Land Management Plan

Curlusk and Broadfield

Moray and Aberdeenshire Forest District

Curlusk and Broadfield

Plan Reference No: LMP 47

Plan Approval Date:

Plan Expiry Date:

FOREST ENTERPRISE - Application for Forest Design Plan Approvals in Scotland

Forest Enterprise - Property Forest District: Moray & Aberdeenshire FD Woodland or property name: Curlusk and Broadfield Nearest town, village or locality: Keith OS Grid reference: NJ36424893/NJ39714833 Areas for approval Conifer Broadleaf Clear felling Selective felling Restocking New planting (complete appendix 4) 47ha 104ha

1. I apply for Forest Design Plan approval*/amendment approval* for the property described above and in the enclosed Forest Design Plan.

2. * I apply for an opinion under the terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment (Forestry) (Scotland) Regulations 1999 for afforestation* /deforestation*/ roads*/ quarries* as detailed in my application.

Nov 2014 3. I confirm that the initial scoping of the plan was carried out with FC staff on

4. I confirm that the proposals contained in this plan comply with the UK Forestry Standard.

5. I confirm that the scoping, carried out and documented in the Consultation Record attached, incorporated those stakeholders which the FC agreed must be included.

6. I confirm that consultation and scoping has been carried out with all relevant stakeholders over the content of the of the design plan. Consideration of all of the issues raised by stakeholders has been included in the process of plan preparation and the outcome recorded on the attached consultation record. I confirm that we have informed all stakeholders about the extent to which we have been able to address their concerns and, where it has not been possible to fully address their concerns, we have reminded them of the opportunity to make further comment during the public consultation process.

7. I undertake to obtain any permissions necessary for the implementation of the approved Plan.

Signed …………………………………… Signed…………………………………… Forest District Manager Conservator

District Moray & Aberdeenshire Conservancy Grampian

Date ……………………………… Date of Approval:……………………………

Date approval ends:……………………….

Contents

1.0 Introduction 1.1 Location 1.2 Setting and Context 1.3 Land Management Objectives

2.0 Background information 2.1 History of the site 2.2 Physical site factors 2.2.1 Geology, soils and topography 2.2.2 Water 2.2.3 Climate 2.3 Biodiversity and environmental designations 2.4 The existing land use 2.5 Landscape and land use 2.5.1 Landscape character and value 2.5.2 Neighbouring land use 2.6 Social factors 2.6.1 Recreation 2.6.2 Community 2.6.3 Heritage

3.0 Analysis and Concept 3.1 Analysis & Concept table

4.0 Land Management Proposals 4.1 Existing woodland 4.1.1 Upland birchwood 4.1.2 Wet woodland 4.3 New woodland 4.2.1 Riparian woodland 4.2.2 Broadleaved woodland 4.2.3 Mixed broadleaved and conifer woodland

4.4 Open ground 4.3.1 Habitat action plan open ground 4.3.2 Other open ground

Appendices Appendix 1 – The national and local context of Curlusk and Broadfield Appendix 2 – Information gathering meeting results Appendix 3 – Agricultural use of Curlusk and Broadfield Appendix 4 – Landscape character and value Appendix 5 – Summary report on the vegetation of Curlusk and Broadfield Appendix 6 – Public consultation results

Support documents: Maps Map 1: Location. Map 2: Key Features. Map 3: Analysis and concept Map 4: Future habitats and management.

1.0 Introduction

Refer to Map 1: Location.

1.1 Location

Curlusk (57ha) and Broadfield (123ha) are 180ha of farm land acquired by Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) in 2011 and 2012 respectively, in open market sales. Both sites are located in a rural area of Moray and are directly linked to the existing Forestry Commission managed forest of Rosarie and Greenhills.

Broadfield lies to the east of the existing FC land, where it is adjacent to a minor public road that serves a handful of farms and residential properties. This road is accessible from the B9014 between Keith and Dufftown. Curlusk is almost completely surrounded by Rosarie forest. It is accessible from the A95.

1.2 Setting and Context

Curlusk and Broadfield both lie within a rolling land form which includes a variety of land uses. There is arable farmland on the more fertile lower lying land with improved grazing, conifer and broadleaved woodland on the low hills and steeper slopes and finally moorland and open rough grazing pasture on the higher hill land.

In terms of the Moray & Aberdeenshire Forest District Strategic Plan, Curlusk and Broadfield are located in an area identified with potential for:

 improving functional habitat networks;  the production of high quality timber;  where conditions are suitable the growing of productive broadleaves.

A more detailed analysis of the national and local context for how this site might best support the integrated land management objectives of the Scottish Government can be found in Appendix 1.

 Moray & Aberdeenshire Forest District Strategic Plan (Public consultation) - http://www.forestry.gov.uk/fesplans

1.3 Land Management Objectives

The purpose and objectives for managing this land have been identified following a review of:

 the physical context and existing land use;  the land management objectives already established by statutory bodies;  the physical capability of the land;  the locational objectives identified in the Moray & Aberdeenshire Forest District Strategic Plan;  the views expressed by the public and statutory stakeholders

Analysis of the available information has led to the primary objective for these sites are to increase the area of woodland cover using broadleaves where appropriate and to grow these productively if the site conditions allow.

Additional secondary objectives for the future management of Curlusk and Broadfield have been identified and prioritised:

 to grow a quality timber crop, either conifer or broadleaf, where appropriate;  improve the biodiversity value of the habitats, for example planting native broadleaves in the riparian zones.

The information and analysis which follows explains the reasons why these objectives have been identified and prioritised.

2.0 Background information

2.1 History of the site

Prior to FCS’s acquisition of Curlusk and Broadfield in 2011 and 2012, these areas were mainly grazing lands. When originally purchased Curlusk included a centrally located property and outbuildings, which have since been sold. The Broadfield purchase originally included Broadfield farm, outbuildings and an area of better land to the north of the steading. Following the advice of the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group, (WEAG, see appendix 2), this has been placed on the market, and therefore is not included in this land management plan.

In the more distant past it is clear from the extracts of the Ordnance Survey (OS) maps published in 1874 both areas have mainly been associated with agriculture with some smaller areas of native woodland.

Map 1: Curlusk, the Ordnance Survey (OS) maps published in 1874.

Map 2: Broadfield, Ordnance Survey (OS) maps published in 1874.

2.2 Physical site factors

Refer to Map 2: Key Features.

2.2.1 Geology, Soils and topography

Geology - According to the British Geological Survey Geological Map of the UK the plan area is underlain by a number of different rock types mostly of the Dalradian Supergroup. These rocks give rise to overlying soils with high to medium nitrogen availability.

Map 3: Curlusk geology. Extracts from British

Geological Survey, 50k Geology map of the UK.

Map 4: Broadfield geology. Extracts from British

Geological Survey, 50k Geology map of the UK.

Soils – According to the soil survey maps of this land management plan area it is underlain with a mixture of soil types.

Map 5: Soils in Curlusk; map based on an interpretation of the John Hutton Institute soil maps.

Map 6: Soils in Broadfield; map based on an interpretation of the John Hutton Institute soil maps.

Topography – Both Curlusk and Broadfield are both located in an area classified as upland farmland. The landform of this landscape character area comprises broad, gently undulating slopes rising up to distinctive conical hills and cut by gently graded valleys. The elevation range is from 150-300m for Curlusk and 140-210m for Broadfield.

Map 7: Curlusk and Broadfield topography

2.2.2 Water

The River Isla meanders to the east side of Broadfield. This river originates to the northeast of Milltown of Auchindoun and flows north eastwards for 18 miles (29km) through Strathisla, separating Keith from Fife-Keith, and then forms a boundary between Moray and Aberdeenshire for a short distance before joining the Deveron near Rothiemay.

SEPA has designated the Deveron as a priority catchment. “Priority catchments are river and coastal catchments that are currently failing to meet water quality standards, and which will not achieve improved water quality without a focused management approach. The River Deveron catchment has several designations relating to the importance of its waters which, coupled with a range of diffuse pollution effects, make restoring and protecting it a high priority. The main pressures in the catchment include: agriculture pollution, sewage treatment works discharges, septic tanks, morphology and abstraction. “The SEPA publication “Diffuse Pollution Priority Catchment: Technical Summary- River Deveron” is available from SEPA website and contains more details of the issues and how these are being addressed. The land management proposals in this plan (See section 4) will be designed to contribute to the alleviation of the issues raised.

Curlusk is entirely located within Rosarie and Greenhills forest and its drainage feeds indirectly to the Spey (which is a SAC and SSSI) from the 11

Burn of Curlusk and the Burn of Mulben. The Burn of Curlusk is used by Glentauchers Distillery as coolant but not in the whisky making process. Both Curlusk and Broadfield have wetter areas associated with surface water on site due to site conditions, and the fields immediately adjacent to the River Isla have flooded many times in the past.

Photo 1: View of Isla valley taken to the south of Broadfield

Photo 2: Glentauchers distillery is downstream from Curlusk

2.2.3 Climate According to the Ecological Site Classification (ESC) protocol, the climate at Curlusk is cool, wet and moderately exposed, whereas Broadfield is cool, moist and sheltered. Four climatic factors are used to define the climate for any given location. These are warmth, wetness, continentality and windiness. Continentality has the least impact so is dropped from the overall climate zone designation.

The climate data for Curlusk and Broadfield from interrogating the ESC is:

AT5 DAMS MD Curlusk 913-1093 9-15 64-104 Broadfield 1021-1118 9-13 89-110

Map 8: accumulated total of the day-degrees above the growth threshold temperature of 5º at Curlusk and Broadfield sites

AT5 is the accumulated total of the day-degrees above the growth threshold temperature of 5º, which provides a convenient measure of summer warmth. The results for AT5 place both Curlusk and Broadfield in the cool zone.

Map 9: Detailed Aspect Method of Scoring at Curlusk and Broadfield sites

DAMS is the Detailed Aspect Method of Scoring. This represents the amount of physically damaging wind that forest stands experience in the year. The range of DAMS is from 3 to 36 and windiness is the most likely limiting factor to tree growth at higher elevations in Britain. The results place both sites on the boundary between being sheltered or moderately exposed sites.

