upper nithsdale composite€¦ · 4. proposed management objectives 5. design concept . appendix 1...

Contents

1. Background and key information 2. A vision for the forests of Upper Nithsdale 3. Key drivers for design 4. Proposed management objectives 5. Design concept

Appendix 1 - Glossary Appendix 2 – Analysis and Concept map Appendix 3 - Stakeholder Analysis and Engagement Plan

Upper Nithsdale Composite Land Management Plan

(2018 - 2028)

Brief

Draft v0.1

2 |www.forestry.gov.uk/ | Robin Fuller | 30/06/2017

Upper Nithsdale LMP brief



1. Background and key information This is a design brief for a revision of the long term land management plan (LMP) for the forests of Upper Nithsdale, which are part of the National Forest Estate (NFE) and managed by Forest Enterprise Scotland (FES). It covers five forest blocks situated on the Southern Uplands of Dumfries and Galloway. The blocks are largely contiguous, positioned between Kirkconnel to the north and Moniaive to the south. They include Corserig (630 ha), Euchanhead (711 ha), Polskeoch (818 ha), Shinnelhead (843 ha) and Cairnhead (1351 ha) - a total of 4353 ha, and spanning a distance of over 10 miles. Corserig was approved for woodland creation in 2012 soon after its acquisition and currently has a plan that expires in 2022. The other blocks currently have an approved plan which expires in 2018. This new plan brings all five blocks together, making it easier to consider them all in context. Corserig aside, these blocks were planted between 1960 and 1990 (the majority between 1970 and 1980). Much of the crop is mature first rotation. Felling has increased in recent years, with restocked areas starting the second rotation. The current management objectives for Corserig are to produce timber, expand native woodland, and protect priority species. A starter farm in the block contributes to maintaining open habitats through controlled grazing. The dominant tree species for timber is Sitka spruce due to limited options for other conifers. The dominant tree species in the other blocks is also Sitka spruce, and reflects the success of the first foresters who were tasked with creating large-scale productive forests. However, today’s forests should also be designed with careful consideration for the social and environmental potential of forestry - as well as the economic, and this plan will consider how to make these forests more diverse and resilient. The scale of productive forestry in these forests also makes a significant net contribution to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration as the trees grow. Most of the area is dominated by steep slopes which pose a significant challenge for felling, extraction, road construction and other land management activities. There is an associated risk of soil erosion and diffuse pollution into watercourses during forestry activities. Many of the headwaters are spawning grounds for Atlantic salmon and so this plan will consider how to avoid such events. The climate is challenging for forestry, being wet and highly exposed throughout virtually all of the area. Only the valley bottom of Cairnhead and the northern fringe of Corserig offer any reprieve from these conditions. Consequently, soils are predominantly low-nutrient unflushed bogs (deep peats), surface water gleys and ironpans, with limited



brown earths restricted to the sheltered valleys. The harsh climate also limits operational access during the winter months. Wind exposure is a significant constraint for forestry with DAMS figures >16 over large areas, and >22 on some of the most exposed high ground. This poses a significant threat to the long term stability of any crops, and opportunities for thinning will be very limited. This will also limit opportunities for Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF). Cloaking several headwaters of the River Nith catchment, the forests provide an ecosystem service by regulating water quality and peak flows. However, forestry activities can also have a negative effect and any potential contribution to diffuse pollution or increased peak flows must be carefully considered. This plan will address the issue and build on plans already in place to manage the situation. It will also explore the potential contribution of Natural Flood Management (NFM). Access for timber haulage is currently restricted to one entrance at Kelloholm, as other routes to the forest use narrow fragile roads passing through small rural villages. The forests adjoin private woodland in several places, some of which also share this access point. Our ongoing contribution to achieving the aims of the Timber Transport Forum, and communication with neighbours and the local community will continue to be of importance. Timber haulage access routes will be reviewed during the revision of this plan. Plant health is a significant challenge, with the fungus Phytopthora ramorum having first been detected on larch trees in Cairnhead in 2013, and subsequently in Euchanhead. The infection leads to the tree’s death and can also spread to other larch trees (as well as other vulnerable plants, including blaeberry and Douglas fir). The potential impacts of pre-emptive felling and compulsory felling (enforced under a Statutory Plant Health Notice) include additional budget and resource requirements (e.g. road infrastructure); a compromised ability to ensure 2m separation between felling and restocking coupes; and degraded timber. This plan will consider the current situation and help to deliver the ‘Phytophthora ramorum Strategy’ for Dumfries and Borders Forest District (D&B FD). The landscape in this area is characterised by the large domed hills of the Southern Uplands cloaked in extensive forests. It is a large scale landscape creating a backdrop for many long distance views seen from the surrounding wider area. Internal views have been limited to date but these are starting to open up with recent areas of felling and restructuring. There are several operational, consented and proposed windfarms on neighbouring land, along with several proposed on the NFE within the plan area. These developments require a new transmission network to connect new sources of renewable energy into



