Magazine

Beavers to be legally protected species

Posted on February 23, 2019 by Helen Webster

Beavers will become a legally protected species in May, Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham has announced. This means that from 1 May 2019 shooting will only be allowed under licence, which will be managed by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). All licenses will be issued in accordance with the law on European Protected Species. Ms Cunningham said: “The Scottish Government believes in the highest standards of animal welfare – for both wild and domestic animals – and we felt it was high time that beavers enjoyed the same legal protection as other species like bats, dolphins, wildcats and otters. “There are few…

Posted in Magazine, Nature

Seven hydro power plants approved for Glen Etive

Posted on February 21, 2019 by Paul Webster

One of Scotland’s most spectacular and iconic glens is set to be developed with seven new hydro power schemes following a planning decision by Highland Council yesterday, despite more than 650 objections.

Posted in Magazine, News

Conservation in the 21st Century

Posted on February 18, 2019 by Grant Moir

The chief executive of the Cairngorms National Park Authority Grant Moir ponders changing approaches to conservation and wonders whether we are at a pivotal moment in the history of the movement.

Posted in Features, Magazine, Nature

Gear review: Keen Karraig boots

Posted on February 16, 2019 by Paul Webster

Paul tries out the latest new boots from Keen. Even the name Karraig suggests something that might have been aimed specifically at the Scottish market…

Posted in Footwear, Gear reviews, Magazine

Snow and Consequences

Posted on February 12, 2019 by David Lintern

Thinking about getting started on graded winter routes? David Lintern has a few suggestions. All we need now is the snow…

Posted in Features, Magazine

The Long Walk-in

Posted on February 8, 2019 by Cameron McNeish

How often has that thought crossed your mind? If only circumstances had been a little different anything could have happened. Couldn’t it?

Posted in Access issues, Features, Magazine, Nature

Noel Williams wins Excellence in Mountain Culture Award

Posted on February 7, 2019 by Helen Webster

Noel Williams, inspirational high school teacher, author of respected mountain guides, founding member of the Lochaber Geopark, retired member of Lochaber Mountain Rescue and accomplished hill runner, has won this year’s Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture.

Posted in Magazine, News

BBC Winterwatch comes to the Cairngorms

Posted on January 28, 2019 by Helen Webster

Winterwatch returns to BBC Two this week – and they will be broadcasting live from the Cairngorms National Park, just a few miles from Walkhighlands HQ. Presenters Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Gillian Burke will host the wildlife extravaganza, kicking off the year in one of the toughest places in the country for our animals. The freezing temperatures and blanket of snow make this an extreme environment to call home, and the team will explore how the local wildlife adapts to get through this toughest of seasons. The team will be back to the same location for both Springwatch and…

Posted in Magazine, News

Tribute to Adam Watson 1930-2019

Posted on January 26, 2019 by Bob Aitken

This is a revised and updated version of an article that first appeared in the John Muir Trust Journal in 2005 to mark Adam Watson becoming only the second person after Tom Weir to receive the John Muir Trust Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr Adam Watson was the quintessential guru of the Cairngorms; his knowledge of the hills and his authority across the spectrum of their ecological values unparalleled. He even looked the part, with his full white beard giving him an undeniable touch of Gandalf quality. Adam was one of the founding trustees of the John Muir Trust, serving from…

Posted in Features, Magazine, Nature

Gear review: MSR Revo Ascent snowshoes

Posted on January 24, 2019 by Paul Webster

Snowshoes for Scotland? Paul tests out a pair of MSR Revo Ascent snowshoes.

Posted in Accessories, Footwear, Gear reviews, Magazine