tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36190053373794757022024-03-13T11:36:10.342+00:00Scotland's Moorland ForumA Blog for the exchange of news and views about the moorlands and uplands of Scotland and beyond.Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.comBlogger265125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-91627476688253855732018-03-30T14:48:00.002+01:002018-04-09T10:50:11.849+01:00Principles of Moorland Management - Guidance Published<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCa4MOtZ2gx6lGRIhKugRCxK1xu-KzICoN-UUQ9aq2662q3y-1S9RbuhvFd8NyUb-V2t1eE2X60Ud_DEqVEjZsX3L6X8sBvlRhxck0DZWxtiD_FRMWQ5AA_EAJ-9UbCIazVJOpPgieRda/s1600/PoMM+Border.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1600" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCa4MOtZ2gx6lGRIhKugRCxK1xu-KzICoN-UUQ9aq2662q3y-1S9RbuhvFd8NyUb-V2t1eE2X60Ud_DEqVEjZsX3L6X8sBvlRhxck0DZWxtiD_FRMWQ5AA_EAJ-9UbCIazVJOpPgieRda/s320/PoMM+Border.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am delighted that it has been possible to publish the guidance on three PoMM topics today:</div>
<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Heather Cutting</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Mountain Hare Management</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Worm Control for Grouse</li>
</ul>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
This guidance can be found on the Forum's website in a separate <a href="http://www.moorlandforum.org.uk/pomm-guidance-documents" target="_blank">Published Guidance</a> page and there is a link to this page from the Home page.</div>
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This published guidance has had a long-gestation period but I believe that the effort has been worthwhile. I understand that some members of the Forum will be happier with the guidance than others, but we should remember that this guidance is intended to be a summation of current thinking with a view to advising practitioners about how to manage in accordance with best practice. This will never be a static position and the intention is to keep all the guidance under review so that it continues to reflect latest information, regulation and experience.</div>
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My thanks go to everyone who has contributed to the production of this guidance. It has not been simple to achieve this level of consensus but I believe this type of guidance provides a baseline to work from and it is likely to that the guidance provides a more flexible and a more effective approach to achieving best practice than the alternative of additional regulation.</div>
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I set out some suggestions about the further development of the PoMM project in the earlier <a href="http://moorlandforum.blogspot.co.uk/2018/03/principles-of-moorland-management.html" target="_blank">blog post</a>. I hope this will trigger some support to produce guidance for more topics. Some nice quick, easy wins would be welcome after these three, heavyweight topics!</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-83374491267285856362018-03-26T15:34:00.003+01:002018-04-03T11:16:06.465+01:00Forum Meeting 23rd March - Highlights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s1600/MF+Logo+large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="66" data-original-width="430" height="49" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s320/MF+Logo+large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Forum met on 23rd March in Perth and the meeting was well attended. Full minutes of the meeting will be circulated to members of the Forum, but these are the highlights.</div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="color: purple;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><b>Guest presentations</b></span></div>
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</span>
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Jo O’Hara, Head of Forestry Commission Scotland provided an outline of the changes that are taking place in the Forestry Commission to set up ‘Forestry & Land Scotland’ (management of the forestry estate) and ‘Scottish Forestry’ (regulation), which will both be independent agencies of the Scottish Government. An open consultation will be held regarding the development of a Forest Strategy.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Emma Goodyer from the IUCN UK Peatland Programme had been due to speak about the Commission of Inquiry Update that is in progress, but sadly she was unwell and unable to attend the meeting.</div>
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<br /></div>
<b></b><br />
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<b><b><span style="color: purple;">Briefings</span></b></b></div>
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</b>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Briefings were provided before the meeting and they are available on the website, but the authors spoke to their briefings during the meeting:</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Andrew Coupar – Peatland Update.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Hamish Trench - The Land Commission. As a result of his attendance it was agreed that the Land Commission would apply for membership of the Forum.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Will Boyd-Wallis - Cairngorms NPA forestry strategy review.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Duncan Orr-Ewing - Carbon-Neutral Farming.</li>
</ul>
<b></b><br />
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<b><b><span style="color: purple;">Strategic Issues</span></b></b></div>