the national grid, and the new Glenglass substation and overhead lines in Euchanhead are part of the wider South West Scotland Connections Project. Although there is limited use of the forest blocks for public recreation due to their isolation, over 60 000 visitors pass through along the Southern Upland Way (SUW) each year. The only settlement within easy walking distance is Kelloholm, where locals have particularly enjoyed visiting the Kello Water (in Corserig) for many years. Historically the community of Moniaive has been actively involved developing projects in Cairnhead, and although this interest has waned in recent years its legacy lives on, particularly in the Striding Arches sculptures. Known heritage sites are mostly located within Cairnhead, and were identified during a community commissioned survey. There are no scheduled ancient monuments within the plan area. Small areas of ancient woodland are present in Corserig and Cairnhead and will be identified for protection and enhancement, and there is potential to increase native woodland across the plan area especially in the valley bottoms and lower gullies. The forests sit within the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere, designated to ‘promote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between people and nature’. Priority species recorded locally include black grouse, goshawk, red squirrel and several bat species. Important habitats include blanket bog, herb-rich mire, acid grassland and calcareous grassland.

2. A vision for the forests of Upper Nithsdale A network of resilient, healthy and productive forests: providing a significant timber resource and associated employment. Important open habitats are actively managed to benefit biodiversity.

3. Key drivers for design The objectives of this plan will align themselves with Forest Enterprise Scotland’s strategic delivery goals, as set out in its Corporate Plan 2017-2019. This is captured in six objectives: Productive, Healthy, Treasured, Accessible, Cared for, and Good value.



Productive “Provide at least 3 million m3 of softwood timber every year [across NFE Scotland]” The forests of Upper Nithsdale will continue to play a key role in producing a predictable and stable supply of softwood timber to the processing industry, with a progressively smoothed timber production profile of around 40,000 tonnes (48,000 m3) per year. Timber haulage access routes will be reviewed as part of this revision exercise. “Realise the Estate’s renewable energy potential” We will continue to work with energy businesses to explore the potential for wind energy generation within the forests, and support installed capacity on neighbours’ land through hosting of the Glenglass substation. “Increase agricultural use of the Estate where consistent with environmental objectives” We will continue to support the starter farm in Corserig, which along with other leased grazing will contribute to the conservation management of priority open habitats such as calcareous grassland and upland heath. Healthy “Practice high quality silviculture” Although there are limited options for thinning and CCF we will look for opportunities to diversify the structure of the forest and improve silvicultural quality. The size and location of future felling coupes, and choices on subsequent restocking will be influenced by the need to protect the water environment. We will also consider practical measures to mitigate against flood events such as phased felling, hot planting and NFM. “Look after the carbon locked up in trees and soils” Using the latest research, we will plan and manage the forests to conserve carbon in soils and biomass. We will identify areas best suited for high yield crops, and those on deep peats more suited to restoration, implementing current best practice. “Help the Estate to adapt to climate change and become more resilient to pressure” Poor growing conditions limit the range of species that will grow well here, but we will identify opportunities to improve species diversity. All larch will be removed within 10