Map 10: Moisture Deficit at Curlusk and Broadfield sites

MD is the Moisture Deficit for the area. Moisture deficit reflects the balance between potential evaporation and rainfall and therefore emphasises the dryness of the growing season (rather than the wetness of the winter or whole year). These results place Curlusk on the boundary between the “wet” and “moist” zones and Broadfield predominantly in the “moist” zone.

These results will be used to help assist in the choice of tree species in the land management proposals for the site (see section 4). Each tree species has tolerances for these and other factors and they can be used to identify species suitable for the site conditions.

Further information on these criteria and the application of ESC can be found in Forestry Commission Bulletin 124 - An Ecological Site Classification for Forestry in Great Britain.

2.3 Biodiversity and environmental designations

After discussions with SNH to establish the significance of both Curlusk and Broadfield, the only interest identified is the value of the land to wading bird species. Consultation with Royal Society for the Protection of Birds revealed that there were no priority bird species known in the area, and that the introduction of native broadleaves could potentially provide benefits for a range of bird species and enhance the habitat diversity in the landscape.

There is some history of the previous owners managing the land for environmental benefit and it would be desirable to maintain the benefits that have accrued from this management, such as hedges, beetle banks, wetland areas, riparian woodland and scrub areas.

Reports of the vegetation of Curlusk and Broadfield have been undertaken by an ecologist, and the reports can be seen at appendix 4.

These reports identify a number of UK biodiversity action plan priority habitats. (See map 2 – Key features) Broadfield includes:

 Upland birch woodland – Mature and scrub birch woodland are present.  Native pinewood– To the south is a strip of woodland with Scots pine and mature birch and a well-developed ground flora with blaeberry, broad buckler fern, wavy hair grass and wood sorrel (this area is out with the site boundary).

 Fen marsh & swamp– is found in a number of areas with a priority area as indicated in the map below.

 Upland heath– An area of heath was encountered at the top of the farm on the edge of a mature Sitka plantation. The H10 Calluna heath is in very poor condition invaded by Sitka and gorse seedlings. Within a very short time the heather will be shaded out by gorse and Sitka.

 Ponds– There are a number of small water bodies located on the site.

Map 11: Priority Habitats on Broadfield Farm

Recommendations for Broadfield

 Priority Fen Marsh and Swamp should be conserved and not planted.  Other areas of Fen Marsh and Swamp should be considered carefully before planting.  Margins around watercourses (streams and drains) should be left unplanted.  Existing woodland should be managed and improved.  Hedgerows along the road and tracks should be conserved and, where safe, left uncut.

Map 12: Priority Habitats on Curlusk

Five UK BAP Priority habitats were found in during the Curlusk survey. The vegetation is broadly typical of that found more widely in enclosed fields in the foothills of the eastern Highlands. Botanical interest is generally low to medium with the more important areas in the unimproved acid grasslands, the purple moor grass and the native woodland; where it is recommended to keep some of the Purple moor grass and rush mire unplanted, to allow woodland to develop more naturally there.

2.4 The existing land use

There has been a requirement for a better understanding of the inherent capabilities of land in Scotland for a range of different uses, especially agriculture. In the mid 1960s, the Macaulay Institute developed a Land Use Capability (LUC) system which was based upon 17 a series of guidelines that allowed soil maps and other landscape and climatic information to be interpreted into land classification maps. In the early 1980s the LUC system was further developed and became the Macaulay Land Capability for Agriculture (LCA) classification. This is now the official agricultural system widely used in Scotland by agriculturalists, planners, estate agents and others as a basis for land valuation.

The LCA classification is used to rank land on the basis of its potential productivity and cropping flexibility. This is determined by the extent to which the physical characteristics of the land (soil, climate and relief) impose long term restrictions on its use.

Land capable of supporting Arable Agriculture (Class 1 to Class 3.1), often referred to as prime agricultural land, is capable of being used to produce a wide range of crops. The climate is favourable, slopes are no greater than 7degrees and the soils are at least 45cm deep and are imperfectly drained at worst. This land is highly flexible for other uses as well, such as biofuel crops and woodland, although current management may make other options, such as heathland restoration, difficult in the short term.

Land capable of supporting Mixed Agriculture (Class 3.2 to Class 4.2), is capable of being used to grow a moderate range of crops including cereals (primarily barley), forage crops and grass. Grass becomes predominant in the rotation in class 4.2, whilst other more demanding crops such as potatoes can be grown in class 3.2. The climate is less favourable than on prime land, slopes up to 15 degrees are included and many soils exhibit drainage limitations.

Land capable of supporting Improved Grassland (Class 5.1 to Class 5.3), has the potential for use as improved grassland. A range of different limitation types, either operating singly or in combination, can restrict the land capability to this class. These limitations include climate, slope wetness, and often a heterogeneous pattern of conditions that render even occasional cultivation unsuitable. Land which has had this potential for improvement exploited is much more productive than land which remains in its unimproved state.

Land capable of supporting only Rough Grazing (Class 6.1 to Class 7), has very severe limitations that prevent sward improvement by mechanical means. This land is either steep, very poorly drained, has very acid or shallow soils and occurs in wet cool or cold climate zones. In many circumstances, these limitations operate together. The existing vegetation is assessed for its grazing quality (Class 6.1 is of high grazing value for example but class 7 is of very limited agriculture value). Nonetheless, this ground often has a high value,

for example in terms of storing carbon in its organic soils and supporting rare species and habitats.

Land classification

The land’s classification according to the James Hutton Institute’s (JHI) 1:50,000 land capability map is shown in the table and figure below.

Map 13: Land capability for agriculture, James Hutton Institute 1:50,000.

Broadfield Curlusk Land classification Area (Ha) % Area (Ha) % 3.2 20.2 16.4 4.1 51.1 41.5 12.4 21.7 4.2 51.6 41.9 36.5 63.9 5.2 0.23 0.18 5.3 8.2 14.3

When the proportion of the different land capabilities at Broadfield and Curlusk are compared to the parishes of Keith and Boharm, across whose boundaries the sites are located, it is clear that the % area against land capability of the land is at the lower end of the scale, for all categories except for category 4 land which is above average.

Impact of potential loss of agricultural land to the economy

Any loss of agricultural land due to tree planting, and therefore agricultural production, will inevitably have an impact on the local economy, both directly and indirectly. To quantify this impact it is necessary to establish the proportion of the local production that would be lost following the removal of any area planted with woodland.

Comparison with the parishes containing Curlusk and Broadfield (Boharm and Keith) and those surrounding the mart at Huntly, the main local centre for the sale of livestock, is shown below. The data was supplied by the Scottish Government Rural Payments & Inspections Division to allow the comparisons to be undertaken.

Map 14: Curlusk and Broadfield area in the surrounding region.

Utilised Total agricultural Arable crops(1) agricultural land(2) land

Holdings Hectares Holdings Hectares Holdings Hectares Cairnie 39 1463 78 2706 82 3087

Drumblade 42 2762 57 3203 57 3352 Forgue 78 4854 109 5597 110 6029

Gartly 29 1995 46 3062 48 3262

Glass 17 1124 31 2731 33 3441

Huntly 33 1552 57 3151 60 3529

Rothiemay 43 2391 78 3322 80 3958 Keith 94 4,626 141 6,153 143 6,445

Boharm 47 2,116 68 2,931 70 3,588

(1) Includes crops, fallow land and grass under five years old (2) Includes arable land, grass over five years old and rough grazing

When compared to the figures for the various agricultural production categories outlined in the table above the 180ha of potential agriculture land at Broadfield and Curlusk is equivalent to 0.49%.

Having assessed these results it is clear that even if this entire agricultural holding were to be removed from agricultural production there would be no significant impact on the critical mass of the local agricultural industry. In summary there would still be sufficient capacity locally to sustain the ongoing success of agriculture in the area and additionally the downstream dependent industries in the area.

Broadfield background

Broadfield was at its agricultural production peak approximately 15 years ago when it sustained a herd of 135 cows. The stocking level has since been reduced and currently supports a herd of 30-40 cows with animals bought in to fatten. The cattle formed the basis of the management of the farm where the extensive grazing regime met a number of environmental objectives. All silage and barley grown on the farm has been used as feed for the cattle. Agri-environmental payments have been essential to the financial sustainability of the unit. Access to these subsidies is available to the current farmer due to a long track record in these schemes. Approximately 25% of the agri- environment payments are related to the grazing regime of the open fields, remainder is for hedges, field margin management, beetle banks and scrub areas for farmland birds. A new entrant to the farm unit would not be able to access the same level of support as they would be unable to secure the adequate number of points under the new scoring system as there are no designated sites on the farm. While it is unclear whether the unit could be financially sustainable without the current levels of subsidy it remains that there are some areas of reasonable quality arable land; the flat field of approximately 30 acres in size immediately adjacent to the house and agricultural buildings consistently produces reasonable crops of barley.

A report was prepared by the woodland expansion advisory group following a site visit in February 2013 (see Appendix 2). The report recommended the creation of a smallholding unit to comprise of the house, the agricultural buildings and approx 30 of land to the north of the farmstead. This allows the retention of an element of agricultural management of the land, with the remainder of the site being suitable for woodland creation.

It should be noted that the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group considered that while the original unit had both a house and buildings it was not a good candidate for a starter farm due to:

 the relatively small size of the unit;  the lack of suitable farm buildings;  and the poor quality of the land.

Despite this it may have been of interest to someone with a niche farming related interest.

The overall recommendation was for Forest Enterprise to proceed with the use of Broadfield Farm for woodland expansion on the basis that this is deemed to be the most suitable use of the land and will result in the greatest benefits to the wider landscape. Due consideration should be taken of neighbours and previous environmental management objectives in the development of the land management plan. The recommended to create a separate smallholding unit comprising the house, agricultural buildings and the ~30acre field to the north of the farmstead is being implemented with the small holding currently on the market. Therefore this area has been removed from the scope of this land management plan.

