SNH Area News Argyll and Outer Hebrides
Correspondents: Marina Pugh, Johanne Ferguson, Roddy MacMinn
Researching the Celtic Rainforest
Together with the Atlantic Hazel Action Group (AHAG) SNH is funding a 3 year project to improve our understanding of the ecology and distribution of hazel gloves fungus across the region. Hazel gloves fungus is a very rare species confined to only the best examples of undisturbed, ancient woodlands. Atlantic hazelwoods are on par with the machair as being a unique Scottish habitat.
Using previous data gathered on hazelwood indicator species we will identify sites with good potential for survey across the Mid Argyll region. These sites will be monitored in the longer term and will incorporate data describing habitat attributes and characteristics. The data will be used to build up a clearer picture of the distribution of the hazel gloves fungus in Mid Argyll. The project aims to address the dearth of local recorders by providing training workshops to train up local volunteers to survey woodlands and raise the profile of this fungus and the undisturbed, ancient woodlands for which Mid Argyll represents an important stronghold. The project will seek to use this data in steering the management of these sites through schemes such as the SRDP to promote positive management such as beneficial grazing levels or control of invasive rhododendron.
www.snh.gov.uk
Golden eagle observatory opens on Harris
Hosting one of the highest densities of breeding golden eagles in Europe, the North Harris hills are arguably the best place to watch eagles in Scotland. The North Harris Eagle Observatory, recently opened, was designed and built by the local community trust as one of several recent projects aimed at raising the profile of the unique natural history and landscape of the area. Situated in a spectacular location a short walk up Glen Miavaig, which is seven miles to the north-west of Tarbert, the observatory will be open to the public at all times, all year round. Inside the building are a series of interpretation panels giving an insight into eagles, their identification and ecology as well as an excellent overview of the other wildlife you might find in the glen. On locally advertised days the North Harris Ranger will be on hand to help you locate the eagles and answer any questions you might have. Glen Miavaig is home to a resident pair of golden eagles but is also frequented by sea eagles and immature golden eagles so the chances of seeing an eagle are good. The North Harris Trust manage the 25,000 hectare community-owned estate and delivered this project with funding from SNH, LEADER and the Brown & Forbes Memorial Trust.
The Outer Hebrides Way – a step closer?
Funding from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and SNH has recently been secured for the Outer Hebrides Way. This long distance route will run from Vatersay in the south to the Butt of Lewis, taking in some spectacular scenery and wildlife on the way, from the machairs of the Uists, through the Harris hills to the peatlands and the rugged coastline of Lewis. The walking route (mostly offroad) will link up some existing paths/routes with a few entirely new sections and there will also be a cycling route (mostly on road). A Project Manager and a Project Assistant will be employed to deliver the project with the support of a steering group. This exciting project has been an aspiration of both the Community Planning Partnership and the Area Tourism Partnership for some time and the volunteering and health sectors are now also showing a keen interest. A long distance route has the potential to attract more visitors to the Outer Hebrides and to deliver significant economic benefits not just to existing tourism services but also to provide new opportunities. There are still some challenges to overcome before the project starts – most importantly, confirmation of European match funding…
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