations identified through plantations, that is widely the planning process as capable of assimilating it without used in local craft damage to the character of the area. For the most part its industries. Large areas of design and fabric reflects local traditions but it also embraces spruce forest planted the opportunities afforded by new materials and building through ancient techniques to create high quality, energy-efficient buildings of woodlands have been strikingly modern character where these are in keeping with converted back to native their setting. trees, and already are attracting further growth in craft industries. Through increased community Oak leaves and mosses in ancient woodland

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Vision 23 ObjectivesObjectives - priorities for the natural heritage, and action required

These are objectives for the natural heritage and indicate what needs to be done to ensure that we use the natural heritage sustainably. The objectives indicate the priorities relevant to the natural heritage in the light of current changes. Once agreed, these priorities can inform the development of relevant action plans with more specific objectives and resource implications: relevant Actions are identified under each Objective. Changes to national or international policies will depend on action at a national level and these are identified in the relevant National documents. Objectives Objective 1 Support a ‘customer service’ approach to public services and develop responsiveness to local needs To involve and empower local people in and aspirations through community planning. the decisions and practices that affect Increase access by the community to environmental the natural heritage where they live information (e.g. through local records centres).

The conservation of landscape and the wildlife that inhabits it Provide regular feedback to communities on has to go hand-in-hand with the economic management of consultations, and on the reasons behind decisions. land and its recreational use. An approach to natural heritage Develop forums involving communities to manage care that relies heavily on designations will never deliver the special sites (e.g. the candidate SAC). quality of environmental inheritance that future generations Encourage and fund community woodland projects have a right to expect. Those who depend upon their and other projects involving community livelihood from the land, and those who enjoy the countryside, management and ownership. need to be more involved in the decisions over how it is conserved. Objective 2 Our quality of life depends to a significant degree upon the To maintain a diversity of open ground quality of the environment in which we live. That means that the natural heritage around communities and where we walk and habitats including wet grasslands, and relax has a special importance. Again, these local values are heather moorland, with associated best expressed by local people themselves. plants, birds and invertebrates

Decisions benefit from being informed by local understanding, The gradual replacement of low-intensity mixed farming with needs and views. Given the right policy framework and intensive sheep farming on poorer soils and intensive cattle financial incentives, local people are best placed to make the farming in more fertile areas has reduced the diversity of open decisions which will affect them most. There have been a ground habitats. The mixed farming that maintained this number of celebrated cases in recent years where nature habitat diversity typically involved low-intensity hill cattle conservation and community development have appeared to grazing, and production of hay and fodder crops in more be in conflict. Much of this has resulted from a lack of fertile inbye areas. understanding and a lack of trust. Many aspects of landscape and nature conservation would be improved by Low-intensity cattle grazing is generally beneficial to wildlife. enabling and resourcing local communities to take them Disturbance of the ground by their hooves produces suitable forward themselves. ground for germination and colonisation by a diversity of plants. Their grazing produces habitats with varied structures, Sustainable development will depend partly on increasing the while their dung provides a suitable environment for many ability of local people to have a real say in the care of the invertebrates, food for birds such as chough. The use of natural heritage in their area. Ivermectin for treating stock, however, may result in reduced availability of insect food in dung. ACTIONS Intensive sheep grazing tends to reduce diversity. Sheep Increase local participation in the management of graze the turf very closely resulting in a uniform structure and, National Nature Reserves. unless the timing and intensity of grazing is carefully Promote and support relevant community controlled, only prostrate herbs and grasses survive. Heavy development projects. grazing during summer months leads to a species-poor Encourage community participation in the pasture with few flowers and a lack of nectar sources for development and implementation of Local insects. During the winter, heather is particularly vulnerable to Biodiversity Action plans and in Local Agenda 21. heavy sheep grazing. However, intensive grazing of grasslands once flowers have set seed can lead to pronounced floristic and structural diversity.

ONGOING SHORT TERM (0-5 YEARS) MEDIUM TERM (5-15 YEARS) LONG TERM (15-25 YEARS)