Curlusk background

Curlusk is situated almost entirely within the FCS managed Rosarie and Greenhills forest. It is situated between 150m and 290m and largely north facing. The majority of the land is classified as Class 4 by the James Hutton Institute, (formerly known as the Macaulay Institute for Soil Research), and extends to some 57.1 hectares of permanent grassland used for grazing with a small area of woodland. The land has been grassland for most of the past, although some of the fields have been cropped for oats or cut for silage. Up to 100 ewes and their progeny have been kept on the land with some also being let for cattle grazing. Historically the land has qualified for aid to farmers in less favoured areas (LFA), and it is unlikely that financial sustainability would be possible without a high level of subsidy.

Originally the purchase included the property and outbuildings located in the centre of the area. These have been sold as they were deemed unsuitable for a starter farm as:

 the area is too small;  the resident value of the house was too high in relation to the agriculture value of the unit;  the farm buildings required a large investment to update them for livestock keeping;  the agricultural productivity of the land was poor and in need of extensive remedial drainage works;

 the unit is poorly situated to support an alternative enterprise such as agriculture contracting which is a common means for small farmers to augment their incomes.

2.5 Landscape and land use

2.5.1 Landscape character and value

Map 7: Curlusk and Broadfield topography.

According to the Moray and Nairn landscape character assessment (LCA) carried out by SNH, Curlusk and Broadfield lie within an area categorised as Upland Farmland. This is a large area of land lying to the east of the Spey. The landform comprises broad, gently undulating slopes cut by gently graded valleys and punctuated by distinctive conical hills.

This area has a low percentage of woodland cover. The woodlands are less integrated within the farmland, forming large scale coniferous plantations of uniform colour and height to the western edge of the character area on the fringes of the Spey valley. Smaller scale geometrically shaped young coniferous plantations are also prominent on higher hill slopes, forming an abrupt edge to semi improved pastures and moorland. The few areas of native woodland that exist tend to be small isolated pockets associated with individual farmsteads.

The recommendations are that there is a strategy for felling and restocking woodlands that is at an appropriate scale and form, which reduces the existing harshness of plantation when compared to the gently undulating landform. Where there are geometric issues they should be ameliorated by selective felling, extensions of the planted area and the grading of the margins.

Both Curlusk and Broadfield are located within a large scale landscape with a simple vegetation pattern and mainly rural population. It is a landscape where visual diversity is somewhat limited. Some forms of landscape change would offer opportunities for enhancement. Although it would be important to conserve the positive features of the existing landscape such as the extensive views and general open character.

In relation to new woodland planting the landscape character assessment offers the following: “The establishment of sensitively designed new mixed species woodlands would provide opportunities for enhancing the landscape by introducing visual diversity and creating a strong enclosure pattern to visually contain and shelter farmland…. The scale of new woodlands needs to be carefully considered in relationship to their proposed location, particularly in view of the size of landholdings, as does the overall desired balance of open space to planting.”

It is considered that woodland creation on both Curlusk and Broadfield would improve the overall landscape by increasing the diversity of tree species and age structure thus diversifying both landscape texture and colour. It would soften the edges of existing woodlands and connect the upper and lower woodlands and shelter belts. At a local scale due consideration will be given to the lines of site and shading of neighbouring properties, the road and railway line.

2.5.2 Neighbouring land use The aerial photograph below shows how Curlusk and Broadfield are surrounded by a mix of agriculture and woodland. The river Isla runs to the east of Broadfield. This is a tributary of the Deveron. The Hill of Towie wind farm is located to the south of Curlusk on the higher ground. The Glentauchers distillery is downstream, to the north east, of Curlusk.

2.6 Social factors

2.6.1 Recreation

The River Isla which meanders to the east of Broadfield is an important fishing river especially as it is one of the main tributaries of the Deveron. It is one of the most important salmon fishing rivers in Scotland. Along the river runs the Isla Way.

“The Isla way is a 13 miles long interesting whisky-rich route between the towns of Keith and Dufftown. There are no less than four distilleries in and around the starting point of Keith, including the oldest working distillery in the Highlands, Strathisla, which was founded in 1786. The well signed Isla Way begins at Reidhaven Square by an old clock tower. The Way leads on quiet roads initially to reach Mill of Trovie, a 19th century water powered oatmeal mill. From there, it follows the busy B9014 for 1.5 miles (2.5km) before minor roads lead to Drummuir. An enjoyable and easy wooded section on a traffic-free path then takes you by the multi-turreted Victorian-era Drummuir Castle and Loch Park Adventure Centre, originally created as a rather grand beauty feature for the castle.”

The main focus for woodland recreation in this area of Moray and Aberdeenshire forest district is at Ordiequish and Whiteash forests. This area has a number of waymarked walks and mountain bike trails. Rosarie and Greenhills, which is located adjacent to both Curlusk and Broadfield, is not a priority for recreation although under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code it is open for informal recreation.

There are several houses on the boundary of Broadfield and shares its access route with a number of them. The B9014 runs alongside the site and there are views of parts of the site from the seasonal railway line used by tourist during the summer months.

2.6.2 Community

The surrounding area is largely made up of scattered homes and farms rather than specific villages, although there are some smaller villages in the area such as Mulben and Towiemore. The larger population centre of Keith is located a few miles to the east. Whereas Curlusk is located almost entirely within Rosarie forest, Broadfield is more important in regards to the local community due to its proximity to the B9014, the River Isla and the Islay way trail.

The community councils for this area are Strathisla, Drummuir and Botriphnie. Views from these community councils and other members of the local community have been sought during the preparation of the plan. Letters were written to all known neighbours, both contiguous and in the local vicinity, all known local interest groups and statutory consultees.

A diversity of opinion has been received during this process and these are all recorded in the consultation record in appendix 3. These have all been considered during the preparation of this plan.

The issues raised during the information gathering process will be taken into account and used to establish the objectives for the site in drawing up the land management proposals (see section 4).

2.6.3 Heritage

According to Historic Scotland’s records there are no historic environment assets of national importance within Curlusk or Broadfield. However, there are a number of non-scheduled monuments which are shown on the map below, and their significance will be taken into account as part of the planning process.

Map 14: Non-scheduled monuments on the site.

ID Feature number

1 Farmstead

2 Structure/Enclosure

3 Farmstead

4 Farmstead and enclosure

5 Farmstead and mill 6 Building 7 Farmstead and mill 8 Farmstead 9 Farmstead

10 Farmstead

11 Cairns 12 Idle bronze age spearhead find 13 Farmstead

3.0 Analysis and Concept

3.1 Analysis and concept table The information gathered in the previous section (2.0 - Background information) has been analysed for its relevance to the plan. This has informed the design concept plan which is based on the land management objectives (section 1.3).

The results of this process are presented in the table below. This has been set out against the national themes of the FES strategic directions document and the issues highlighted in the Moray & Aberdeenshire strategic plan.

Theme- Key District specific Analysis Proposed priority Commitments Action Action Healthy We will help the The District will The climate of Use the ESC (Medium) Estate adapt to continually the site is and its’ built in climate change make good use predicted to predicted and become of Ecological change in the future climate more resilient Site future. models to help to pressure. Classification to guide the closely fit selection of species to sites, species and take into suitable for account the planting. anticipated effects of climate change.

We will Localised Species continue to flooding is an appropriate to manage areas issue along the the wet to reduce the access road to conditions to risk of flooding Curlusk. Fields be planted in due to a are susceptible areas changing to flooding associated climate. along the Isla. with flooding.

Productive We intend to We will increase This plan area Plant manage at least our productive has been broadleaves a quarter of our broadleaf identified as and manage expanding resource by having them to secure broadleaf planting a potential to silviculture woodlands to further 700ha establishing improvement produce quality by 2019. productive and 29

hardwoods and Where broadleaves. commercial woodfuel. economically return. viable, we will actively manage our broadleaf resource to secure silvicultural improvement and commercial return.

We plan to We will ensure There is an A separate increase that any opportunity to agricultural agricultural use agricultural- create a unit at of the estate quality land smallholding Broadfield has where this is that is acquired unit at been created consistent with will be Broadfield. and marketed. environmental managed The remaining objectives. productively, area is pending land proposed for management woodland decisions, in expansion. accordance with Woodland Advisory Group protocols.

We will support Through Curlusk and Identify areas the Scottish appropriate Broadfield can where land can Government’s acquisitions, we contribute to be removed woodland will help deliver the Scottish from expansion Scottish Government’s agriculture and policy. Government woodland planted with woodland expansion trees that will expansion target of expand the targets in 10,000ha per woodland accordance with year. cover in the the Woodland area. Expansion Advisory Group report. Cared For We are The District will The habitat Maintain or committed to continue to surveys of enhance the maintaining the review all open Curlusk and ecological best open ground Broadfield condition of

30 habitats in good management identified some priority open ecological on a regular priority habitats. condition. basis to ensure habitats. it is appropriate.

4.0 Land Management Proposals

See Management map

4.1 Existing woodland

A survey of the existing vegetation types at Curlusk and Broadfield was undertaken in May 2012. This identified several areas of existing woodland. The three main woodland types are upland mixed ashwood, upland birchwood and wet woodland. These will be managed according to the appropriate practice guide for the management of that type of semi-natural woodland.

Natural woodlands are a vital part of our heritage. They provide a range of habitats which support a rich diversity of plants and animals. Many woodland species depend entirely for their survival on the continued existence of these habitats. Any management undertaken will maintain and enhance these values in harmony with securing other benefits, including wood production where appropriate. Management proposals are geared to sensitive low impact methods which are suited to the natural dynamics of these woodlands.

The aims of management of these woodland areas are:

 Maintain and wherever suitable restore the natural ecological diversity;  Maintain and where appropriate improve their aesthetic value;  Maintain the genetic integrity of populations of native species, so far as is practicable;  Take appropriate opportunities to produce utilisable wood;  Enlarge the woods where possible.

