Support from the public is needed to secure £25,000 towards a new long distance route and the restoration of degraded habitats including native woodland in the heart of the Trossachs.
The Great Trossachs Forest is one of six conservation projects from around Europe competing for funding in an online poll organised by the European Outdoor Conservation Association which opens today (Monday 17 March).
The project that receives the most votes by the end of March will receive funding worth £25,000. The campaign has already found support with chef and broadcaster Nick Nairn, who is based in the area.
The funding will help to expand native woodland in the Trossachs through the planting of thousands of trees and the natural regeneration of existing woodland, and allow other habitats including wetland to be restored.
It will also be used to complete The Great Trossachs Path, a new long distance route linking the West Highland Way and Rob Roy Way between Inversnaid and Callander, as well as a number of shorter routes throughout the area.
Sue Morris, project officer for The Great Trossachs Forest said: “This is a spectacular area, home to iconic wildlife including golden eagles, black grouse and red squirrels.
“Sadly many of the most important habitats including native woodland and wetland have been damaged and need help. If we receive the funding we will be able to restore these degraded habitats and many more people will be able to enjoy and explore this spectacular landscape.”
Chef and broadcaster Nick Nairn said: “I grew up and am still based here so I’m well aware how much work is needed to restore habitats and provide new opportunities for walkers and cyclists to explore the area. I’d urge everyone who loves Scotland’s great outdoors to vote for this project and help leave a growing legacy for people, for wildlife, and for one of Scotland’s most precious environments.
“The Trossachs is unrivaled in its combination of outstanding natural beauty and accessibility. To capitalise on this and to protect it for future generations we need more paths, and more native woodland. The Great Trossachs Forest is a fantastic project that is already delivering benefits for the area, and the completion of The Great Trossachs Path will do a lot to encourage people to visit.”
Members of the public can vote for the project from Monday 17 March. More information is available at at the website.
The Great Trossachs Forest is one of the most significant native woodland conservation projects to take place in the UK for a generation. It represents a 200 year commitment by Forestry Commission Scotland, RSPB Scotland and the Woodland Trust Scotland.