years (where road infrastructure allows) to control the rate of spread of Phytophthora ramorum. Other productive conifers will be selected where they can be established, building future resilience to tree disease threats. Treasured “Actively engage with local communities and be open to work in partnership” We will continue to be open to approaches from communities such as Moniaive and Kelloholm seeking to develop projects. Local communities will benefit from any future renewable energy developments on the NFE. We will identify and engage with as many stakeholders as possible to ensure communities of place (and interest) are involved in the Land Management Planning process (Appendix 3). Accessible “Invest available resources into high quality visitor experiences” The design of the future forest will consider important visitor zones (such as the Southern Upland Way and Striding Arches) and add diversity to make them visually attractive and inviting. Cared for “Maintain priority open and native woodland habitats in good ecological condition” The ancient semi-natural woodlands along Glenjaan Linn and the Kello Water will be protected and enhanced. The management of existing priority open habitats will be considered alongside opportunities for new habitat creation, such as on the Cairnhead tops where grazing leases have come to an end or are no longer being utilised. “Take specific conservation action for vulnerable priority species” Much work has already been done to create and enhance favourable habitat for black grouse, and we will continue to work with partners to monitor the success of this species and identify further opportunities. Deadwood habitats can support a wealth of biodiversity (e.g. bats), and suitable trees and stands in ecologically rich locations will be retained.



Good Value “Achieve best value in delivery of public benefits” A cost-benefit analysis approach will be used to consider future land management options across the forests. This may also open up opportunities to expand priority habitats, such as native wet woodland or mires where productive timber potential is low. “Seek a diverse range of income sources to underpin the cost of managing the Estate” By ensuring that we are meeting the needs of our timber processing customers we will make the most of our timber income potential. This will be achieved through our national Timber Marketing Strategy and good working relationships with local businesses. 4. Proposed management objectives

Primary Objectives

1. To maintain productivity of timber at predictable and stable levels. 2. To plan and design resilient and healthy forests. 3. To consider the impacts of our land management activities on peak water flows.

Secondary Objectives

1. To care for priority open habitats and species. 2. To facilitate opportunities for renewable energy generation. 3. To explore opportunities for woodland creation. 4. To enhance landscaping in visitor zones.

5. Design concept The factors listed below have been identified through desk-based research, initial site visits, and internal scoping meetings with function teams in D&B FD. This information has been used to produce an ‘Analysis and Concept’ map (Appendix 2).



Important factor (including opportunities and constraints)

The design concept

Water quality and flow Protect and expand riparian buffers, incorporating mires and flushes. Integrate NFM with other environmental objectives - e.g. wet woodland creation on suitable sites; new ponds and scrapes; restoration of mires. Consider size, access, timing of felling, and restocking of coupes to reduce risk of soil erosion.

Timber transport and vehicle access Current timber lorry / HGV access is restricted to one entrance at Kelloholm. Work with the Timber Transport Forum and the ‘Heads of the Valley’ (HOV) partners to ensure that timber transport impacts are minimised. Review other opportunities (e.g. recent windfarm access routes).

Priority open habitats Manage acid and calcareous grasslands to increase species diversity. Protect and restore mires where appropriate. Open up crags to protect micro-habitats (and enhance visual diversity).

Woodland expansion Seek opportunities to re-establish mountain woodland (montane scrub) on the upper slopes using best practice from existing local projects.

Protected species Bats - enhance feeding habitats close to known roosts, avoid blocking flight lines. Black grouse - continue to manage scrapes and broadleaved trees in conservation areas close to known lek sites, and establish low-density woodland edge. Raptors - identify areas for long term retention (LTR) to sustain viable breeding populations.

Heritage features Plan the future forest to protect old buildings and heritage features. Consider the context of their setting and how they can be better integrated into the landscape.