These aims lead to the following general principles for management:

 Maintain the semi-natural woodland type by growing species native to the site and appropriate to the pattern of soils. Existing abundant species should remain a significant component;  Improve diversity of structure by maintaining a range of age classes (from very young to biologically mature) rather than a single age class;  Increase diversity of species, where appropriate;  Maintain diversity of habitat by retaining a diverse structure and mixture of species with open areas, which are extremely important;  Maintain a mature habitat by retaining old, dead or dying trees both standing and fallen, and by increasing rotation lengths;

 Moderate rates of change as although woods are adapted to quite large natural disturbances, wildlife takes time to adjust;  Use low-key establishment techniques.

4.1.1 Upland birchwood These are normally found on the more acid infertile free-draining upland soils, over 250m elevation. Birch is normally the dominant species with rowan, holly, Scots pine, sessile oak, aspen, ash, alder, goat willow, wild cherry, bird cherry, hazel, juniper, hawthorn and blackthorn all potential associates depending on the fertility of the soil.

Upland birchwoods have great value for wildlife conservation. They provide habitat for most of the species of deciduous woodland which can tolerate the upland climate. Over 300 specialist insects are associated with birch.

Birch is used mainly for firewood because of the poor form of many birchwoods. However good quality birch timber is strong and versatile and can be sawn for general use. Straight birch stems make excellent turnery wood.

Birch is a short lived species and growth rates start to decline after about 60 to 80 years. As wood production is an important objective the rotation length for much of the woodland will be within this range with some areas allowed to mature, die and decay naturally.

Any thinning would be limited to the well-drained ground and extraction will be undertaken with sensitive small scale machinery. Limited ground disturbance from extraction would stimulate regeneration but compaction and rutting will be avoided.

As many woodland wildlife species depend on large, old trees, standing dead trees and large fallen trunks and limbs management will aim to maintain and increase the number of large, old trees and the quantity of fallen wood. Trees in difficult areas and on the margins will be retained indefinitely.

4.1.2 Wet woodland The practice guide for wet woodland covers both alder/ash woodland recorded as “upland ash woodland” and the willow dominated areas recorded as “wet woodland”.

These woodlands are typical of the wet and poorly-drained soils across much of Britain. These woodlands are typical of river valleys, the surrounding of mires and raised bogs, the transition zones between open water and drier ground or, as in the case at Curlusk and Broadfield, on flushed slopes well above the valley bottom. 33

The willow dominated woods are often scrubby in appearance with irregular, dense canopies that often include birch and alder or more rarely oak, hawthorn, hazel and gelder rose. Ground conditions are very wet and the ground flora includes many species more characteristic of fens and marshes.

The alder/ash woodland is more typical of drier sites and often includes Downy birch, pedunculate oak and hawthorn.

Wet woodlands contribute an element of diversity to both wooded and open landscapes. Wet woodlands provide cover for birds and support a rich assemblage of moths and insects. Their potential for timber production is low in the willow dominated areas with limited production of firewood. However alder and ash both have markets as firewood with ash also having potentially a higher value if stem canker is not a problem.

The willow dominated areas recorded as wet woodland at Curlusk and Broadfield will be retained as natural reserves. The main reason for this is that the ground conditions are so wet that any attempt to fell and extract produce will cause extensive amounts of ground damage that are unacceptable in this situation.

The drier area recorded as upland ash woodlands will be managed for firewood production. A coppice system will be used with a rotation length of 20 – 25 years across most of the area. Stools will be cut high enough to leave plenty of live wood in order to ensure successful regrowth. The remaining areas will be cut on a 10 – 20 year rotation. This will provide saleable firewood while permitting enough light penetration to maintain ground flora and encourage butterflies into the area.

All timber extraction will be undertaken with extreme care to ensure unacceptable levels of ground damage are not caused.

The basic aim to secure the long term survival of the woodland by coppice regrowth will require the control of browsing and grazing by sheep, cattle or deer. This will be achieved by stock fencing the woodland and controlling the deer numbers by undertaking an ongoing cull to maintain numbers at a sustainable level to allow regrowth.

4.2 New woodland

4.2.1 Riparian woodland

Groups of trees will be planted along watercourses to create dappled shade.

Riparian woodland can be used to stabilise river and stream banks and help prevent pollution from reaching watercourses, as well as improve water quality and fresh water habitats. Riparian woodland can also contribute to flood plain management.

The riparian woodland planned at Curlusk and Broadfield will extend at least 25m from the edge of the watercourse. Its width will vary and have an organic shape which will create a more natural appearance and also increase the length of its edge habitat, which is good for wildlife.

The species will need to be flood tolerant so will be a mix of alder, willow, ash, downy birch, hazel and aspen. Open or partially wooded conditions along the watercourses are important. Half the length of the watercourse will be left open to sunlight with the remainder in dappled shade. To achieve this only 50% of the total area will be planted with trees. Existing wetland habitats, species rich flushes, sedges and other wetland vegetation are important habitats so will be retained within the framework of new woodland.

4.2.2 Broadleaved woodland

Broadleaf species will be planted at a density that will provide the best opportunity for them to be managed to be productive on the better quality soils. The woodland areas will be planted with a shape to fit with the landscape.

The species planted will be broadleaves with the best potential to produce usable timber or firewood such as oak. The planting will be undertaken with an average stocking density of 5,000 stems per hectare. This planting spacing will ensure that the woods can be managed to be productive in the future.

4.2.3 Mixed broadleaved and conifer woodland

These woodland areas will be planted with an organic shape to fit with the landscape but also create a generous length of “edge” habitat. The new woodland will link other habitats such as existing woodland, new broadleaf woodland, watercourses and valuable open habitats.

The species planted will be a mix of locally native broadleaves, such as silver birch, along with conifers that will provide a future supply of quality timber. The planting will be undertaken in robust single species groups of 16 (4x4) to 25 (5x5) plants at a spacing of 1.5m x 1.5m to give an average stocking density of approx 5,000 stems per hectare. This planting spacing will ensure that the woods can be managed to be productive in the future.

4.3 Open ground

The priorities for open ground are to retain those areas with a high habitat value and keep open areas around neighbouring properties to prevent a loss of their views and creating excessive shading.

Appendix 1 – The national and local context of Curlusk and Broadfield.

National context

Curlusk and Broadfield were purchased to support the objectives of the Scottish Government as set out in “The role of Scotland’s National Forest Estate and strategic directions 2013-2016”. This document describes the role of and strategic directions for Scotland’s National Forest Estate (NFE).

The NFE is one of the biggest opportunities for the Scottish Government to directly implement the principals laid out in its Land Use Strategy. The Land Use Strategy aims to deliver multiple benefits from Scotland’s countryside. Curlusk and Broadfield, as part of the NFE, provides an opportunity to implement the Scottish Government’s climate change commitments by harnessing the ability of trees to sequester carbon. It can provide additional environmental services including contributing to flood mitigation and ensuring the NFE, and its biodiversity, is robust and able to adapt to future climate change.

Within this context the role of the NFE can be described in terms of the services it has the potential to provide:

• Supporting services such as primary production, nutrient dispersal and cycling; • Provisioning services such as timber, food (farmed and wild), water, minerals, energy (hydropower, wind energy and biomass fuels); • Regulating services such as carbon sequestration and climate regulation, flood management, purification of water and air, detoxification of contaminated sites and biological reservoirs for crop pollination and pest and disease control; • Cultural services around recreational experiences, cultural, intellectual and spiritual inspiration and scientific advancement.

The role of Scotland’s National Forest Estate and strategic directions 2013-2016 http://www.forestry.gov.uk/fesplans Getting the best from our land – A land use strategy for Scotland - http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/Countryside/Landusestrategy

The Rationale for Woodland Expansion lays out the Scottish Government’s thinking on how woodland expansion can best increase the delivery of public benefits from Scotland’s land. The document identifies a number of woodland creation priorities for Scotland:

 Helping to tackle greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon sequestration, timber and fuel production.  Restoring lost habitats and adapting to climate change. Forest habitat networks and new native woodlands.  Helping to manage ecosystem services. Sustainable flood management and protection of soil and water resources.  Underpinning a sustainable forest products industry. Consistent and reliable timber supply for timber processing and wood fuel investments.  Supporting rural development. Supporting local businesses and farm diversification.  Providing community benefits. Provision of welcoming and well- managed woodlands in and around communities and where health and community need is greatest.  Enhancing urban areas and improving landscapes. Improving derelict, underused and neglected land, improving degraded or unsightly environments and diversifying farmed landscapes.

The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 places a specific duty on all public bodies to further the conservation of biodiversity and to have regard to the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy. That strategy, published in 2004, aims to achieve by 2030 a landscape where, amongst other things: "Organisms can move, feed, reproduce and disperse effectively, and are better able to adapt to changing circumstances of land use and climate change".

Habitat networks are one of the main ways identified to achieve this. Habitat networks are patches of habitat that are physically or functionally connected, so that dependent species are able to move and/or disperse between patches to create interlinked populations. The development of networks should increase the resilience of species populations to threats, which is especially important for species which are slow colonisers and/or those living in small fragmented populations.

 The Scottish Government's Rationale for Woodland Expansion - http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-7FWEQ5  Scottish Biodiversity Strategy -http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2004/05/19366/37239

Networks should help wildlife adapt to climate change, both by encouraging more robust populations that can survive change in situ, and by making it easier for species to colonise new areas if current sites become unsuitable. The predicted pace of climate change means that networks will need to be developed and functioning over the next few decades to relieve the growing pressures on our wildlife.

As there are no specific national policies for agriculture in Scotland it is difficult to link the management of the agricultural elements at Curlusk and Broadfield to an overarching national strategy. However the background to the industry is that livestock numbers have been dropping since 2005. This is as a direct result of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). With CAP currently under review it is not possible to know what impact this could have on the future for the agricultural industry in Scotland.

Local context

The strategic directions document for the NFE was published in 2013 and lays out in broad terms the story of, nature of, and vision for the NFE. District strategic plans are the next level down in the planning framework. These set out at the district level how different parts of the local NFE will contribute to the national picture. The new Strategic Plan for Moray & Aberdeenshire District has recently completed public consultation.