<b>
</b>
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Discussion centred on how the Forum could identify long-term objectives for moorland in Scotland with links to other strategies and as part of the development of a UK, post-Brexit framework. Engagement with the consultation over the Forest Strategy could be part of this, as well as input to the work strands identified by the Land Commission, principally Land Ownership and Land Use Decision-Making.</div>
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A short summary of the breadth of issues covered by the Moorland Forum could be prepared, as a way to highlight why the uplands are in need of careful consideration. Volunteers to refine this approach and assist with the production of a summary are being sought.</div>
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<b></b><br />
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<b><b><span style="color: purple;">Summer meeting</span></b></b></div>
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</b>
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It was agreed that the summer meeting on 1st June 2018 will take place at <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Carsphairn,+Castle+Douglas+DG7+3TQ/@55.2116981,-4.5401418,10z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x486285616fa0475f:0x9cb72d5bcf6858a1!8m2!3d55.211699!4d-4.259969?hl=en">Carsphairn</a> and it will be hosted by the <a href="http://www.gsabiosphere.org.uk/">Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere</a>.</div>
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<b></b><br />
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<b><b><span style="color: purple;">Principles of Moorland Management (PoMM)</span></b></b></div>
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</b>
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Agreement was reached to publish the guidance on: Heather Cutting, Mountain Hare and Worm Control in Grouse. Much debate has taken place during the development of this guidance and although the topics have covered some contentious issues, it is to members’ credit that the Forum has been able to agree a common position on this guidance. Some final tweaks will be made, to reflect the discussion during the meeting, ahead of publication at the end of this week.</div>
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With the publication of this guidance, the focus can now shift to the production of other guidance. Suggestions for topics to cover will be welcome (see the <a href="http://moorlandforum.blogspot.co.uk/2018/03/principles-of-moorland-management.html">Blog post</a>).</div>
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<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><b><span style="color: purple;">Muirburn Code</span></b></b></div>
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</b>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
A Development Plan to address the refinement and expansion of the Code’s supplementary information (See the <a href="http://muirburncode.blogspot.co.uk/2018/03/muirburn-code-development.html">Muirburn blog Post</a>) is being considered by a small group. This will be circulated for input to the Muirburn Group, and more widely, before being finalised.</div>
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<br /></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><b><span style="color: purple;">Working for Waders</span></b></b></div>
<b>
</b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Chris Wernham (BTO) provided an update from the meeting of the Facilitation Team that had taken place earlier in the week. Three Action Groups have met twice and a plan for further work during 2018-19 is being developed.</div>
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<br /></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><b><span style="color: purple;">Chairman’s Succession</span></b></b></div>
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</b>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Succession Task Group met after the meeting and a separate note will be circulated to Forum members.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-48491700596297921472018-03-11T12:45:00.004+00:002018-03-11T12:45:25.268+00:00Principles of Moorland Management<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCa4MOtZ2gx6lGRIhKugRCxK1xu-KzICoN-UUQ9aq2662q3y-1S9RbuhvFd8NyUb-V2t1eE2X60Ud_DEqVEjZsX3L6X8sBvlRhxck0DZWxtiD_FRMWQ5AA_EAJ-9UbCIazVJOpPgieRda/s1600/PoMM+Border.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1600" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCa4MOtZ2gx6lGRIhKugRCxK1xu-KzICoN-UUQ9aq2662q3y-1S9RbuhvFd8NyUb-V2t1eE2X60Ud_DEqVEjZsX3L6X8sBvlRhxck0DZWxtiD_FRMWQ5AA_EAJ-9UbCIazVJOpPgieRda/s320/PoMM+Border.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: purple;">Background</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Principles of Moorland Management (PoMM) project is funded by SNH and seeks to develop guidance with a practitioner focus. It avoids re-inventing guidance that is already available but aims to draw all the information that relates to a particular topic together in one place. Input from people with specialist knowledge who are not members of the Moorland Forum is encouraged to make sure that the guidance is as representative as possible of all views. The Moorland forum will be responsible for reviewing any guidance that is published through PoMM on a regular basis so that the guidance is kept up to date.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: purple;">Current Topics</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The plan was for topics to be kept light and to link to other information wherever possible so that we could achieve a quick turn round between starting to prepare the guidance and then publishing it. The in-built ability within PoMM to refine the guidance after publication would allow the guidance to be refined and improved.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This laudable objective has not been achieved in practice. However, we are now close to the publication of the guidance on three topics:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Worm Control in Grouse</li>