Timber production Identify the ‘right tree for the right place’ to achieve high yields and productivity. Sitka spruce will continue to be the primary species due to the challenging growing conditions.



Tree species diversity Use decision making tools such as the Ecological Site Classification (ESC), to identify areas where alternative conifers could be grown - e.g. Noble fir. Making the forest more resilient to climate change, and increasing visual diversity.

Renewable energy Work in partnership with energy businesses and neighbours to integrate renewable energy generation into the wider forest. Design the future forest to protect infrastructure and ‘blend’ it into the surrounding landscape.

Broadleaved trees Increase the area of native broadleaved trees, connecting new planting in the valley bottoms with streamside riparian zones.

Windthrow Assess suitability of the most exposed high ground areas for productive conifers. Design windfirm resilient future coupe shapes, reviewing the natural timber line.

Continuous cover forestry If there are any opportunities in the more sheltered sites, early intervention thinning will be essential.

Steep ground Use a cost-benefit analysis when considering restocking of areas on steep ground - is it worth it? Encourage the use of sky lines for extraction to minimise ground disturbance.

Forest roads Challenging terrain for road construction. Ensure coupes are well serviced by roads, primarily for the next ten years, but ideally beyond this time. Carefully consider how forestry machines will access the roads along steep slopes.

Starter farm / grazing Integrate agricultural tenancies and leases with management planning, to support other objectives - e.g. priority open habitats.

Ancient woodland Protect and expand areas of ancient woodland in Glenjaan Linn and the Kello Water, incorporating valuable deadwood habitats.

Southern Upland Way Diversify the landscape along the route to enhance the visitor experience. Improve views and environs of the Polskeoch bothy. Pull back forest edge to reduce problems with



windblown trees blocking the route. Striding Arches Ensure walking access is maintained to all of

the sculptures. Maintain the Benbuie-Cairnhead forest road to an acceptable standard for visitors.

Landscape Take account of the Land Classification Assessment for the area, recognising the large-scale nature of the landscape. Ensure the forest makes a positive visual contribution to the residents of Kirkconnel and Kelloholm.

Deer Increasing requirements for tree protection with restocking and proposed broadleaves expansion. Identify strategically located deer lawns in open space and riparian corridors where control will be most effective. Ensure good access for extracting carcasses.

Biosphere How does integrated land management of the forests contribute to the sustainable development objectives of the biosphere reserve?

Appendix 1: Glossary LMP Land Management Plan (often referred to as the ‘plan’). Provides

direction on how a forest and associated open ground are to be managed over a ten year period. Previously known as a ‘Forest Design Plan’.

FES Forest Enterprise Scotland. Managers of the National Forest Estate. D&B FD Dumfries and Borders Forest District - one of ten FES management

areas across Scotland. SUW Southern Upland Way. A long distance coast-to-coast walking route

across south Scotland NFE National Forest Estate (owned by Scottish Minister’s on behalf of the

nation).



NFM Natural flood management. For example, wet woodland; ponds; woody debris dams; mires.

CCF Continuous Cover Forestry. Areas that are not clear felled, but

progressively thinned over time. HOV Heads of the Valley. A vehicle access and roads maintenance

agreement between the neighbouring landowners in this area. LTR Long-term retention. A silvicultural term where trees are left

standing beyond their usual felling age. ESC Ecological Site Classification. A decision making tool to help select

the best tree species for the environmental conditions.

D&B FD Dumfries and Borders Forest District



Appendix 2: Analysis and Concept Map



Appendix 3: Stakeholder Analysis and Engagement Plan

Heritage

Old buildings and undesignated archaeological

features can be found in the forests (mostly a

legacy of historic farming communities).

Design the forest to ensure their protection,

whilst aiming to integrate them into the

landscape.

Water

The forests cloak several headwaters of the River Nith.

Migratory salmon and sea trout spawn in the streams.

Protect and expand riparian buffers (areas around

watercourses), incorporating mires and flushes. To

reduce risk of soil erosion and increased flows

consider location and timing of tree felling, and

when to replant. Integrate natural flood

management with other environmental objectives -

e.g. wet woodland creation.