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives 25 26 26 Objectives RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST ACTIONS concerned. areas the in goals socio-economic wider and environmental,agricultural of delivery integrated the facilitate to designed approach an in lie must solution term longer the problem, this tackling in advance significant a representGroups Management Goose Local developed through schemes management goose the While pastures. the on toll their take geese of numbers increasing the as farmers with conflict in resulted has This protected of numbers large attractsImproved pasture initiatives. for point focal a as act and information available collate wouldcentre records local A species. and habitats of distribution the about information Plans Action level through local the at implemented be should which action, for priorities levelas UK a at identified are juniper as such species these of Many populations. viable of continuation the ensure to plans action specific require habitats ground open with associated species Some countryside. wider the to applicable management conservation demonstrate also can sites These designations. such of aims the achieving in essential is managers of co-operation The management. favourable continued ensure to interests particular for designated towardsdirectedsites also be should support Financial winter. in hill the from in brought be to stock some allow and keep winter grow to summer and spring the during up shut be to inbyefields allow which management stock to approaches integrated more through achieved be could This inbyeland. of use diverse and land hill of grazing sustainable promote to identified be should systems support and schemes incentive future for priorities rewarded.is Local habitats stewardshipof sound that so needed is towardsenvironmentalobjectivesincentivesbroader production fromaway mechanisms support agricultural of restructuring A pastures. on year-roundgrazing and levels stocking high encourages support agricultural Current include: systems support agricultural for priorities local Ensure ONGOING of inbye;of use diverse and management stock integrated moorland; heather restore to land hill on numbers stock reduced (LBAP). LBAPs need to be based on sound on based be to need LBAPs (LBAP). Objectives SHORT TERM (0-5 YEARS) (0-5 TERM SHORT Local Biodiversity Local geese . MEDIUM TERM (5-15TERM YEARS) MEDIUM the Forestry Commission. Forestry the by supported plans forest long-term of preparation the through restructured and transformed being also are forests owned privately Existing applied. being noware guidelines design detailed Woodland Scheme, Grant the under forests private new for and forests, public Within redesign. for opportunity providingan harvested, being currently is and matured 1950snow the has during afforested area the of much but Forestry landscape. the benefit would actions proposed relevantand also is habitats open for objective the under traditionalby predominantly createdwas times recent of landscape inland The Objective 3 good practice. good promote and management, habitat in expertise and knowledge share to programmes Developtraining centre. records local a up Set prescriptions. management of effectiveness Monitor juniper. as such land agricultural on occurring species key for plans action local implement and Produce farming. intensity low from products for value added Developand markets schemes. agri-environment local developmentof the in participation local Increase supplementary guidance. supplementary and Code Muirburn revised the Promote glens with dispersed settlements dispersed with glens sheltered in fields enclosed and forests, and woods hillside moorland, open of mosaic distinctive the enhancing area, the of diversity and quality landscape characteristic the To maintain numbers of protected geese. protected of numbers large attract that areas farming for support boundaries; field traditional of maintenance sites; designated of management favourable chough; supporting traditionally areas in and areas wetter in particularly management, stock appropriate with grazing, cattle has also had a significant impact on the landscape, the on impact significant a had also has farming LONG TERM (15-25TERM YEARS) LONG . The discussion abovediscussion The . Objectives The diversity of landscape within the area means that general Lochgilphead, where pressures for small bypasses, link roads prescriptions for forest design are difficult to formulate. and access roads associated with new developments are likely However, designs for both new and existing plantations should to continue. Minor improvements to rural roads such as take account of local landscape character, for example using straightening, the introduction of mini-roundabouts and lighting, Landscape Character Assessments. The Indicative Forestry can also contribute to the loss of distinctive local landscape Strategy for identifies sensitive areas on a regional character. While many road features must comply with scale, whereas Local Forestry Frameworks are able to take national guidance on safety and design, there is considerable account of local landscape sensitivities. These set out local scope for local solutions to local problems. opportunities and constraints for forestry and provide detailed design guidance. The intimate nature of the landscape, Currently, transport of timber is almost entirely along narrow, composed of small-scale diverse features reflecting the winding roads to processing plants outside the area. Argyll is complex underlying geology, means that large blocks of well placed to take advantage of marine transport and some conifers with straight edges are inappropriate. Planting should timber is already exported by ship, e.g. from , be on a more sympathetic basis, which adds to the diversity Campbeltown, , Craighouse, Portavadie, Ardyne and and visual aspects of the immediate landscape. Brodick. Increased use of sea transfers would lessen the impact of timber lorries on quiet roads and reduce the need for There are few areas of dense population but the gradual drift extensive upgrading. from rural areas has increased demand for housing in the towns. This trend may change with the growth of new rural Improvements in communications, brought through new industries such as power generation and teleworking. technologies, reduce the need for travel and increase capacity However, most main towns currently show signs of expansion, for homeworking in rural areas. However, and there are many new housing estates on the fringes of telecommunications masts on prominent hillsides can settlements and in the surrounding countryside. Many of these introduce a discordant industrial element into an otherwise have an urban style out of keeping with the character of the uncluttered and natural-seeming landscape, but good design original settlements and there is a trend towards homogeneity and sensitive siting can reduce the visual impact. Such masts in siting and design that leads to loss of distinctiveness in local may not be significant in the future as technology is constantly townscapes and wider landscapes. Upgrading of existing updated, and restoration at decommissioning is now generally water treatment facilities and construction of new ones in required. appropriate localities fitting in with the local landscape will also ensure sensitive development. As indicated under Objective 11, wind farms contribute to reducing climate change but these must be carefully sited to There is still pressure for new isolated houses in the avoid damage to landscape character in sensitive areas. countryside. Depending on their location, number, design, siting and associated infrastructure, these can have a major There is scope to use National Scenic Areas to demonstrate adverse impact on the landscape, particularly if different from at an appropriate scale how all of these pressures can be local traditional styles and materials. Many of those planned and managed in an integrated way while maintaining constructed in recent decades have been in a suburban style a diverse and high quality landscape, and the preparation of completely at variance with earlier tradition. Individual Management Strategies could contribute to this objective. developments over a number of years lead to cumulative effects. New agricultural buildings, especially the trend ACTIONS towards the development of large sheds for wintering stock, Ensure landscape issues are fully taken into account can also have significant visual impacts unless carefully sited using Landscape Character Assessments and and designed. Structure Plan (2001) uses an landscape capacity studies as part of development Area Capacity Evaluation approach, which addresses plans and thematic strategies for: cumulative impact on the landscape. rural housing; road developments; The ongoing construction and upgrading of roads presents an important force for change in the landscape. This is most acute telecommunications facilities; in the vicinity of regional centres such as Oban and wind farms; forestry.

