Eigg Woodlands

Considerable progress has been made in the programme of works designed to manage & enhance the islands woodlands. The objectives of this work include the erection of stock proof fencing to encourage natural regeneration, the management & rotational felling of introduced conifers, replanting of felled areas with native species, the creation of footpaths throughout the woodland complex and the establishment of an overall policy to deal with timber products on the island. In association with the work programme, we have invested in specialist machinery & provided appropriate training for a local workforce. Currently the woodland project is providing employment for up to eight island people on an ongoing basis.

Already the first benefits of this work are becoming apparent with the conifer clearance at Blar Dubh - completing the first stage in the restoration of the SSSI listed bog. Additionally, several heavily grazed & eroded patches of woodland have benefited from stock exclusion and are once more carpeted in wild flowers. This project has been funded by: Millennium Forest for Scotland Trust, Forestry Authority Woodland Grant Scheme, Lochaber Ltd & Scottish Natural Heritage.

Andrew Raven, director of Millennium Forest for Scotland,
opening woodland trails - 9th June 2001