Deer

The establishment of young trees is

significantly threatened from roe and red deer

browsing.

Identify strategically located deer lawns

with good access, in open space and

riparian corridors where control will be

most effective.

Wildlife

Legally protected species including black

grouse, otter, birds of prey, and bats are all

known to use the forests.

Protect important breeding, roosting and

feeding sites and enhance habitats where

this will benefit these species, and other

woodland wildlife. Also see 'Water'

Timber

The forests contribute large quantities of softwood timber

to the processing industry. Poor soils and exposure to

strong winds limits opportunities for thinning. There is a

good network of existing forest roads - new construction

will be challenging due to the terrain.

Sitka spruce will continue to be the primary

productive tree species due to the challenging

growing conditions. Focus effort in locations most

likely to achieve high yields. Consider requirements

for road access.

Tree Health

Phytophthora ramorum has infected

larch trees in several of the forests.

Undertake pre-emptive felling to

remove all larch within 10 years.

Respond to Statutory Plant Health

Notices. Consider alternative

conifer species to improve

resilience.

Landscape

The landscape in this area is characterised by the

large domed hills of the Southern Uplands cloaked

in extensive forests. Internal views have been

limited to date but these are starting to open up

with recent areas of felling and restructuring.

Recognise the large-scale nature of the

landscape when designing the future forest,

ensuring unity of scale, shape and visual

diversity.

Open Ground / Agriculture

There is a range of open habitats amongst the wooded areas

including calcareous and acid grassland; flushed mires and

blanket bog. A starter farm was established at Corserig in

2012.

Integrate agricultural tenancies and grazing leases to

support conservation management objectives. Protect

and restore mires where appropriate. Open up crags to

protect micro-habitats (and enhance visual diversity)

Vehicle Access

Most of the public roads connecting the

forests are unsuitable for HGVs and pass

through small villages. There is currently

only one access point at Kelloholm.

Review timber haulage access routes.

Work with the Timber Transport Forum

and the 'Heads of the Valley' (HOV)

partners to minimise impacts.

Native Woodland

A mixture of natural grown and planted native tree

species can be found in the forests, especially along

watercourses.

Protect existing ancient woodland. Expand the

amount of native woodland, especially in the valley

bottoms and lower gullies. Consider opportunities

for mountain woodland on the upper slopes.

Renewable Energy

There are several operational, consented

and proposed windfarms on neighbouring

land. A new substation is located in the

forest at Euchanhead, along with a new

transmission network.

Work in partnership with energy

businesses and neighbours to integrate

renewable energy generation into the

wider forest. Design the future forest to

protect infrastructure and soften its

impact on the surrounding landscape.

Public Access

The Southern Upland Way passes through the

forest and there is a bothy at Polskeoch. The

Striding Arches sculptures attract visitors.

Otherwise, use of the forests for recreation is

low.

Ensure walking access is maintained to all of

the Striding Arches sculptures. Diversify the

landscape along the route of the SUW to

enhance the visitor experience.

FES tenants / leaseholders

Public agencies

Stakeholders in the forests of

Upper Nithsdale Economic interests

Professional interests

Local community

FES

Wider catchment

Neighbours

Local users

Residents Landowners

Recreation - walkers, horse riders, wildlife

enthusiasts

Those undertaking illegal / antisocial /

unauthorised activities

Forestry related

businesses

Other businesses

Contractors (hauliers, machine

operators)

Timber processers (sawmills, paper mills)

Local shops and accommodation

providers

Utilities companies

Windfarms Electricity Water Phone Gas

Users Communities at risk of flooding

Visitors to the Striding Arches

Walkers on the Southern

Upland Way

Forest district - function teams

Forest District

Manager

Chief Executive

Charities / special interest groups / NGOs

D&G Council

Roads Dept. Archaeologist Biodiversity Officer Access Team Landscape Team

Community councils

SNH

SEPA FCS

Nith District Salmon

Fishery Board

RSPB

Scottish Government (Cabinet Secretary)