ONGOING SHORT TERM (0-5 YEARS) MEDIUM TERM (5-15 YEARS) LONG TERM (15-25 YEARS)

ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives 27 Promote sensitive siting and design of new houses The remaining native woodlands should be expanded to and agricultural buildings, following best practice in enable them to support the full richness of their characteristic energy efficiency and use of local, sustainable biodiversity and opportunities should be identified for restoring materials, and respecting vernacular character where native woodland using stock of native origin. For example, appropriate. native woodland could be re-established within commercial forests where it had formerly occurred before planting with Objectives Avoid development in remote areas which are valued non-native conifers. Forest habitat network concepts could for their wild character. be used to guide woodland expansion and restoration, as part Prepare an Indicative Forestry Strategy for Argyll, to of a revised indicative forestry strategy and local forestry identify areas where future planting can be frameworks. A strategically planned woodland network could accommodated, and local guidelines for forest design provide important linkages between existing and new and management. woodlands, thus reducing isolation and fragmentation and Prepare design plans for individual forests following overall providing more benefits to the natural heritage than ad best practice and local guidelines, including hoc expansion. Within such frameworks, large ‘Core Forest restructuring of existing plantations. Areas’ could provide reservoirs from which woodland species can disperse to other patches of suitable habitat. This Forest Encourage the use of sea transport for taking timber Habitat Network concept allows better integration of out of the area and environmentally sensitive woodland development with other land uses, as there is approaches to any road improvement works. flexibility in achieving the benefits of the woodland network Demonstrate integrated landscape planning through over some areas of ground while maintaining open ground for projects in the National Scenic Areas in the first other land uses. instance. Some of the best examples of oak and mixed deciduous Objective 4 woodland are in public ownership, e.g. at Glen Nant (Forest Enterprise) and Taynish (SNH). The active management To maintain the species-richness of the undertaken in these woods needs to be continued and the Atlantic oak woodlands and promote lessons learned expanded to other woodlands. native woodland restoration and associated woodland species, and to As the first rotation of commercial conifer planting reaches maturity, there is a clear opportunity to enhance the value of enhance the biodiversity of non-native plantations for biodiversity, as part of the overall forest habitat forestry plantations network. Increasing the native broadleaved component is an important measure. In the Knapdale area felling of mature Much of the remaining oak woodland is even-aged and there plantation blocks on Forest Enterprise land is taking place, is little regeneration because of deer and stock grazing. Red linking up existing concentrations of native woodland in the and roe deer numbers have increased significantly, hindering woodland regeneration. Deer Management Groups have been set up to address this problem through co-ordinated culling programmes. Sika deer were originally introduced into Argyll. They contribute to the problems of poor tree regeneration, and they interbreed with native red deer. Islay, Jura and Arran have been identified as refuges where ‘pure’ red deer can be maintained without loss of genetic diversity from crossing with sika. Precautionary attempts to control the spread of sika should continue, and should be accompanied by further research at national level to assess the longer-term implications of hybridisation. In general, deer populations need to be maintained at much lower densities to become more in balance with the woodland ecosystem. Ancient woodland in north Argyll