The Strategic Plan for Moray & Aberdeenshire will drive our Land Management Plans (LMP) and integrate varied land management priorities to maximise public benefit, and optimise ecosystem service provision. Ecosystem services include such varied objectives as conserving vulnerable species, to maintaining a supply of timber and biomass, and providing the largest area for recreational provision in Scotland.

SEPA has designated the river Deveron a priority catchment. “Priority catchments are river and costal catchments that are currently failing to meet water quality standards, and which will not achieve improved water quality without a focused management approach. The River Deveron catchment has several designations relating to the importance of its waters which, coupled with a range of diffuse pollution effects, make restoring and protecting it a high priority.

 Moray & Aberdeenshire Forest District Strategic Plan (Public consultation) - http://www.forestry.gov.uk/fesplans  River Deveron Catchment - http://www.sepa.org.uk/water/river_basin_planning/dp_priority_catchments/river_deveron_catch ment.aspx

The main pressures in the catchment include: agricultural pollution, sewage treatment works discharges, septic tanks, morphology and abstraction.” The SEPA publication Diffuse Pollution Priority Catchment: Technical Summary – River Deveron1 is available from the SEPA website and contains more details of the issues and how the issues are being addressed. As Curlusk and Broadfield are located on the banks of the Isla which is one of the main tributaries of the Deveron so has a part to play in the improvement of the catchment.

SNH, in partnership with local authorities and other agencies have carried out a National Programme of Landscape Character Assessment. This programme aims to improve knowledge and understanding of the contribution that landscape makes to the natural heritage of Scotland. It considers the likely pressures and opportunities for change in the landscape, assesses the sensitivity of the landscape to change and includes guidelines indicating how landscape character may be conserved, enhanced or restructured as appropriate.

Aberdeenshire Council has a Forest and Woodland Strategy

The key aim of the strategy is:

To ensure the sustainable management of the woodlands and forests of Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City, creating a balanced landscape where woodlands and forests, add to people’s quality of life and wellbeing, contribute to the local economy, provide opportunities for recreation and tourism and protect and enhance biodiversity and the environment. This means:  encouraging multi-benefit forestry in new planting and through re- structuring  balancing forestry against other land uses  protecting sensitive areas; and  identifying priority areas for expansion of a variety of forest and woodland types

 Forest and Woodland Strategy for Aberdeenshire & Aberdeen City - http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/natural/trees/forest_strategy05.pdf

The section on creating new woods and forests states that:

Identifying priority areas where woodland expansion might be targeted is a key role of this Strategy. Looking at the whole forest resource in the North East, it should be possible to achieve benefits to landscape, habitat and recreation whilst producing commercial timber. Whilst expecting a range of proposals for new planting to come forward, specific types of new planting are encouraged by this Strategy to work towards the aims identified. Although woodland is an important feature of the North East, the total area of woodland (14%) is low compared with many of our European neighbours where woodland cover is often greater than 30%.

Moray Council has recently withdrawn its forestry strategy due to its age and it has no plans to replace it in the short term.

Feedback from stakeholders and the local community has been sought via written correspondence.

Letters were written to all known neighbours, both contiguous and in the local vicinity, all known local interest groups and statutory consultees. The results of the feedback received are presented in appendix 3.

Appendix 2 – Report form the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group

Forest Enterprise Scotland: Reference Group for Aberdeenshire and Moray

Site : Report: Broadfield Farm.

Date of Visit: 20th February 2013

Reference Group Members:

Amanda Bryan (Chair) John Gordon (Local Agricultural Representative) Henry Graham (Agriculture Benchmarking Representative) Ian Thomas (Forestry Benchmarking Representative) In Attendance (Field Visit): John Thomson (Forest District Manager) Ian Michie (FES Tenant and Previous Owner)

Site Description:

Broadfield Farm comprises 143Ha of grazing and arable land with extensive areas being managed under agri‐environment measures. The farm located just to the East of the B9014 south of Keith. The farm has a complex boundary approximately half of which adjoins NFE land. The house and farm buildings which are in generally good order are located close to the north‐ eastern boundary of the site. The farm has only recently been purchased by FES and the previous owner has agreed to lease the farm and house until the end of 2013 and intends to continue working the unit.

Response to Questions:

1. How suitable is the site for integrating farming and forestry land uses? The site does have limited potential for integrating farming and forestry. While much of land is currently managed for environmental priorities and is of poorer quality overall (land class 4.2) much of it has been improved and managed to produce rotations of barley, silage and grass to support a cattle herd of 135 at maximum stocking. The area of land suitable for productive agriculture is around 40Ha (25% of overall farm). This level of productivity has been maintained through regular input of lime to deal with acidic soils. During the site visit it was noted that drainage is an issue across the site some of which is in need of attention.

2. What does the site currently (or in recent times, prior to sale) contribute to farming and the associated rural economy in general terms? The farm was at its agricultural production peak approximately 15 years ago (135 cows) but since then the stock has been managed downwards and currently supports a herd of 30‐40 cows plus purchased animals to fatten.. The cattle form the basis of the management of the farm and the extensive grazing regime meets environmental objectives. All silage and barley grown on the farm is used as feedstock for the cattle. Agri‐environment payments have been key to the financial sustainability of the unit with access to these subsidies only available to the current farmer due to a long track record in these schemes (Note approx. 25% of agri‐environment

42 payments are related to grazing of open fields, remainder for hedges, field margin management, beetle banks, scrub areas for farmland birds etc.). No new entrant would be able to access the same level of support as they would be unable to secure the adequate number of ‘points’ under the new scoring system as there are no designated sites on the farm. While it is unclear whether the unit could be financially sustainable without current levels of subsidy it remains that there are some areas of reasonable quality arable land; the flat field of approximately 30 acres in size immediately adjacent to the house and agricultural buildings consistently produces reasonable crops of barley.

3. Is there clear unrealised agricultural potential for the site? Are the farm buildings necessary to achieve this potential? As indicated above what agricultural potential is there has been realised but the farm is marginal in terms of financial sustainability without a high level of subsidy. Having said that there is still some land with agricultural potential for managing as an agricultural unit especially the flat field of approx 30 acres to the north of the site. This land could be used for horses or a small pedigree stock business which would require both land and existing farm buildings. Alternatively the field and or buildings could be leased to a neighbouring farm for ongoing agricultural use. This latter option would require some careful management due to the close proximity of the agricultural buildings to the house.

4. What are the key opportunities to demonstrate integration between woodland creation and agricultural activity on the site? The opportunities to integrate woodland creation and agricultural activity on the site are limited but as noted above there may be an opportunity to create a separate smallholding comprising one field of approximately 30 acres, the farm house and agricultural buildings thus retaining an element of agricultural management of the best quality land while the remainder of the site is subject to woodland creation. In terms of planting the remainder of the site it needs to be noted that there has been a long history of managing the land for environmental benefit and therefore it would be desirable to maintain these benefits that have accrued where appropriate this can be integrated with forest management – hedges, beetle banks, wetland, riparian woodland, scrub etc.

5. What other consideration, constraints and synergies should be taken into account? The use of the neighbouring land and other contextual factors are likely to be relevant. Landscape: The site has a considerable number of houses on its boundary and along its access route. The B9014 runs alongside the site and there are views of parts of the site from the seasonal railway line used by tourist and enthusiasts during the summer months. It is generally considered that woodland creation on the site would actually improve the overall landscape through improving the diversity of age structure and species of trees (improvements to texture and colour), softening edges and connecting the upper and lower woodlands and existing shelter belts. However at a local scale due consideration will have to be given to the lines of site from the neighbouring houses, road and railway line. Broadfield Farm falls under the landscape character type Upland Farmland within the Landscape Character Assessment for Moray this notes that “Although woodlands exist, these cover a smaller proportion of land than the Rolling Farmland and Forest Character Area, and are less integrated within the farmland, forming large scale coniferous plantations of uniform colour and height to the western edges of the character area on the fringes of the Spey Valley.” The LCA notes that “This is a large scale landscape with a simple vegetation pattern and mainly rural population. It is a landscape where visual diversity is somewhat limited and some forms of landscape change could offer opportunities for enhancement, although it would be important to conserve the positive

43 features of the landscape such as the extensive views and general open character....” In relation to new woodland planting the LCA offers the following: “The establishment of sensitively designed new mixed species woodlands would provide opportunities for enhancing the landscape by enhancing the landscape by introducing visual diversity and creating a strong enclosure pattern to visually contain and shelter farmland.....The scale of new woodlands needs to be carefully considered in relationship to their proposed location, particularly in view of the size of landholdings, as does the overall desired balance of open space to planting.” Appropriate planting of the farm would comply with this guidance.

Access: Timber could be extracted from the site through a short extension of the forest track within the existing NFE on the western boundary of the site. This will enable access for timber transport directly on to the A95 and will avoid disruption to immediate neighbours and use of the B9014. In the short term this will also enable the existing shelter belts which are approaching maturity to be harvested along this route.

Watercourses: There is a lot of surface water on site and there are numerous streams and watercourses on the site and without stock on land this will improve water quality. There are also opportunities to improve riparian planting. The fields immediately adjacent to the River Isla and the railway have flooded in the past. Many of these areas may have been managed under agri‐environment schemes and this management could be continued within a woodland matrix to provide landscape and ecological benefits.

Water Supply: The house and farm are currently fed by springs on site however the mains supply is available and this should be reconnected to the house before sale.

Community: The site is not considered to have specific community interests due to its location and limited access by foot.

Starter Farm Potential: While the farm has both a house and buildings it is not considered a good option due to the size of the unit being relatively small already, the lack of suitable farm buildings and the poor quality of the land. However as indicated it may be of interest to someone with a niche farming related interest.

Archaeology and Environment: There are no significant factors related to natural or cultural heritage on the site which will affect land use although there is scope to ensure ongoing management of features that have been developed and maintained under agri‐environment measures, although field scale options such as retained winter stubbles wouldn’t be appropriate to a woodland context.

