Photo: JMT
The JMT says it is a race against time to race the money for the purchase which is on the open market with a valuation of £1million. So far just over £70,000 has been pledged. The two charities say they aim to create a more natural ecosystem on the property, including encouraging native woodland and promoting habitat for priority species such as black grouse.
Talla and Gameshope borders the Carrifran Wildwood and consists of 5,300 acres (2,150 hectares) of spectacular hill country, including the summits of Great Hill, Molls Cleuch Dod, Carlavin Hill and Firthhope Rig. It lies at the heart of the historic Ettrick Forest, which for centuries provided a sanctuary for the dispossessed and a refuge for rogues and rebels, but now only exists in isolated remnants.
A spokesperson for the JMT said, “If our bid is successful we will work together to manage the property with the help of volunteers. The wild character of Talla and Gameshope is under threat from a number of potential developments. If we acquired the property, we would aim to protect the area from inappropriate developments that would negatively impact on the wild land area and its wildlifeSo far more than £70,000 but there’s still a long way to go, and there’s only a short time to secure pledges to purchase the estate.”
For more information on the appeal including how to donate visit the JMT website.