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28 ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives Objectives Loch Sween, Coillie Bharr and Barnluasgan areas. The aim and creation of new native woodland through: should be to link up areas of biodiversity interest - e.g. targeted incentives for: broadleaved woodland, streamsides, open space, rock positive, long-term management, particularly of outcrops, bogs etc. Locally appropriate measures should be oakwoods, to aid regeneration and increase identified within forest design plans, such as leaving structural diversity; streamsides unplanted, restoring previously planted bog areas, and incorporating other open ground including heather moor. removal of non-native trees and other plants Changes to forest management techniques could also improve (rhododendron and Japanese knotweed) from the wildlife value of these forests. Stands of mature trees could native woodlands; be retained in sheltered, stable sites and more deadwood left, natural regeneration where the potential remains; both standing and fallen. Opportunities should be taken to re-establishment of native woodland after further diversify plantation forests by increasing the use of harvesting of non-native plantations on ancient alternatives to clear-fell in sheltered areas and of natural woodland sites (PAWS); regeneration. oakwoods, mixed broadleaf, hazelwoods, and birchwoods. Rhododendron is now abundant in both native and planted increasing the range of benefits from native woodlands, having escaped from gardens established in the woodland such as sustainable use of native area’s mild climate. Its tough, tannin-rich leaves blanket out the hardwood products and opportunities for light and produce a toxic soil, eventually out-competing other recreation; plants and resulting in a sterile understorey. Control is possible though difficult. Japanese knotweed has vigorous creeping demonstration schemes of good practice, e.g. Glen rhizomes enabling it to form dense clumps which out-compete Nant and Taynish; all other plants and it is extremely difficult to destroy. policies for safeguarding native woodland in development plans; In the past, local hardwood was well used. The recent increase co-ordinated programme involving Deer in the use of green (unseasoned) timber is providing local Management Groups for management of deer employment, keeping alive traditional craftsmanship and populations to avoid need for deer fences. encouraging sustainable management of woodland. A Promote greater diversity and use of native species in balance should be sought between the benefits of use of native restructured commercial forests to enhance the timber and the need to preserve some large old trees and ecological value through forest design plans for dead wood. public forests and incentives for private forests including: ACTIONS improved links to existing native woodland; Develop an Indicative Forestry Strategy for the area which: management of native trees for biodiversity, landscape and timber quality; incorporates a Forest Habitat Network of linked restoration and management of open habitats, e.g. core forest areas including the restoration and bog, heather moor; expansion of native woodlands, and multi- purpose commercial forests; diversification of age structure, e.g. through longer rotations; promotes an appropriate mix of benefits from forests and woodlands; use of alternatives to clear-felling e.g. small- scale group felling; can be linked to targeted incentive schemes; retention of dead wood. accommodates open ground habitats and species; integrates forestry with other land uses particularly Prevent introduction of sika and red deer to Islay, agriculture. Jura and Arran, and minimise the spread of sika elsewhere in line with the joint policy agreed Encourage the safeguard, management and between agencies. restoration of existing semi-natural native woodland,

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ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives 29 Objective 5 Fishfarming can often result in conflict with wildlife. Bird predation on young smolts is fairly easily controlled using anti- To maintain the rich marine natural predator nets. However, seal predation can result in significant heritage found in coastal waters, damage to stocks. At present, control is mainly through anti- including the habitats, species, and predator nets, seal scarers and shooting, but new methods are being explored. Scaring is also used to deter eider ducks Objectives attractive seascapes feeding on mussel farms. However, the siting of mussel farms Fish farming can damage the marine natural heritage. Few needs to be addressed to avoid areas favoured by eiders. sea lochs are now without fishfarms and this can affect the apparently wild landscape character of remote areas. Consideration of new fishfarm licences is now the responsibility of local authorities. This provides an opportunity for more At times salmon farms rely heavily on therapeutants/chemical strategic planning of fishfarm sites to ensure the capacity of the additives to combat sea lice and antibiotics to counter disease. marine environment is not exceeded. A move towards this The impacts of anti-sea lice treatments on the wider marine approach is reflected in the Structure Plan for Argyll and Bute environment may be significant but are currently unknown. 2001. Antibiotics may reduce the ability of the seabed habitat (benthos) to withstand and recover from the organic pollution Fisheries are difficult to manage sustainably and many of the which results from deposition of waste food and faeces. issues faced by Argyll’s fishermen, such as the quota system Eventually this build-up leads to anoxic conditions both and volatile markets, need to be addressed at UK and beneath and adjacent to the farm which damage the habitat European levels. Under the current terms of the Common and the site’s quality for salmon rearing. This impact can be Fisheries Policy, the UK has exclusive rights over the reduced by sensible site selection, biomass limits, stocking- management of inshore fisheries (within six miles) and in density limits and appropriate fallowing periods to allow Argyll, as elsewhere in Scotland, these fisheries are dominated seabed recovery. This is now taken into account, but the by shellfish. The management of these fisheries is tending emphasis is still on intensive production, which is market driven. towards greater local management through the use of The future emphasis needs to be on quality of the product and Regulating Orders. Fishermen’s organisations are coming not quantity. forward with a number of initiatives to ensure the sustainable management of local fisheries, including a coastal zone Concern has been expressed over the impact that large management plan for Argyll and Bute using EC funding. numbers of escaped salmon have on wild populations. These concerns include the passing on of disease (e.g. infectious During the late 1990s there was an increase in native oyster salmon anaemia - ISA), excessive sea lice infestation and collecting in the few sea lochs that still support this shellfish. competition from escaped fish leading to loss of genetic This collecting was unregulated and difficult to control, diversity and reduced breeding success. particularly as the harvest was exported to Spain and France. Pacific oyster farms have been established in sheltered shallow bays where there is a through-current. This is a developing local enterprise which could bring further local employment provided that suitable locations are identified and a plethora of oyster strings does not impinge on landscape values, and other activities.

