What we're doing
The Woodland Trust is investing significant resources in the expansion and protection of Scotland’s rainforest.
On our estate
We manage a chain of five woodlands on the west coast, all of which have unique rainforest characteristics:
Whilst each site is being managed to conserve this rare habitat, the native pinewoods of Ben Shieldaig and Loch Arkaig are especially significant – native pinewoods make up only 3% of woodland found in Scotland’s rainforest.
With landowners
We work with a range of landowners to expand and restore native woodland across the west coast. We support small woodland creation schemes through MOREwoods, as well as bringing together landowners and their neighbours to connect rainforest remnants at scale across landscapes, such as in Torridon, Argyll, Morvern and Bute.
As part of our Croft Woodlands project we offer free advice to crofters and smallholders across the Highlands, Argyll and the Western Isles on how to manage woodland, plant trees and secure grants. We have already helped bring over 1,000ha of woodland into sustainable management as part of this programme.
With policymakers
We’re working to get more policy support and resource allocation for the restoration and expansion of the rainforest. The key policy issues that need to be addressed in order for the rainforest to thrive are herbivore overgrazing and Rhododendron ponticum infestation. Policy action in these important areas sits with Government and together with environmental NGO partners we’re lobbying for change.
As part of the Alliance
Together with Plantlife Scotland, the Woodland Trust is a key supporter of the Alliance for Scotland’s Rainforest. Our contribution pays the salary of a project manager and the Trust’s own staff lead on project fundraising, advocacy and communications.