Fourteen projects in Scotland will receive a portion of £7.8 million from the Scottish Government to aid in the restoration of endangered habitats and species. The Nature Restoration Fund, initiated in 2021, has now surpassed £40 million in contributions with this latest funding round.
The projects encompass various initiatives such as expanding woodlands, establishing wetlands, and revitalizing rivers. Additionally, efforts will be made to safeguard native species like the red squirrel and manage invasive non-native plants such as rhododendron, which will benefit Scotland’s rainforests.
Nature and Life (Credits: Nature Scot)
A considerable portion of £1.4 million will be allocated to the River Esk project. This endeavor includes the creation and revitalization of 170 hectares of native woodland, the development of 30 hectares of wetland, the restoration of 250 meters of the March burn to its floodplain, and habitat restoration in the River South Esk.
Another substantial allocation of £1 million will support the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels project. This initiative aims to counter the decline of red squirrels, whose population has dwindled due to competition with grey squirrels and the transmission of squirrel pox.
The Saving Argyll’s Rainforest project is set to receive £935,438 to clear rhododendrons in the Tayvallich area of Knapdale, Argyll, and Bute. This will benefit native woodlands and safeguard a significant portion of defendable, high-quality native woodland.
Nature and Mountain Peaks (Credits: Public Sector Executive)
Other funded projects include ‘Informed Deer Management’ in Coigach and Assynt, Galloway River restoration, and the final phase of the Peffery Catchment Restoration Project.
Lorna Slater, the Biodiversity Minister, highlighted the importance of investing in restoration projects to protect Scotland’s diverse wildlife and landscapes. She emphasized the need to halt biodiversity loss and ensure a sustainable future for wildlife and ecosystems.
Colin Galbraith, Chair of NatureScot, emphasized the urgency of addressing the nature-climate crisis. He emphasized collaboration with local communities, land managers, and partners to achieve large-scale restoration and biodiversity goals by 2045.
The projects funded through the Nature Restoration Fund signify a concerted effort to combat environmental challenges and promote the recovery of Scotland’s natural heritage.