Winkle collecting has been carried out for many years but in the past decade has increased in intensity and extent. Anecdotal evidence suggests that modern boats and collecting techniques are allowing previously remote shores to be visited and picked. This activity is unregulated and the effects on the winkle and other associated intertidal populations are unknown.

Rare sea anemone (Pachycerianthus multiplicatus)

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30 ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives Objectives The likely formal designation of the Firth of Lorn as a European Ensure adherence to best practice in fish farm design marine site provides an opportunity for an integrated and management covering fish husbandry, stocking approach to management of the area. Sites of Special densities, use of fallow periods, use of chemicals and Scientific Interest (SSSIs) do not apply below low water mark medicines, prevention and control of escapes, and use so new ways of working together need to be found. National of anti-predator methods. legislation allows management fora to be set up for marine Promote use of organic aquaculture practices, sites where representatives of interested parties discuss and especially in more sheltered sites. agree proposals to be implemented through an overall Coastal Zone management scheme. Setting up such a scheme here Encourage both local and international marketing of could help to ensure that activities depending on the rich fresh, quality produce. marine environment remain sustainable, and thus continue to Develop a forum for the Firth of Lorn to manage the benefit the local economy. natural heritage features alongside fisheries and other interests, and act as a model for other sites. There is concern about the effect of seals on fish stocks. Monitor seal populations and assess their impacts on Research has begun on the significance of these effects fish stocks. generally and local monitoring is required to look at local impacts. However, the Sea Mammal Research Unit has shown that the main predators on fish stocks are other fish, followed by fishermen, cetaceans, and seals.

ACTIONS

Develop and implement an integrated coastal zone management framework, through local management groups, incorporating strategic environmental assessment, which includes: Arctic charr Inshore fisheries: a zoned approach to the management of inshore Objective 6 fishing grounds; To maintain the ecological value of use of Regulating Orders where appropriate to lochs and rivers particularly as habitats achieve better management; for sensitive plant, fish, and bird species sustainable management of native shellfish, including oysters and winkles; A wide range of actions, some far from water courses environmental impact assessment of novel fisheries themselves, may impact upon water quality and freshwater to determine the level of sustainable use with wildlife. For this reason an integrated catchment management respect to fish stocks and the marine environment. approach is needed, covering all types of land use. The Water Aquaculture: Framework Directive will give increasing impetus to measures locational frameworks which take account of the to improve water quality. carrying capacity of the seabed and water column and of impacts on landscape and wildlife species, The restructuring of forestry plantations and adherence to the and identify areas to be kept free of fishfarms; Forest and Water Guidelines as part of the UK Forestry Standard should help to alleviate the past effects of area management agreements to address acidification and run-off of fertilisers into watercourses in issues at the level of the whole loch. commercial conifer forests. In contrast, the regeneration of Ensure environmental assessments of individual native woodland along rivers and burns, interspersed with fishfarms consider impacts on landscapes, seabed, open stretches, is needed to improve river habitats for fish and water quality, and wildlife species including other aquatic life. proximity to local populations of predator species.