<li>Heather Cutting</li>
<li>Mountain Hare</li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The guidance for these topics has been made available for Forum members to review in advance of the discussion that will take place during the postponed Forum meeting on 23rd March. Being an optimist, I am anticipating publication soon afterwards.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: purple;">Future Topics</span></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Having got the first three topics to the point of publication, I am now looking for topics for the next phase of work. Current proposals include: </div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Input to the development of a Trapping Code of Practice by SNH</li>
<li>Sheep Tick Control</li>
<li>Management for Waders</li>
<li>Monitoring of Mountain Hare populations</li>
<li>Fire Danger Warning System</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><span style="color: purple;">Suggestions</span></b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My question to everyone with an interest in the Scottish uplands is what other topics should PoMM be providing guidance for? The guidance need not be long and involved; it could be as simple as a side or two of bullet points that provide a summary of the key issues and links to other guidance, reports or information. I see this sort of guidance being prepared by someone who has specialist knowledge of a topic, who might already have prepared more detailed information. The PoMM guidance could be seen as a way to promote the report or other information to a wider audience.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Longer more detailed guidance can be prepared, but I would welcome suggestions for some 'quick-wins' as well.</div>
</div>
</div>
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<b><span style="color: purple;">Funding</span></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The PoMM project has funding and provided any proposals meet the requirement of the PoMM Steering Group, funding may be allocated to support the preparation of more guidance.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<br />
<br />Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-90471987500048683442018-02-21T13:04:00.001+00:002018-02-21T13:04:52.125+00:00SRUC: Remote Data Capture in the Uplands<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtFtiWEw02boNNnvpiW9oBNjns5gh4JaRjz3d_aoUQEWE_rnSBpgeTisU6U0pOKDvUzOPEgtTR6Bkr_d5nfBT0QPTqft4jJ9WM36piMoDtuuwe5k5XF5wkvCwSOVV0J9K_E8vpyeRNBFv8/s1600/Screenshot+2018-02-21+12.25.17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="1150" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtFtiWEw02boNNnvpiW9oBNjns5gh4JaRjz3d_aoUQEWE_rnSBpgeTisU6U0pOKDvUzOPEgtTR6Bkr_d5nfBT0QPTqft4jJ9WM36piMoDtuuwe5k5XF5wkvCwSOVV0J9K_E8vpyeRNBFv8/s400/Screenshot+2018-02-21+12.25.17.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hill & Mountain Research Centre. Photo:SRUC</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<div>
SRUC is trialling a remote data capture system at the Hill & Mountain Research Centre at Kirkton, near Crianlarich.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Davy McCracken is looking for thoughts on what sort of data obtained by sensors, either fitted to animals or in the environment, would be useful to help inform any management decisions in remote upland areas. The presentation provides some background (see below). The type of data collected is the type that can be transmitted in small packets (i.e. not streaming of videos etc) over a radio frequency network.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Technology exists to build sensors but it is not clear what type of data, and hence sensors, would be useful to upland land managers. Davy is trying to pull together thoughts on uses to inform discussions and any thoughts will be appreciated. It does not matter whether a sensor exists or not, as the point is to think outside the box to identify the type of data it would be useful to obtain, which currently may be difficult (or impossible) to gather.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Note that the ‘masts’ are only about 1m long and they cost c. £1K, or less, to buy. Each mast can form a 10 mile radius radio network in rural areas and theoretically can take data from 10,000 sensors! So it is possible to think in terms of an array of sensors and not be confined to single sensors located at single points</div>