Historic Environment

Scotland

Stakeholder Analysis for the Upper Nithsdale Land Management Plan

June 2017

Upper Nithsdale Land Management Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Plan (June 2017)

As a public sector body, Forest Enterprise Scotland is committed to ensuring that as many people as possible are involved in the Land Management Planning process. We encourage local people, or groups of people with a common interest to get involved with the use and management of National Forest Estate woodlands. We will recognise the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, and use the ‘National Standards for Community Engagement’ to ensure local people living near the forests are involved in making decisions about their community.

Stakeholder (SH)

SH key interests and issues What do we want from the SH? When / how will we communicate with the SH?

Community councils

• Glencairn • Tynron • Penpont • Royal Burgh

of Sanquhar & District

• Kirkconnel & Kelloholm

• (Carsphairn)

As the most local tier of elected representation, Community Councils play an important role in local democracy.

Dissemination of information about the plan to the local community to ensure they have an opportunity to: share information; make suggestions; and raise concerns with us.

1. At the scoping stage by inviting representatives to attend a public meeting.

2. Invite to ‘Forestry Panel’ event in August 2017 focussed on Upper Nithsdale.

3. When the plan is in final draft stage by directing them to the FCS website.

FES tenants / leaseholders

• Corserig tenant farmer

• Grazing tenants

Direct and indirect impacts on their livelihoods.

Collaborative working to meet the plan’s objectives.


Neighbours - residents and landowners

Access rights (over FES land) - if applicable. Forestry activities that may cause potential damage or disturbance (e.g. damage or

Continued (or new) access rights / agreements (over neighbour’s land) - if applicable. Assistance during emergency events (e.g. fires).

1. At the scoping stage by inviting them to a public meeting.


pollution of water supplies; unacceptable levels of noise). A visually attractive forest that does not block light and views.

Partnership working across ownership boundaries to help meet the objectives of the plan, and wider initiatives.

Local recreational users

• Walkers • Horse riders • Wildlife

enthusiasts

An inviting, visually attractive forest with diverse structure and composition. Unobstructed access into the forest. Easy access between significant features in the forest. External and internal views.

The location of popular access points and routes. Information on significant features and viewpoints. Knowledge of important species and habitats in the forest.

1. At the scoping stage by inviting local residents to a public meeting.

2. At the scoping stage through a press release.

Those undertaking antisocial / unauthorised activities

• Hut and boardwalk construction

• Vandalism • Quads/trial

bikes • Fires • Fly tipping

Utilisation of the forest’s seclusion and space to socialise and undertake unauthorised activities. Utilisation of the forest’s seclusion to carry out illegal/antisocial activities.

Cessation of these activities. 1. Ongoing through on-site posters. 2. Via discussions with other

members of the public at the public meeting and other opportunities.

3. Via a close working relationship with Police Scotland.

Forestry contractors

A steady, reliable source of work. Opportunities to invest in new technology, and expand the workforce.

A quality contract resource available to help us deliver the objectives of the plan.

1. During the tendering and management of contracts we will raise awareness of the plan’s objectives.

Timber processing businesses

A reliable source of timber products to sustain the supply chain for construction timber, chip and pulp. Supplies of timber products for niche markets.

A buoyant, adaptive industry that helps us maximise the economic potential of the Estate.

1. By providing a copy of the plan Brief to CONFOR and requesting feedback.

2. Invite CONFOR to ‘Forestry Panel’ event in August 2017 focussed on Upper Nithsdale.

Utilities companies

• Windfarms • Electricity • Water • Gas • Phone • Broadband

Avoiding service disruption to customers. Maximising business efficiency and development opportunities. Supporting government targets to modernise services.

UKFS/UKWAS compliance. Economic benefits for the Estate. Expansion of the renewables sector to support SG’s efforts to tackle climate change. Information about their requirements to help shape the LMP.