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ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives 31 32 32 Objectives RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST ACTIONS freshwaterspecies. other for habitats of quality improvingprovidethe by will it benefits potential the also and habitats, current in thrive to able be to likely is beaver the whether indicate should this and Knapdale in species the of reintroduction trial a out carry to plans currently are There Scotland. in freshwaterecosystems European The fish. migratory protect help will systems lice sea of co-ordination and fallowing systems, river 5) Objective (see fishfarming from effects adverse be may factor contributing a and trout sea and salmon wild in decline the at expressed been has concern areas, other In food. for species native with compete could fish other or rainbowtrout with these stocking and assemblages fish important nationally support area the within freshwaterbodies Some residents. local Angling Kintyre. in habitat its of enrichment nutrient to due be to thought is this and recently declined has naiad slender water.unpolluted The including requirements habitat specific very havecharr, Arctic powanand the as such fish rare and naiad, slender as such species plant Some fauna. and flora the affecting turn water,in of bodies enclosed of status nutrient the change can fertilisers with Enrichment freshwatersystems. inbyeinto and land hill from pesticides and fertiliser of run-off avoid to needed also is practice Improved agricultural incentive schemes include: schemes incentive woodland and agriculture for priorities local Ensure address: should approach This wetlands. and lochs rivers, in processes natural promotes which quality water high achieving to approach catchment-based strategic a implement Developand ONGOING woodland. and shrubs trees, riverside managing and restoring run-off; by damaged be to likely lochs of catchments in use fertiliser reducing management. fishery freshwater control; pollution and management water waste management; and restoration habitat riparian forestry; and grazing including practices management land attracts numerous visitors and is very popular among popular very is and visitors numerous attracts beaver Objectives was historically an integral part of part integral an historically was SHORT TERM (0-5 YEARS) (0-5 TERM SHORT . Siting of fishfarms away fromaway fishfarms of Siting . marine MEDIUM TERM (5-15TERM YEARS) MEDIUM the area and are posing a threat to populations of ground- of populations to threat a posing are and area the of much through spread since haveThey farms. fur commercial American mechanisms. support agricultural appropriate through promoted be should measures These vegetation. coastal of stability and diversity the reinstate to needed is feeding supplementary and fertiliser grazing, of events.Control storm during flooding to prone more coastlines soft make can which erosion to lead can grazing heavy Continual thrive. species common while suppressed been have grasslands dune the of gentians and orchids rare the result, a year-round.As grazed now are grasslands coastal places many In important. less become has elements trace and minerals of supply natural providea supplements, feed of introduction the summer.With the in moorland movedonto stock and winter the during Traditionally,weregrazed grasslands coastal accepted. be to have may loss habitat some and systems dune sand and beaches to changes significant in result may storms of incidence increased An severestorms. during fail ultimately may and coast, the of areas other along erosion increase may intrusive, Rigid development.planning when considered be to levelsneeds sea in rise and storms in increase potential A nature. of forces Objective 7 Historically, beaver. European the of reintroduction trial a Undertake fish. non-native with stocking on guidelines disseminate Developand activities. agricultural from pollution environmental preventionof the on Code the and Guidelines, Waterand Forest the to adherence Encourage parties. interested other and landowners for materials interpretative appropriate and bodies aquatic sensitive of catalogue a Produce populations seabird breeding important for habitats nesting including habitats, coastal of diversity and processes, coastal of dynamics natural the To maintain coastal defences coastal mink settlements were first introduced to the area via area the to introduced first were are expensive, can be visually be expensive,can are were built with due regard for the for regard due with werebuilt seasonal grazing seasonal LONG TERM (15-25TERM YEARS) LONG to Objectives nesting birds (and also water voles). Breeding seabirds on traditional, longer-distance routes such as the old drove roads offshore islands have also suffered from introduction of used for taking cattle from the islands to markets around otherwise non-resident mammals. Breeding puffins were lost Glasgow. from Ailsa Craig as a result of rats being introduced to the island. The rats have now been eradicated and puffins have On the mainland, pressures on land from informal access are begun to return. minimal. On some of the islands difficulties have been experienced occasionally from irresponsible campers leaving ACTIONS rubbish in isolated places and through conflict with deer stalking. For example, access restrictions apply during stalking Place all coastal development within an integrated seasons on Jura and in North Arran. The Hillphones Service coastal zone management plan based on minimum assists on Arran and Jura by providing daily information to interference with coastal processes and linked to walkers on deer stalking activity. Erosion is a significant issue development plan policies. on popular routes such as Goatfell and Cir Mhor, with Protect existing dune grassland habitat from further considerable sums spent on the repair of paths in recent years. agricultural improvement. Some of these issues are being tackled through the Arran Support a return to low-intensity and/or seasonal Access Trust. grazing of dune grasslands. There is considerable potential for the expansion of marine Promote dune stabilisation to avoid serious erosion. leisure activities. However, wildlife tour operators and users Prevent further spread of mink and minimise damage of small craft need to be well informed about wildlife both to to bird colonies by localised trapping where practical. maximise benefits to visitors and to avoid disturbance to wildlife. There are also opportunities to improve access to Avoid reintroduction of rats to offshore islands such as inland water areas such as Loch Awe, where summer cruises Ailsa Craig. currently exist, but could be better publicised.