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Davy cannot be at the Forum meeting on 2 March, but he will be happy to speak to anyone who would like further information.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The presentation about this is on the <a href="http://www.moorlandforum.org.uk/briefings" target="_blank">Briefings page</a> of the Forum's website, along with a form to use to provide a guide to the information that Davy is seeking. Please contact Davy direct, or forward any e-mail traffic to the <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-57358293039072832412018-02-20T12:38:00.002+00:002018-02-20T12:38:31.648+00:00Chairman's Working Group Meeting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s1600/MF+Logo+large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="66" data-original-width="430" height="49" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s320/MF+Logo+large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Chairman's Working Group met on 9 February, with thanks to BASC for hosting the meeting at Trochry, for providing lunch and a very nice cake!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These meetings are held in advance of each Forum meeting and allow an opportunity to plan for the following meeting and to discuss other issues of interest to Forum members in a smaller group.</div>
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I have summarised the agenda for the meeting below:</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Programme for Delivery<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Uplands Vision<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Taking the Uplands to Government<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Agenda for Forum meeting 2</span><span style="font-size: 12.222222328186035px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">March</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Summer Meeting<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Recent Activity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> WfW, PoMM, Muirburn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Succession Task Group<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--><div style="text-align: justify;">
There was support for the programme proposals that had come out of the <a href="http://moorlandforum.blogspot.co.uk/2018/02/programme-for-delivery-2018.html" target="_blank">Programme for Delivery discussion</a>, most notably the view that the Forum should consider developing some form of 'uplands vision' perhaps with a focus on challenges & opportunities. This will be discussed further on 2 March.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There was support for the suggestion that the summer visit, which had previously been proposed to take place in Galloway, should include a discussion about the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere. Proposals will be developed for discussion at the Forum meeting.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The PoMM Guidance covering Mountain Hare, Heather Cutting and Worm Control will be circulated to forum meetings with a view to being in a position to agree to publish this after the meeting.</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-22033617325585749112018-02-20T01:18:00.000+00:002018-02-20T01:18:28.361+00:00Programme for Delivery 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s1600/MF+Logo+large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="66" data-original-width="430" height="49" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s320/MF+Logo+large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Forum's Programme for Delivery (PfD) is updated annually to make sure that it reflects the issues that Forum members want to address.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This year Julia Stoddart (SACS), Richard Luxmoore (NTS) and Alex Hogg (SGA) volunteered to provide some input to the review. The SGA had submitted some proposals for issues to consider; Ronnie Kippen and Kenneth Stephen joined the discussion to address these.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In addition to a calendar of events, the PfD seeks to identify Priority Issues for the Forum to address during the year. It also provides a reminder of the standing commitments that the Forum has, for example, to support the Scottish Wildfire Forum.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is not possible for the Forum to address all the issues that are raised for consideration. The PfD provides a record of these issues and each year the review considers these alongside any new issues that are raised.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finally, the PfD provides a record of the issues that have been completed or that will not be considered further.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The latest version of the Programme for Deliver is on the <a href="http://www.moorlandforum.org.uk/documents" target="_blank">Forum's website</a>.</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-298778045264892132018-02-19T14:23:00.001+00:002018-02-19T14:23:21.179+00:00Scotland's Moorland Forum: Searching for a New Chairman <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s1600/MF+Logo+large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="66" data-original-width="430" height="49" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq1-lovR1SafW02bWNi5GRWZzenxPph6XdnT5_LKUT40v4R2plSvRu8ZoOXC-eShISytHifp9F_CWmSxxho2JL5cPxOt3YpPS17VIjCPNcaW48rxLQzJBtmw2COuNFLb6rHexBXTmWLA0/s320/MF+Logo+large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lord Lindsay has been chairman of the Moorland Forum since November 2007, but he has indicated that it is time to find someone to replace him in this role.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There is no deadline for the appointment of a successor, although there is a general view that succession should take place before the end of 2018.