Native woodland on the banks of Loch Lomond has been hailed as one of Scotland's most precious natural resources and of global importance.
The area contains some of Scotland’s rare temperate rainforests which host a range of wildlife.
Now, a partnership by Scotland’s leading nature conservation organisations, has launched the Atlantic Woodland Alliance in a bid to save dwindling rainforests across Scotland, including those bordering Loch Lomond.
The alliance includes Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority.
A new report reveals that there is as little as 30,325 hectares of rainforest left in Scotland.
The remnant oak, birch, ash, native pine and hazel woodlands are small, fragmented and isolated from each other.
They are over mature and often show little or no regeneration and are in danger of being lost forever.
The partners will now work to implement a strategy to save and expand them.
READ MORE: Council to walk away from Helensburgh woodland management roleSimon Jones, director of conservation and visitor operations at the park authority said: “The native woodland in the national park includes some of Scotland’s rare temperate rainforests which are one of our most precious natural resources and of global importance.
“By better managing and expanding our native woodlands, we not only increase the diversity of wildlife they support, but also help build resilience to the impacts of a warming climate – a vital legacy for future generations.”
The National Park Authority is currently consulting on a draft Trees and Woodland Strategy which sets out an ambitious plan for how trees and woodlands are to be enhanced and used within the National Park.
READ MORE: Funds available to make National Park a better place for allThe document sets out plans to deliver a wide range of benefits across the National Park including increasing woodland coverage, particularly of native trees, the creation of forestry sector jobs and promoting outdoor recreation activities to help improve the health and wellbeing of those visiting, living and working within the National Park.
More information on the strategy and how to submit your views can be found
here.
The deadline for responding to the consultation has been extended to Monday, June 10.
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