Objective 8 The proposed access legislation would establish a clear role To improve opportunities for for local authorities in managing core path networks, in facilitating the development of path networks and other responsible outdoor recreation, facilities, and in promoting responsible access. The Scottish particularly around towns and villages, Outdoor Access Code should help to reduce conflicts with in a manner which is planned and land management and wildlife. Local access fora will have a managed and which maximises benefits key role both to access needs and resolve conflict. to the local economy and the natural heritage in balance with other land uses ACTIONS and the wider natural heritage Produce a countryside access strategy which takes into account the needs of locals, visitors, land There is scope to increase opportunities for access and managers and the natural heritage, and facilitate a informal recreation through enhancing provision and better planned and managed approach to countryside distribution of information. Path networks could be further access. developed close to settlements to improve access for locals Promote the Scottish Outdoor Access Code as an and visitors. Access could be improved to private forests which opportunity to increase understanding of responsible cover large areas and have a high capacity for visitors. The access and encourage greater participation in opportunities for horse riding could be expanded from the few informal recreation. existing popular establishments offering pony trekking and trail rides. There are no ‘long-distance’ walking routes in the area. Widen the geographical spread of tourism through However, there are opportunities to further develop local path encouraging sensitive development and widening of networks including coastal walks, such as the newly opened the skills and knowledge base of wildlife tour Tarbert to Skipness 15km walk established by Forest Enterprise. operators. There may be scope for sensitively encouraging use of existing

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ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives 33 34 Objectives RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST layby Glen Kilmartin in panel Interpretive recreation in forests. in recreation for opportunities local on information Provide Reserves. Nature National as such land public other on access facilitate and forests public and private within recreation for facilities and opportunities increased of provision Support networks. path core to links providing by e.g. needs, access of account take forests of restructuring and management planting, that Ensure whereverpossible. labour local using setting, and use expected their to appropriate standards to routes access maintain and construct Design, less-able. the and riders walkers,horse cyclists, for opportunities of range wide a provide that networks path core well-signposted promote Developand ONGOING Objectives SHORT TERM (0-5 YEARS) (0-5 TERM SHORT MEDIUM TERM (5-15TERM YEARS) MEDIUM ACTIONS interpretation. such facilitating providingand in important are services Ranger available. readily and designed well be should and site each for selected be should techniques interpretative appropriate most The experience. and see visitors that features the of understanding and appreciation encourage to facilities access and recreation providedalongside be should heritage natural the about information and Interpretation elsewhere. applied be could project this from learnt Lessons planting. tree native and cleaning beach as such environmentinitiatives local in parents and children both involvementof the to led has and successful very been has This grounds. school in habitats wildlife as such projects initiate to and curriculum the into environmentaleducation integrating in teachers assist to person employeda Jura and Islay on project recent A suitable. is access where NNRs these of three developedat be could facilities interpretation Further packs. resource schools and leaflets, trails, nature haveSeveral already woodland. gorge and woodlands oak bogs, raised including features, heritage our examplesof best the of some contain Reserves Nature National produced. been haveoakwoods, on and sea the on packs, resource School importance. cultural and archaeological national of landscape unique a Glen, Kilmartin of interpretation the and Festival Midge the include awareness-raisinginitiativesrecent examplesof Good prospectus. this within issues the awarenessof promote to used be should plans learning Community heritage. natural the and activities human betweenrelationship the of and issues the awarenessof increasing through only achieved be can prospectus this in identified objectives other the of Many them. benefits it how and heritage natural the of value the understand people that essential is development.It sustainable of keycomponent a is across message the Getting Objective 9 prospectus. this in identified keyissues incorporating issues, environmental global to relationship its and heritage, natural local the of understanding and awareness promote to plans learning Developcommunity Argyll West and Islands. Westand Argyll of heritage natural the of understanding and awarenessTo increase LONG TERM (15-25TERM YEARS) LONG Objectives Develop local educational projects on the local natural Restore damaged peatlands by ditch-blocking and heritage, both within the school curriculum and other preventing tree invasion. parts of the community. Raise awareness of the importance of bog habitat Provide further interpretation at three National through appropriate interpretation and examples Nature Reserves. of ‘best practice’, e.g. on NNRs.

Develop interpretation through publications, displays, and provision of Ranger Services. Objective 11 Promote the sharing and recording of local To contribute to the reduction of climate knowledge. change effects

Objective 10 The reduction of carbon dioxide emissions is a key issue for world governments. However, just as this area is likely to suffer To prevent further loss or damage to the effects of climate change, it can also contribute to reducing blanket and raised bog these effects. The rural nature of much of Argyll leads to a heavy dependence on motorised transport as well as a Large areas of peatland have been drained and ‘improved’ in continued reliance on fossil fuels such as peat and coal for the past, and some remaining areas are still cut on a small heating. Energy production from biomass is a realistic prospect scale, to provide domestic fuel, and commercially, e.g. for in the area and a wood fuel energy plant is being established distilling. The remaining raised bogs are vulnerable to on Arran. In contrast Argyll is already one of the main areas drainage of surrounding agricultural land or to a lesser extent, for the development of wind energy and has potential for from water depletion due to absorption from nearby forestry wave energy. plantations. Remaining areas should be protected from both direct and indirect drainage, and opportunities identified for There is scope for further windfarms in Argyll. However, care restoring water levels to damaged bog through ditch-blocking. needs to be taken to avoid damage to the landscape, Some sites could be used to demonstrate restoration particularly through cumulative impact and significant conflict management, e.g. the National Nature Reserve at Moine with birds such as golden eagle and geese. Careful site Mhor, Mid Argyll. selection and layout is the key to this. On Islay an experimental wave power project has been in operation for ten years, a ACTIONS new plant is currently being constructed and another is Protect existing peatland resources from further planned. The intricate coastline of Argyll is highly suitable for drainage or extraction. more such developments, provided they are appropriately sited. Higher rainfall levels could enable further local hydro schemes to be developed such as those already existing at Ormsary.