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A Succession Task Group has agreed a Role Profile for a new chairman, and with this agreed, it will be possible to move quickly to appoint a successor, before being snapped up for another role. The process to be followed for the appointment will be agreed with the Succession Task Group and will depend on the number of candidates that are thought to be suitable.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Task Group will meet again on 2nd March, after the next Forum meeting, to consider any candidates that have been put forward. If the Task Group believes that a suitable candidate has been nominated, a decision may be made at that meeting to consider the candidate as a possible successor. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Prior to 2nd March, suggestions for suitable candidates will be welcome from members of the Succession Task Group, members of the Moorland Forum, or from anyone who would like to nominate somebody as a suitable candidate for the role.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Please could initial contact been made with Anne Stoddart using the contact form on the <a href="http://www.moorlandforum.org.uk/contact-us" target="_blank">Forum's website</a> or the comment facility below.</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-57275438486411229682018-02-08T01:46:00.000+00:002018-02-08T01:46:13.077+00:00Forestry in Scotland: New administrative arrangements<i>This is the text of a note circulated to Confor members by Jamie Farquhar (Confor - National Manager for Scotland). He has kindly agreed that I may repeat the text in this Blog to provide a pointer to the important changes that are being introduced.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4ra_BduUmfitCuCYbUEmdQV6dogGMFVGE0dVa7Y7uHCqpUQ3PsIUPRSUxInaM33XLCw3cxaB8z0XrIxHO3NPnNue0M3Q-84w_xh3qhmzP5ZQFjJ1lE6UCxofJit8EIYfD1PjE2acoUAM/s1600/Screenshot+2018-02-08+01.43.56.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="290" data-original-width="478" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4ra_BduUmfitCuCYbUEmdQV6dogGMFVGE0dVa7Y7uHCqpUQ3PsIUPRSUxInaM33XLCw3cxaB8z0XrIxHO3NPnNue0M3Q-84w_xh3qhmzP5ZQFjJ1lE6UCxofJit8EIYfD1PjE2acoUAM/s400/Screenshot+2018-02-08+01.43.56.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">On 5 February 2018, the Scottish Government issued a statement setting out how the Scottish Government will manage and administer its forestry responsibilities when the devolution of forestry in Scotland is completed.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Government has responded to Confor’s requests for clarity on how it will protect and promote forestry expertise in future arrangements, while enabling forestry to be at the heart of future policy making across important areas like rural policy and climate change.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Confor had proposed that the division regulating forestry within the Scottish Government be given the title ‘Scottish Forestry Service’ or similar and that the post of Chief Forester, which we successfully championed, be the head of the division with a clear role to promote professionalism and continuing professional development. We also asked for clarity and confirmation, again, that staff in the division, and the land management agency, would be encouraged to spend time working in the other body, and in the private sector.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Scottish Government’s statement addresses all these points. The full statement, including a diagram of the old and new structures, can be read <a href="http://www.parliament.scot/S5_Rural/20180205_Cab_Sec_REC_-_Forestry_Bill_-_manage_and_administer_its_forestry_responsibilties..pdf">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another important aspect of the arrangements is that Forestry and Land Scotland, which will manage the National Forest Estate, will remain a public corporation just as Forest Enterprise Scotland is at present. This is essential to ensure the financial flexibility to manage its forests professionally and commercially.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosbNaCwA5GvCHodcVAujmoI1vmlrbirMx96OBtH9Vi_Es32fvXY46Ek_yYFFHnaTpNj7Gg2ybh_vdFobrkjwNz3TgxFXxQLbVDhngmS6hXRp-7o3XFjnouoSsUXVrG5VaWnfrQ01eH5tb/s1600/130316+Confor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="87" data-original-width="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosbNaCwA5GvCHodcVAujmoI1vmlrbirMx96OBtH9Vi_Es32fvXY46Ek_yYFFHnaTpNj7Gg2ybh_vdFobrkjwNz3TgxFXxQLbVDhngmS6hXRp-7o3XFjnouoSsUXVrG5VaWnfrQ01eH5tb/s1600/130316+Confor.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-32729274875746681212018-02-08T01:33:00.001+00:002018-02-08T01:33:40.223+00:00Grouse Moor Management Group - Report from the first meeting<i>Professor Alan Werritty has provided this report from the first meeting of this Group.</i><div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4d6XxHCib2KetE2hlgsVJbumeNk3wQwg4pM_hc4RGjD2fynyEZfHPAlyPKIySk5VAFBFtT4icZECqUEZXIs52PzhNUnz5H4ANS75BNBIP6bGx9sQ8HXZNkSJvN2AhUvsDhEIHZg4I_fK/s1600/Cock+Red+Grouse_Adam+Smith++2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4d6XxHCib2KetE2hlgsVJbumeNk3wQwg4pM_hc4RGjD2fynyEZfHPAlyPKIySk5VAFBFtT4icZECqUEZXIs52PzhNUnz5H4ANS75BNBIP6bGx9sQ8HXZNkSJvN2AhUvsDhEIHZg4I_fK/s320/Cock+Red+Grouse_Adam+Smith++2011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: Adam Smith</span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Grouse Moor Management Group held its first meeting on 16th January at the Royal Society of Edinburgh. At that meeting, the Chair (Alan Werritty) outlined the background and context for the Group noting the Cabinet Secretary’s statement on 31 May 2017, following the publication of the 2017 SNH Commissioned Report: <i>Analyses of the fates of satellite tracked golden eagles in Scotland</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: purple;">Terms of Reference</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The following Terms of Reference for the Group were agreed:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The Group will examine how to ensure that grouse moor management continues to contribute to the rural economy while being environmentally sustainable and compliant with the law. