Conservation projects in the Trossachs and on the Isle of Skye are in the running to win funding from the European Outdoor Conservation Association in a public vote which closes tomorrow.
The Skye project is in the running in the Alpine category of the awards, and would see the John Muir Trust win cash to pay for repairs to the path up the iconic mountain, Bla Bheinn. The mountain guards the entrance to the Black Cuillin range on the Isle of Skye, and stands in rugged wild land ringed by coastal villages, sea lochs and native woodland.
Chris Goodman, the John Muir Trust Footpath Manager said: “The breath-taking view from the summit and the relatively straightforward access attracts thousands of people to Bla Bheinn each year.
“The pressure of footfall combined with the high rainfall here has created serious erosion on sections of the footpath, damaging fragile soil and plants, and causing sedimentation of nearby streams. It has also opened up a scar on the mountainside which is visible for miles.”
You can vote for the Bla Bheinn project in the Alpine category here.
Meanwhile in the Outdoor category another Scottish project also needs votes. The Trossachs Gateway Project is seeking 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.”
You can vote for the Trossachs Gateway Project in the Outdoor category here.