Scotland: Cowal and Trossachs Forest District

Forest Overview
50,000 trees

The main feature of Cowal and Trossachs Forest District is the large variation- from the flat, fertile areas of the Carse of Stirling in the east, through the scenic, forested landscapes of the Trossachs, to the coastal region of south Cowal. This area also includes much of the area of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. The district is heavily wooded and although dominated by conifer, the area has the highest percentage of broadleaf woodland in Scotland.

Need for Trees

The different forest blocks are all part of a habitat corridor that needs to be developed for the benefit of the flora and fauna of the forest structure. Some of these areas were commercial plantations that need to be converted to native woodlands. This area has a high proportion of ancient woodland and is also a key asset and important for tourism. Through the unique partnership with the Scottish Ministers and Enterprise, 50,000 coniferous and hardwood trees will be planted and efforts to eradicate invasive species will also continue.

Impact

Water is a significant feature of Cowal and Trossachs Forest District. The district includes a large number of inland water bodies including Loch Lamond, Loch Katrine, and Loch Eck as well as a number of sea lochs such as Loch Fyne, Loch Goil, and Loch Long. This area also contains the catchments of a number of major river systems, including the headwaters of the River Forth, the northern catchment of the Endrick Water, as well as the northern boundary of the Firth of Clyde. The continuation of this project and the planting of this corridor are making a big impact with the locals and their treasured waterways.

About the Pledge