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The Group will recommend options for regulation including licensing and other measures, which could be put in place without new primary legislation.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was noted that the Cabinet Secretary has also commissioned a socio-economic study to be undertaken in parallel with the work of the Group, with interim findings made available later in the year.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<b><div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: purple;">Framework</span></b></div>
</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In addition to identifying a schedule for meetings, the Group agreed the following framework:</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: purple;">January to July 2018: gathering evidence and identifying key issues</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Meeting 2.</b> Evidence 1 (Environmental law relevant to grouse moors, current licensing systems and Codes of Practice, wildlife crime) </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Meeting 3.</b> Evidence 2 (Predation/raptors and mountain hares) </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Meeting 4.</b> Evidence 3 (Muirburn and medicated grit, call for written evidence) </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: purple;">September to December: written and oral evidence, visit to estate(s), socio-economics</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Meeting 5.</b> Written evidence reviewed and oral evidence from key stakeholders </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Meeting 6.</b> Visit to grouse shooting estate(s) </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Meeting 7.</b> Review input from socio-economic study </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: purple;">January to March 2019: drafting report and recommendations</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Meeting 8.</b> Review evidence and initial drafting of report and recommendations</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Meeting 9.</b> Finalise report and recommendations.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Presentations were given by Specialist Advisers to the Group:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<ul>
<li>Adam Smith (GWCT): <i>Grouse moors and their management: an introduction</i>, </li>
<li>Ben Ross (SNH) <i>Current regulatory system governing grouse moor management, </i>and </li>
<li>Des Thompson (SNH) <i>Raptor persecution and driven grouse moors</i>.</li>
</ul>
</div>
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Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-61139557493815351952018-01-30T09:27:00.002+00:002018-01-30T13:50:33.841+00:00Mountain Hare Survey returns after 10-year absence<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYw6g2Qf09EdwXdfqRwaagvfVaP3gWEYyYK7eUxJTFBV1M0YCEcR065C682kER28oKe5m0-vWEYO4z55GuLnNeoUZCenUYB-BUtAeW61mAqGbPVaAt-8vpLTwPgfEJjYoEfJgwoicbwajb/s1600/Screenshot+2018-01-30+09.22.06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="508" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYw6g2Qf09EdwXdfqRwaagvfVaP3gWEYyYK7eUxJTFBV1M0YCEcR065C682kER28oKe5m0-vWEYO4z55GuLnNeoUZCenUYB-BUtAeW61mAqGbPVaAt-8vpLTwPgfEJjYoEfJgwoicbwajb/s320/Screenshot+2018-01-30+09.22.06.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo: GWCT</span></td></tr>
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After a ten-year absence, the Game and & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) has announced that their Scottish Mountain Hare Survey is making a return. This follows the recent announcement about the agreed counting methodology.<br />
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Scottish Gamekeepers Association and Scottish Land & Estates will be asking their Scottish members to take part in a questionnaire-based survey.<br />
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See the <a href="https://www.gwct.org.uk/news/news/2018/january/mountain-hare-survey-returns-after-10-year-absence/?utm_source=All+Contacts&utm_campaign=18c9f7d2bf-MB300118&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_dd843c5cb6-18c9f7d2bf-21860951&goal=0_dd843c5cb6-18c9f7d2bf-21860951&mc_cid=18c9f7d2bf&mc_eid=d7494e071f" target="_blank">full article</a>.<br />
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Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-6658815436221878192018-01-27T10:57:00.000+00:002018-01-27T10:57:38.195+00:00Sustainability of Driven Grouse Moors<br />
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<i>This is the announcement that was published by the Scottish Government on 24 November 2017. I have edited this slightly to highlight the key sections. The membership of the Group may be of particular interest to Forum members. Adam Smith has input to the Group as one of the specialist advisers. </i></div>
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Membership of an independent group to ensure grouse moor management practices are sustainable and legally compliant has been confirmed.</div>
