100 site milestone for rewilding networks

A SCOTTISH network of farms, crofts and community woodlands committed to rewilding has reached 100 partners - with more sites in Dumfries and Galloway urged to sign up. The Northwoods Rewilding Network now covers 31,576 acres across Scotland and is aiming to reach an ecologically restored landscape – where habitats are better connected and species can recover, expand and disperse. Project lead James Nairne says there’s increasing recognition that nature recovery is needed across large portions of Scotland’s landscapes. He said: “Our network is made up of farmers, crofters, community groups and other landowners, who are responsible for relatively small plots in Scotland, but who have come together to create something much bigger.” Rewilding actions differ on each site, and can involve expanding or enriching native woodlands, restoring carbon-storing wetlands or creating natural corridors to help wildlife move freely across the landscape. For more information, visit www.scotlandbigpicture.com/northwoods Above: Balmangan Farm next to Kirkcudbright Bay