6. What type of forestry or farming would be most suitable for this site? The site lends itself to predominantly commercial forestry with mixed conifers over much of the site on the upper slopes leading to mixed broadleaves in riparian and wet areas. There may be scope for some natural regeneration in certain areas. New woodland creation will help to tidy up existing boundaries and to rationalise fence lines. Where appropriate hedges, scrub for woodland birds and other existing environmental management measures should be incorporated into design plans.

From a farming sector perspective the most important issue is to retain the most productive land in agricultural use and this could be achieved through the creation of a small standalone unit for horses or a small pedigree stock unit. Alternatively post sale the land and buildings could subsequently be leased to a neighbouring farmer for arable production.

7. Is it likely that sale of any of the houses or buildings could have a significant negative impact on realistic opportunities that may arise during subsequent consultation? While the majority of the site is marginal it is important to retain the area that is considered most productive in agricultural use, along with the farm buildings which are in reasonable quality (except for the stone built mill which has a dangerous gable end and needs to be dismantled). Due to the proximity of the field in question and the agricultural sheds to the farm house the most logical solution and one which would likely attract a reasonable interest is to offer for sale the house, buildings and 30 acre field as a single unit.

Recommendation

The Reference Group for Aberdeen-shire and Moray recommend that FES proceed with the use of Broadfield Farm for woodland expansion on the basis that this is deemed to be the most suitable use of the land and will result in benefits to the wider landscape. Due consideration should be taken of neighbours and previous environmental management objectives in the development of the design plan. However it is further recommended that at an appropriate time to suit FES and the current tenant a separate smallholding unit could be created comprising the house, agricultural buildings and the ~30 acre field to the north of the farmstead, could be created and sold on. Before this sale could proceed the old stone mill building should be dismantled or made safe.

Appendix 3 – Consultation record

Date Statutory Consultee Date contacted response Issue raised Forest District Response received

SNH 23 Oct 2014 29 Oct 2014 We are not aware of any priority bird species The management proposed for the By email By email that would be affected by the planting of trees site still includes open spaces with in this area. potentially available for wading bird needs. However, the site could have an interest for wading bird species.

RSPB 23 Oct 2014 28 Nov 2014 We are not aware of any priority bird species The woodland proposed for the site By email By email that would be affected by the planting of trees includes both open space and native in this area. broadleaves.

The introduction of productive forestry should be sensitively designed to include open space and where possible include native broadleaf and conifer species to increase biodiversity benefits.

SEPA 28 Oct 2014 25 Nov 2014 Standard template reply received. No specific UK forestry standards for water will By post By email recommendations for these sites. be followed during the planning process and all operations.

Crown Estate 21 Oct 2014 No reply to date By post Delfur Estate 21 Oct 2014 No reply to date By post Drummuir and Botriphnie Community 21 Oct 2014 No reply to date Trust By post

Drummuir 21 21 Oct 2014 No reply to date By post Drummuir estate 21 Oct 2014 No reply to date By post

Member of public 21 Oct 2014 4 Nov 2014 Thanks for the briefing pack on the above The woodland area proposed for By e-mail planting. planted at Curlusk and Broadfield is In principle I will always tend to object to small and will have a negligible proposals to plant productive farmland with impact on the local agricultural trees. ecoomy. My reasoning is that it limits new entrants to farming and will also contribute to the shortage of food stocks. For the avoidance of doubt this email should be considered as an objection. Glentauchers Distillery 21 Oct 2014 No reply to date By post Historic Scotland 10 Nov 2014 Thank you for your consultation dated 21 By post October which we received on 27 October. I have checked our records and can confirm that there are no historic environment assets of national importance within the proposed forest area of Curlusk and Broadfield or the existing Rosarie and Greenhills forest. Historic Scotland has therefore no locus in the determination of this proposal. Moray Council 23 Oct 2014 No reply to date By e-mail Moray Equestrian Access Group 23 Oct 2014 No reply to date By post NFUS 23 Oct 2014 No reply to date By post

Neighbour 30 Oct 2014 28 Nov 2014 Is the Forestry Commission not operating a We have considered the possibility of By Mail ‘starter farm’ system where younger farmers establishing a starter farm at both gain an opportunity to get experience of Curlusk and Broadfield and our running a farm? If the decision is made to plant reasons for dismissing this idea are in the Broadfield, we hope the impact of set out in section 2.4 – Current land planting on this land is fully considerer. We use. presently have a pond located on our land, which receives its water from the three All the water issues have been taken streams running off from Broadfield land. We into account in the preparation of the believe this pond has been located on the land plan. The UK forestry standards for at Wester Chalder since the land was occupied water management will be followed as a Mill. We hope the planting of the trees at all stages of the process. would not have a detrimental effect on the watercourse coming off the land at Broadfield. The well has been located on Broadfield land for many years. It was agreed with previous landowners that the locating the well on the land was acceptable. We hope the planting on the land will not have an impact on the water supply into the well. Neighbour Oct 2014 23 Nov 2014 Thank you for the detailed plans and We have considered the quality of explanation as to what you intend to do with the landscape around the the land acquired at Broadfield farm. neighbouring properties, their views The field opposite allows us to view deer, hare and the shading issue. Open ground and sometimes otters from the property. and shrub planting will be used to If the field is to be planted with trees this will successfully address the issues destroy our wonderful views and make our raised. property very dark. Neighbour Oct 2014 by e- 30 Nov 2014 My main concern is how the proposed planting See response above. mail will affect the views from my house and subsequently the value of my property. The main area I have an issue with is the field across the river Isla from my house (marked "A" on the picture below), over time trees planted in this area will totally obstruct the beautiful view we have of the valley and of the Keith to Dufftown railway.

Neighbour 23 Oct 2014 28 Nov 2014 We have objections to the planting of trees See response above. By post directly across from our house and we have reasons and concerns as below. We have A buffer zone along the access road planned our house location when building to will be retained as open ground to incorporate all light possible for our home and prevent the planted trees becoming this would be greatly reduced. We also located a hazard to traffic. our solar panels facing south for maximum sunshine throughout the whole day and this would also be greatly affected and therefore affect the EPC report for our home and it's valuation. The trees would also affect the wildlife we see every day in this area, pine martens, badgers, foxes, bats and deer. We also will not be happy with the fungus or algae, the green deposits that come from the trees and onto our house. When entering our road from the main B road you have clear visibility looking across to our house and a clear view of any oncoming traffic. This is also the same if coming the opposite direction you can see the junction and any traffic coming towards our house. However, if trees are to be planted in the proposed site this would lead to no visibility at all and with the road having no passing places makes this a big hazard. Neighbour 30 Oct 2014 By 8 Nov 2014 How close will you plant from our property? As described above open space and phone Is there a chance to restore lost habitats? shrub planting will be used around Will Sitka Spruce forest be planted at neighbouring properties to alleviate Broadfield? any issues. The survey undertaken by an ecologist highlighted all habitats of biological importance. These are all being retained and improved if appropriate, both woodland and open habitats. A proportion Broadfield is planned to be planted with conifers. However the opportunity will be taken to diversify the conifer species in the area so Sitka spruce will not be used as part of the planting mix.

Appendix 4 – Summary report on the vegetation of Curlusk and Broadfield

SUMMARY REPORT ON THE VEGETATION OF

CURLUSK

MORAYSHIRE, SEPTEMBER 2012

Ben Averis

6 Stonelaws Cottages, East Linton, East Lothian, EH40 3DX. Tel: 01620 870280. Email: [email protected]

November 2012

A survey commissioned by Forest Enterprise Scotland

INTRODUCTION

In this survey, commissioned by Forest Enterprise Scotland (FES) and carried out on 7th September 2012, the vegetation of Curlusk Farm, 6 km W-WSW of Keith, Morayshire, was mapped at the scale of 1:10,000 using the FES UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) classification. The approximate centre of the site is at Ordnance Survey grid reference NJ 365 490. The site has an area of about 50 hectares and an altitudinal range of 150-297 m. Most of the site consists of fields of improved grassland, semi-improved and unimproved acid grassland, and rush pasture. There are also smaller areas of coarse neutral grassland and short, damp to wet neutral grassland, and a small valley with native broadleaved woodland.

Most of the site is on gentle to moderate slopes facing north-east and (more locally, in the north of the site) east. The abandoned buildings of Curlusk farm are in the middle of the site.

The fieldwork took about 3 hours to complete. Physical access around the site was generally easy. The weather was mild and cloudy. Each mapped vegetation unit (polygon) was given a code number which is labelled on the 1:10,000 map. An aerial photograph provided by FES was used to help define vegetation boundaries. The FES UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) classification data for each polygon were entered onto a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The appropriate National Vegetation Classification (NVC) communities were recorded and included in the spreadsheet.

This brief report provides a summary account of the vegetation and botanical interest of the surveyed area. The 1:10,000 map and the habitat data spreadsheet are provided separately but the map and the table of habitat codes (for each polygon) are also copied into this report for convenience (see Map 1 and Table 1 at end of report).

BRIEF SITE DESCRIPTION This site consists mainly of a series of fields on gentle to moderate NE-E-facing slopes. The vegetation of these fields is mostly improved grassland (NVC MG6), semi-improved acid grassland (U4b), unimproved acid grassland (U4a and U5), and rush pasture (MG10a and M23a). There are also smaller areas of coarse Deschampsia cespitosa neutral grassland (MG9) and short, damp to wet Agrostis-Alopecurus neutral grassland (MG13). The rushy vegetation is most extensive in the central part of the site. A small valley running SW-NE through the fields in the NE half of the site has native broadleaved woodland (W11 and a little wetter W7), and small open areas of bracken (U20 and W25) and (very small areas) coarse grassland (MG9), acid grassland (U4b) and rush mire (M23a). At the time of survey the fields were grazed by cattle.

The abandoned buildings of Curlusk farm are in the middle of the site, surrounded by fields.

DESCRIPTIONS OF HABITAT TYPES

These are described below under headings corresponding to NVC communities except for two habitats which could not be classified meaningfully using the NVC.