1. At the synthesis stage of the plan, through discussions with key players (in particular SPEN and SPR).

Local shops and accommodation providers

Attracting visitors to the area to use their facilities.

Awareness of the benefits of the Estate in supporting local economies.

1. At the scoping stage by inviting local residents to a public meeting.

Communities at risk of flooding

To avoid flood damage to property.

A more informed understanding of how forests contribute to NFM; and the mitigation measures we are taking to avoid any potential negative impacts of forestry operations on peak flows.

1. At the scoping stage by holding a public meeting.

Visitors to the Striding Arches

Good vehicle access and parking space. Orientation information. Unobstructed walking access to the sculptures.

For them to enjoy their visit; and to encourage them (and their friends and family) to visit the Estate.

1. By reviewing and updating the on-site interpretation.

Walkers on the Southern Upland Way

Unobstructed path, clear of fallen trees. An inviting, visually attractive forest with diverse structure and composition. External and internal views.

For them to enjoy their visit; and to encourage them (and their friends and family) to visit the Estate.

1. By providing information about the forest at the Polskeoch bothy.

2. Erection of threshold signage where the walk enters the Estate.

Dumfries and Borders Forest District - Forest District Manager

Approved Land management Plans covering the National Forest Estate in Dumfries and Borders Forest District. Compliance with UKFS, UKWAS and FES policies.

Strategic direction for developing the plan. Information on significant drivers that will influence development of the plan.

1. Meeting at the scoping stage. 2. Production of a plan Brief for their

consideration and approval. 3. Consultation on the final draft

plan prior to external consultation.

4. Approval of the final version of the plan prior to submission.

Dumfries and Borders Forest District - function teams

Delivery of their function’s objectives. Clear, realistic plans that allow them to achieve these objectives.

Information about constraints, opportunities and aspirations. Feedback on practical options and problem solving.

1. Meetings at the scoping stage. 2. On-going discussions during the

analysis and synthesis stages. 3. Consultation on the final draft

plan prior to external consultation.

RSPB Providing homes for nature, through well managed land that is connected with wild spaces and habitats in the wider landscape.

Expert advice on protected bird species. Feedback on our current land management practices, and suggestions to benefit nature.

1. By providing the local RSPB team with a copy of the plan Brief and requesting feedback.


3. Signposting to final draft of the plan for further comments.

Nith District Salmon Fishery Board

The protection, enhancement and conservation of stocks of salmon and sea trout throughout the fisheries of the River Nith.

Expert advice on protecting fisheries and riparian habitats. Feedback on our current land management practices, and suggestions to benefit aquatic wildlife.

1. By providing a copy of the plan Brief and requesting feedback.



FCS (South Scotland Conservancy)

Regulating forestry activities; approving long-term forest plans; issuing felling licences; issuing and enforcing Statutory Plant Health Notices.

Feedback on draft plan - flagging up concerns / possible solutions. LMP approval.

1. By sharing the final draft version of the plan (after all other consultation).

2. Submission of final plan for approval.

SEPA Raising awareness of, and enforcing environmental regulations. Development of Flood Risk Management Strategies, and River Basin Management Plans.

Advice on the potential impacts of forestry activities on water quality and flow regulation in the River Nith catchment (positive and negative).




Scottish Natural Heritage

Promoting, caring for, and improving Scotland’s natural heritage.

Specialist advice on protected species and habitats.

Suggestions for protecting or enhancing biodiversity and geodiversity.



3. Signposting to final draft of the

plan for further comments. D&G Council Various teams responsible for

ensuring delivery of their function’s objectives: Roads Archaeology Biodiversity Landscape Public Access

Specialist advice for identifying constraints and opportunities during development of the plan. Approval of any proposed new roads.




Historic Environment Scotland

Investigating, caring for and promoting Scotland’s historic environment.

Specialist advice for identifying constraints and opportunities during development of the plan.




upper nithsdale composite€¦ · 4. proposed management objectives 5. design concept . appendix 1...

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