ACTIONS

Continue to monitor key species to assess rate and effects of climate change.

Promote energy efficiency.

Guide the development of renewable energy, including wind and wave power so that the benefits are achieved at minimum cost to landscape and biodiversity interests.

Raised bog management on Moine Mhor

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ARGYLL WEST AND ISLANDS Objectives 35 36 36 Stakeholders RYLWS N ISLANDS AND ARGYLLWEST Native woodland initiativeswoodland Native Boards Fishery Salmon District Groups Management Deer groups management freshwater and Land VisitScotland Sportscotland Authority Industry Seafish WaterScottish Heritage Natural Scottish Group Advisory Fisheries Inshore Scottish Departments Executiveand Scottish Agency EnvironmentProtection Scottish Partnership All for Paths Agency Coastguard and Maritime Scotland Historic Commission Forestry Enterprise Forest Estates Defence Scotland for Commission Deer CrownEstate Commission Crofters Waterways British bodies public National partnerships Rural Trust Nadair RecordsCentres Local partnerships Plan Action Biodiversity Local woodland,environmentetc. marine, access, - fora and trusts Community groups Planning Community Councils Community partnerships voluntary and groups interests, Community colleges and Schools Police authorities Park National AyrshireCouncil North Companies Enterprise Local Boards Health Council Bute and Argyll TouristBoards Area bodies public local other and authorities Local individually. listed not are organisations companies, private and groupsrecreational NGOs, land-managing non e.g. bodies, of number large a encompass which categories For Note: plans. action to necessary, where linked,objectives specific developmore to stakeholders with required is work further Vision, Totowardswork area. the the of heritage natural the in interests have all below listed stakeholders The Stakeholders Stakeholders and local clubs local and bodies representative angling and sporting Recreation, WoodlandTrust Trust Wildlife Scottish Birds of Protection the Royalfor Society Scotland for Trust National interest management land local with Non-governmentalorganisations Salmon Quality Scottish Landowners’Federation Scottish Gamekeepers’Association Scottish Foundation Crofting Scottish institutes Professional Scotland of Union Farmers’ National estates and Landowners agents Land Association Timber and Forestry Fishermen farmers Fish (Ayrshire)Groups Advisory Wildlife and Farming Farmers Association Fishermen’s Clyde Growers Shellfish Scottish of Association representatives their and managers land/marine Private Universities, colleges and institutes and colleges Universities, Unit Research Mammal Sea Science Marine for Association Scottish College Agricultural Scottish Trust Conservancy Game Trusts Fisheries Services Research Fisheries Hydrology and Ecology for Centre organisations advisory and Research businesses local and companies Private Link Environmental Scottish including interests, environmental with non-governmental organisations Other PICTURE CREDITS

Cover photoraphy Main photograph: George Logan/SNH Inset photographs: Laurie Campbell, Lorne Gill/SNH (3)

David Cantrille p7 Laurie Campbell p17, p24 (1st inset) Lynne Farrell p24 (3rd inset) Lorne Gill/SNH: p4, p4(6th inset), p9, p12, p14, p14 (2nd inset), p15, p18, p20 (5), p21, p22, p23 (all), p24, p28, p35 George Logan/SNH: p6, p8 (1st and 4th insets), p13, p16, p34 P & A Macdonald: p8, p11 (bottom) Sue Scott: p4 (7th inset), p10, p11 (top), p30, p31 NATURAL HERITAGE FUTURES

SCOTTISH NATURAL HERITAGE is a government body established by Parliament in 1992, responsible to the Scottish Executive and .

Our mission: Our operating principles: Working with Scotland’s people to care for our natural We work in partnership, by co-operation, negotiation and heritage. consensus, where possible, with all relevant interests in Scotland: public, private and voluntary organisations, and Our aim: individuals. Scotland’s natural heritage is a local, national and global asset. We promote its care and improvement, its We operate in a devolved manner, delegating decision responsible enjoyment, its greater understanding and making to the local level within the organisation to appreciation and its sustainable use now and for future encourage and assist SNH to be accessible, sensitive and generations. responsive to local needs and circumstances.

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