W7a-b Alnus glutinosa-Fraxinus excelsior-Lysimachia nemorum woodland, intermediate between W7a Urtica dioica sub-community and W7b Carex remota- Cirsium palustre sub-community (belongs within UK BAP Priority habitat ‘Wet woodland’): woodland of downy birch and eared willow, with a ground flora including Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, Lysimachia nemorum, Ranunculus repens, Urtica dioica and Rumex acetosa; forms small patches on lower slopes (near stream) in wooded valley in NE of site.

W7c Alnus glutinosa-Fraxinus excelsior-Lysimachia nemorum woodland, Deschampsia cespitosa sub-community (belongs within UK BAP Priority habitat ‘Upland mixed ashwood’): woodland of ash, cherry, rowan, hazel, downy birch and eared willow, with

51 ground vegetation with abundant to dominant Deschampsia cespitosa mixed with other species including Ajuga reptans, Geranium robertianum and the moss Plagiomnium undulatum; occupies small areas on damp slopes within the wooded valley in the NE of the site.

W11 Quercus petraea-Betula pubescens-Oxalis acetosella woodland (belongs within UK BAP Priority habitat ‘Upland birchwood’): woodland of downy birch, rowan, hazel and some ash, cherry, eared willow, larch and spruce, with grassy swards of Holcus mollis, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Deschampsia flexuosa, D. cespitosa and Dactylis glomerata, mixed with Rubus idaeus, the ferns Pteridium aquilinum, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas and Blechnum spicant, the herbs Oxalis acetosella, Viola riviniana, Primula vulgaris, Lathyrus linifolius, Digitalis purpurea and Stellaria holostea, and mosses including Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Hylocomium splendens and Thuidium tamariscinum; on well- drained slopes in valley running SW-NE in NE half of site.

W25 Pteridium aquilinum-Rubus fruticosus agg. underscrub (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘bracken’): bracken-dominated vegetation with an associated flora including Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium arvense and C. vulgare; small areas on well-drained sloping ground in glades among woodland in valley in NE.

M23a Juncus effusus/acutiflorus-Galium palustre rush-pasture, Juncus acutiflorus sub-community (belongs within UK BAP Priority habitat ‘Purple moorgrass & rush pasture’): rush mire with tall (30-50 cm) swards of Juncus acutiflorus accompanied by some J. effusus, the sedge Carex flacca, the grasses Anthoxanthum odoratum and Deschampsia cespitosa, herbs including Ranunculus acris, Succisa pratensis, Angelica sylvestris, Cirsium palustre, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Viola palustris, Rumex acetosa, Senecio aquaticus, Pedicularis palustris, Trifolium repens, Epilobium palustre, Cardamine pratensis, Lathyrus pratensis and Galium palustre, and mosses including Calliergonella cuspidata, Hylocomium splendens and Philonotis fontana; on damp to wet, gently sloping ground in the central to SW part of the site.

MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius coarse grassland (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘Neutral grassland’): coarse, species-poor grassland with swards of Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius and Holcus lanatus; occupies a field on very gently sloping land 100- 300 m E of Curlusk farm buildings (polygon 40); Cirsium arvense abundant in places (MG1b Urtica dioica sub-community); otherwise slightly less weedy (MG1a Festuca rubra sub- community).

MG6 Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus pasture (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘Improved grassland’): agriculturally improved, species-poor grassland with abundant Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Ranunculus repens, Trifolium repens and smaller amounts of other species such as Cerastium fontanum and Dactylis glomerata; mostly also with some Agrostis capilalris and Anthoxanthum odoratum and belonging to the A. odoratum sub- community MG6b, but some lacking these species and belonging to the Typical sub- community MG6a (and some not classified to sub-community level); occupies well-drained, gently to moderately sloping land in the lower (north-eastern) fields, mostly in mosaics with MG10a rush-pasture.

MG9 Holcus lanatus-Deschampsia cespitosa grassland (belongs within UK BAP non- priority habitat ‘Neutral grassland’): coarse grassland with abundant tussocks of Deschampsia cespitosa accompanied by other species including Holcus lanatus, Juncus effusus, Rumex acetosa and Ranunculus repens; small patches scattered quite widely on damp, gently sloping ground in the central and NE parts of the site.

MG10a Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus rush-pasture, Typical sub-community (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘Neutral grassland’): damp grassland in which tall tussocks of Juncus effusus grow abundantly among other species including Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Agrostis capillaris, Trifolium repens, Ranunculus repens, Leontodon autumnalis, Rumex obtusifolius, Cerastium fontanum, Epilobium montanum, Juncus bufonius and the moss Calliergonella cuspidata; widespread and common here on damp to wet, gently sloping ground.

MG13 Agrostis stolonifera-Alopecurus geniculatus grassland (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘Neutral grassland’): short swards of Agrostis stolonifera mixed with variable amounts of Alopecurus geniculatus; other species include Ranunculus repens, Glyceria fluitans, Poa trivialis, Holcus lanatus, Carex ovalis, Stellaria uliginosa and Callitriche stagnalis; small areas of this community on damp to wet, level to gently sloping ground among MG6 improved grasslands and MG10 rushy grasslands in central and NE part of site.

U4 Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile grassland (belongs within UK BAP priority habitat ‘Lowland Dry Acid Grassland’): Typical sub-community U4a has short (20-25 cm) grassland with swards of Agrostis capillaris with smaller amounts of Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Carex nigra, C. flacca, C. binervis, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Lotus corniculatus, Succisa pratensis, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, Euphrasia agg., Cirsium palustre and the mosses Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus and Hylcomium splendens and occurs on well-drained, gently to moderately sloping land in the SW corner of the site, with smaller outliers downslope to the NE; Holcus lanatus-Trifolium repens sub-community U4b is similar but with more Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Cerastium fontanum and Bellis perennis, and little or no Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile and Hylocomium splendens; extensive on upper fields in SW; smaller amounts scattered further NE.

U5 Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile grassland (belongs within UK BAP priority habitat ‘Lowland Dry Acid Grassland’): similar to the U4a described above but with Nardus stricta very abundant to dominant; small patches on well-drained slopes in central-W part of site.

U20a Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile community, Anthoxanthum odoratum sub- community (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘bracken’): bracken-dominated vegetation with an associated flora similar to that of the U4 grassland described above (and also including Holcus mollis and Primula vulgaris); small areas on well-drained sloping ground in glades among woodland in valley in NE.

OV24 Urtica dioica-Galium aparine community (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘other tall herb and fern tall ruderal’): small patch of nettles Urtica dioica with other species including Galium aparine, in corner of field about 50 m SE of Curlusk farm buildings.

Conifer/broadleaf plantation (belongs within UK BAP non-priority habitat ‘broadleaved, mixed & yew woodland’): small block of dense, mixed coniferous and broadleaved plantation on almost level, well-drained ground 50-100 m SE of Curlusk farm buildings, in central part of site; species-poor ground vegetation.

Built-up areas and gardens (UK BAP non-priority habitat): buildings and gardens of Curlusk farm, in the middle of the site.

BRIEF ASSESSMENT OF BOTANICAL INTEREST

The vegetation is broadly typical of that found more widely in enclosed fields in the foothills of the eastern Highlands. Botanical interest is generally low to medium. It is low in the improved MG6 and semi- improved U4b grasslands, MG1 Arrhenatherum coarse grasslands, MG9 Deschampsia cespitosa coarse grasslands, MG10 Juncus effusus rush pastures, and U20 and W25 bracken. These vegetation types are generally species-poor at this site and in Britain generally. The vegetation is of slightly greater (but still low to medium) botanical interest in the unimproved acid grasslands (U4a and U5), the M23a rush mires and the W11 and W7 woodland.

Five UK BAP Priority habitats were found in this survey:  Lowland Dry Acid Grassland (NVC U4 and U5). This is extensive in the SW half of the site, where most of it is semi-improved U4b (of relatively low botanical interest) but where there are also smaller areas of unimproved U4a and U5 (of slightly higher botanical interest).  Purple Moorgrass & Rush Pasture (NVC M23a). This rush mire is extensive on damp to wet, gentle slopes in the central-SW part of the site, with some small outliers further upslope to the WSW.  Upland Mixed Ashwood (NVC W7c). This is damp W7c woodland found in the narrow valley in the NE of the site, forming small areas among larger extents of drier, more acidic W11 woodland.  Upland Birchwood (NVC W11). This type of woodland occupies most of the narrow valley in the NE of the site, occurring on well-drained valley-side slopes.  Wet Woodland (NVC W7a-b). There are small patches of this wet woodland in the lower parts of the valley in the NE of the site.

SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT FUTURE MANAGEMENT

It is assumed that tree-planting is being considered at this site. The following native tree and shrub species appear appropriate to the habitats present:

 In the areas of U4 grassland: oak (either or both species), birch (either or both species), rowan, hazel, aspen and hawthorn.

 In the areas of MG1 neutral grassland and MG6 improved grassland: oak (either or both species), birch (either or both species), ash, wych elm, rowan, hazel, aspen, bird cherry, wild cherry, hawthorn and blackthorn.

 In the areas of MG9, MG10 and MG13 grasslands and M23 rush mire: downy birch, ash, wych elm, rowan, alder, bird cherry, grey willow and goat willow. In my opinion it would be best to keep some of the M23 rush mire unplanted, to allow woodland to develop more naturally there.

If the area is deer-fenced and grazing removed completely in order to allow young (planted or naturally regenerating) trees to grow more freely, it would be best for this to be a temporary measure so that grazing can return when the young trees are large enough to withstand browing (this might take about 20 years). Any period of at least a few years without grazing means some risk of a reduction in botanical diversity through ground vegetation becoming more strongly dominated by a small number of common, vigorous plant species; the longer this period is the greater the risk of losing smaller plants and causing a noticeable reduction in the diversity and conservation interest of the ground flora. Through much of the site this is not a vital issue because the botanical interest is currently low, but in the M23a rush mires botanical interest is slightly higher and it would be worth (if possible) limiting any period without grazing.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This survey was commissioned by Forest Enterprise Scotland. The contract details were arranged by Philippa Murphy at the FES office at Huntly. The base map was provided by Alan Campbell (FES Conservation Ranger) at the Huntly FES office.

