Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) are seeking views on the future management of Craigieburn Forest in Moffatt, Dumfries and Galloway.

Sitting on the lower slopes of the Moffat Hills, Craigieburn Forest is around ten times the size of Moffat and is currently primarily a timber producing forest, while also containing important ancient woodland sites and being a popular destination for recreation.

The FLS is keen to hear from any interested parties, but in particular those in and around Moffat, as it developed a new 10-year forest management plan for the area.

Speaking about Craigieburn, FLS Planning Forester, John Ogilvie, said; "This is a large and complex site that although is mostly for producing timber, also has areas of native woodland restoration and several important watercourses that link the native broadleaf/open habitat network within the forest.


"It's a routine part of our business to review management plans every ten years and its Craigieburn Forest's turn in the spotlight.

"Some of the things we're looking at include diversifying the range of species and plant more Douglas fir, Norway spruce and Scots pine, as well as adding low density native broadleaves, juniper, and Scots pine.

"Together with plans to remove non-native regeneration to improve a range of habitats, for species such as black grouse, and developing areas of older growth conifers to benefit raptors and red squirrels, this will eventually give the Forest quite a different character.

"There is a trail network through Craigieburn, and we know how popular it is with local people and visitors for recreation so if anyone wants to find out more and give us their views, we'd be happy to see them on the day."

As part of its routine review of land management plans, FLS will host adrop-in event on Wednesday 24th May at Moffat Town Hall (2.00pm-6.00pm).