Photograph 1: semi-improved acid grassland (NVC U4b) on upper slopes in SW of site.

Photograph 2: unimproved acid grassland (NVC U4a) on upper slopes in SW of site.

Photograph 3: neutral rush mire (M23a) on middle slopes.

Photograph 4: neutral rushy grassland (MG10a) on middle slopes.

Photograph 5: view within wooded valley running through lower (NE) half of site, here showing grassy woodland (W11) and open bracken patches (U20 and W25).

Photograph 6: wet woodland (W7) with willow, in bottom of wooded valley running through lower (NE) half of site.

Map 1 Habitat map of Curlusk, Morayshire, NJ 365 490 Mapped by Ben Averis on 7th September 2012. Habitat codes for polygons are in Table 1.

Table 1 Habitat data for Curlusk, Morayshire, NJ 365 490. Mapped by Ben Averis on 7th September 2012. For polygon code numbers see Map 1.

Pol

yg % NVC NVC % NVC NVC % NVC NVC Habitat 1 Habitat 2 Habitat 3 on 1 1(i) 1(ii) 2 2(ii) 2(ii) 3 3(i) 3(ii)

no.

purple moor grass 1 100 M23a & rush pasture

purple

moor lowland dry acid neutral 2 88 U4a U4b 10 MG10a grass & 2 M23a grassland grassland rush

pasture

lowland dry acid 3 100 U4b grassland

4 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

purple moor

lowland dry acid grass & neutral 5 60 U4a U5a 20 M23a 20 MG9 MG10a grassland rush grassland

pasture

purple moor grass neutral 6 96 M23a 4 MG9 MG10a & rush pasture grassland

lowland dry acid neutral 7 90 U4a U5a 10 MG9 grassland grassland

lowland dry acid 8 100 U4b grassland

lowland dry acid 9 100 U4a grassland

lowland dry acid 10 100 U5a grassland

lowland dry acid 11 100 U4b grassland

improved 12 100 MG6b grassland

13 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

14 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

15 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

16 neutral grassland 100 MG13

improved 17 100 MG6b grassland

Pol yg % NVC NVC % NVC NVC % NVC NVC Habitat 1 Habitat 2 Habitat 3 on 1 1(i) 1(ii) 2 2(ii) 2(ii) 3 3(i) 3(ii) no.

purple moor

grass & 18 neutral grassland 90 MG10a 10 M23a rush

pasture

19 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

lowland dry acid 20 100 U4b grassland

lowland dry acid neutral 21 70 U4b 30 MG9 grassland grassland

22 neutral grassland 100 MG13

improved neutral 23 85 MG6b 15 MG10a grassland grassland

other tall herb and 24 100 OV24 fern tall ruderal

broadleaved,

25 mixed & yew 100

woodland

improved 26 100 MG6b grassland

built up areas & 27 100 gardens

28 neutral grassland 100 MG13

improved 29 100 MG6b grassland

30 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

31 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

32 neutral grassland 100 MG13

33 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

improved 34 100 MG6 grassland

35 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

36 neutral grassland 100 MG13

upland

37 upland birchwood 85 W11 mixed 9 W7c bracken 5 U20a W25

ashwood

38 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

Pol yg % NVC NVC % NVC NVC % NVC NVC Habitat 1 Habitat 2 Habitat 3 on 1 1(i) 1(ii) 2 2(ii) 2(ii) 3 3(i) 3(ii) no.

improved 39 100 MG6b grassland

MG1 40 neutral grassland 100 MG1a b

improved 41 neutral grassland 50 MG13 50 MG6a grassland

improved 42 neutral grassland 70 MG10a 30 MG6b grassland

43 upland birchwood 80 W11 bracken 20 U20

coniferous 44 100 woodland

45 neutral grassland 100 MG10a

Farm Habitat Survey

Report on the Vegetation of Broadfield Farm, Moray and Aberdeenshire, August 2014 Liz Lavery Burach, Carnbo, Kinross KY13 0NX. Tel. 01577 840645 [email protected]

Survey commissioned by Forestry Commission Scotland, Aberdeenshire Forest District Contract manager, Philippa Murphy

INTRODUCTION

A habitat survey of the vegetation on Broadfield Farm, Keith, NJ399 482, was carried out on 27th August 2014. The purpose of the survey was to make a habitat map of the farm and identify priority habitats that should be conserved. The survey methodology followed that detailed in “Habitat Survey Method for recording UK Biodiversity Action

Plan habitats on land managed by Forest Enterprise Scotland, Draft. Version 4, April 2009”.

Broadfield Farm is situated about 1 mile south of Keith and is bisected by a minor road west of the B9014. The farm area is 140.6 hectares, sloping from the edge of a forest plantation on Gow Hill at c 200m to the River Isla at 137m. The farm is a mix of arable fields planted with barley and improved, semi-improved and rough grazing for cattle. Cows and calves accompanied by bulls were grazing many of the fields on the day of the survey.

A walking route was chosen to obtain clear views of all areas of the farm. Fields with stock were generally not entered and were viewed through binoculars. Field boundaries were used to split the farm into 34 polygons and 10 sub-polygons. Each polygon was given a number and marked on the Broadfield outline map provided by Forestry Commission.

Scotland. Details of the vegetation recorded for each polygon are given in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The outline 1:10,000 map and spreadsheet are provided separately.

VEGETATION SURVEY

Arable: Polygons 1, 3, 5, 6, 15, 17 and 18 were planted with barley close to the field edges. Some neutral grassland was present around margins and in field corners. Conservation strips with oxeye daisy and chicory were planted in polygon 5 and along the western edge of polygon 3, drawn on the map as 3b, as part of a conservation plan for the farm. Conservation initiatives at Broadfield have received funding from the Scottish Government’s Scotland Rural Development Programme (SRDP).

Grassland: The other fields on the farm are pasture of various quality providing grazing for beef cattle. Cattle were grazing improved grassland in polygon 10. Semi-improved grasslands in polygons 16/20, 22/24 and 25/27/30 were grazed as units. The vegetation along streams and drains in these fields were not surveyed in detail because of the presence of livestock. Damp neutral grassland dominated by tufted-hair grass (Deschampsia cespitosa) was present in semi-improved fields by the River Isla and at the top of the farm (Polygons 23, 31, 32).

Woodland: There are many areas of woodland and gorse scrub on the farm. The woodland is varied, including ash, hawthorn, wych elm, willow, alder, poplar near the

farm house, Sitka spruce plantations and priority pine and birch woodland. These areas provide food and shelter for birds and small mammals. The woodland communities recorded were W9 mixed ash, W11 birch, W7 alder and willow, W23 gorse, W21 hawthorn and W18 Scots pine. W25, bracken, is rare (Polygon 13).

Field Boundaries: The hawthorn hedgerows along the minor road and tracks are uncut and tall with several tree species. Hawthorn, wych elm, goat willow, wild rose blackthorn and guelder rose were noted in the roadside hedge beside polygons 10 17, 18. Woodland, both coniferous and deciduous, border the edge of several fields. Alder form a fringe along the River Isla. A mature beech and hawthorn hedge is present in polygon 23.

Ponds and Streams: There are several ponds and streams on the farm. The River Isla flows through 2 fields and forms the farm boundary on the east side. Priority Fen, Marsh and Swamp was recorded in several polygons.

Priority Habitats on Broadfield Farm

The following priority habitats were recorded:

UPLAND BIRCHWOOD – Mature and scrub birch woodland are present in polygons 7, 21, 28, 29.

NATIVE PINEWOOD – Polygon 28 is a strip of woodland with Scots pine and mature birch and a well developed ground flora with blaeberry, broad buckler fern, wavy hair grass and wood sorrel.

FEN MARSH & SWAMP – M23a/b Juncus effusus/acutiflorus mires are found in polygons 7, 13, 15, 15a, 21, 24, 31 and 32. S9 Carex rostrata fringes the pond in polygon 4. S28 Phalaris arundinacea is present in polygons 15 and 15a. The largest area of fen vegetation is M27/ M23a/ S28 in polygon 13. M27 Filipendula-ulmaria was found only here. Much of this marsh is dominated by tall umbellifers - Wild Angelica (Angelica sylvestris), Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), and Common Valerian (Valeriana officinalis).

UPLAND HEATH – The only area of heath encountered during the survey was in polygon 31a at the top of the farm on the edge of a mature Sitka plantation. The H10 Calluna heath is in very poor condition invaded by Sitka and gorse seedlings. Within a very short time the heather will be shaded out by gorse and Sitka.

PONDS – The vegetation in the pond in polygon 4 was not accessible to survey. A pond in polygon 23 was dry and overgrown by Soft rush (Juncus effusus), M23b. Other ponds marked on the map were not visited because stock was in the fields.

Note on conversation with owner: The farmer, Mrs Pat Michie, knows of sites where Lesser Butterfly-orchids (Platanthera bifolia) have been found on the farm. The site could not be visited because of grazing cattle. It has been surveyed in the past and information given to SNH with an application for an SRDP grant. She describes them as occurring in the upper fields on the SW side of the farm, on a grassy bank too steep for cattle beside a stream in polygon 20/21 or 25/29. I hope to obtain grid references and more details from Mrs Michie or SNH. She also said that purple Northern Marsh-orchids (Dactylorhiza purpurella) are frequent on the farm. No sign of these were found at the end of August.

Mrs Michie commented that curlews have vanished from the farm in recent years; until 20 years ago there used to be black grouse on the farm and when she first came to live at Broadfield, 41 years ago, there had been capercaille. There are occasional red squirrels.

Recommendations

 Polygon 13 - Priority Fen Marsh and Swamp should be conserved and not planted.  Other areas of Fen Marsh and Swamp should be considered carefully before planting.  Margins around watercourses (streams and drains) should be left unplanted.  The areas with Lesser Butterfly-orchids should be identified and careful consideration given to any planting near these areas.  Existing woodland should be managed and improved.  Hedgerows along the road and tracks should be conserved and, where safe, left uncut. Farm conservation management plans should be obtained from the owner