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The new group will be led by <b><span style="color: purple;">Professor Alan Werrity</span></b>, who previously chaired a Scottish Natural Heritage review into sustainable moorland management. It includes scientists, moorland managers, regulatory experts and advisers from SNH, Scottish Wildlife Trust, the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust and the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency.</div>
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The group has been set up in response to SNH research that found almost a third of golden eagles being tracked by satellite died in suspicious circumstances and that the majority of cases were where land is intensively managed for driven grouse shooting.</div>
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The group will look at the environmental impact of grouse moor management practices such as muirburn, the use of medicated grit and mountain hare culls and advise on the option of licensing grouse shooting businesses.</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><b>Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said:</b></span></div>
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“We have been clear that the continued killing of protected species of birds of prey damages the reputation of law-abiding gamekeepers, landowners and the country as a whole.</div>
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“This new group will look at what we can do to balance our commitment to tackling wildlife crime with grouse moor management practices, so it continues to contribute to our rural economy, while being sustainable and compliant with the law.</div>
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“The group membership reflects the complex nature and wide range of issues that need to be considered and I look forward to hearing their advice in due course.”</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><b>Professor Werrity said:</b></span></div>
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“This is truly challenging work given the traditions underlying moorland management and the concerns coming to light over some mal-practices. </div>
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“My earlier work chairing the SNH Moorland review also sought to reconcile nature conservation interests with promoting the rural economy. I will be taking an evidence-based approach, and for this we have the right mixture of experience, expertise and knowledge on the group to get to grips with the subject. I look forward to getting started on this review. ”</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><b>Background</b></span></div>
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Read in the <a href="https://news.gov.scot/news/golden-eagle-deaths">birds of prey report</a>.</div>
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<b><span style="color: purple;">Group Membership</span></b></div>
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The confirmed membership of the group includes:</div>
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<span style="color: purple;">Scientists</span></div>
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Professor Ian Newton, Professor Alison Hester, and Professor Colin Reid </div>
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<span style="color: purple;">Moorland Managers </span></div>
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Alexander Jameson BLE MRICS FAAV and Mark Oddy MRICS CEnV MIAagrM. </div>
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<span style="color: purple;">Specialist advisers to the group</span></div>
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Dr Calum Macdonald, SEPA; Professor Des Thompson, SNH; Dr Adam Smith, Director Scotland GWCT; and Susan Davies, SWT.</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-47480323899577468942017-07-14T14:34:00.001+01:002017-07-14T14:35:07.330+01:00Soil Association Events - 26 July & 7 August <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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The Soil Association Scotland is hosting a range of events for farmers, growers and crofters across Scotland.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.soilassociation.org/news/2017/may/25/buzzing-about-grassland/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="228" data-original-width="900" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGixylY3LLRO1ykQaC7dOLLlDKAbBJunw3Qw9uSfdVRGUfAOI7YlMT5yla18WcB0rVi33S7ZFpXZoImgwKKmBGenq_E20y2LXnPovR6Dh5msa-DvJv1tZvUi-qYE2CvgAFTYjUMfiRH9np/s400/Buzzing+About+Grassland.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Buzzing About Grassland</i> (Caithness, 26th July) will look at how we can better utilise species rich grassland meadows and what revenue is available for managing them. </div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.soilassociation.org/news/2017/july/03/for-peats-sake/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="228" data-original-width="900" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0V2qraexgpExA_nYBOw53Wbsg1eP7IZY5ywjbicX2c1fJykjACYsVf8Wbgl-Y98Sq5GHJ9zArvDxfzYQTOPbvzASCK4qG3UXN-5J-j4IYlXPbWH4SB0uLYlhRVqKwcikHreeNhua0X4KE/s400/For+Peat%2527s+Sake.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>For Peat’s Sake</i> (West Linton, 7th August) will look at the opportunities peatland restoration may offer to farmers and how that impacts farming and upland grazing. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These events are free to farmers, foresters and land managers. Book online, or call Jane on 0131 666 2474.<br />
<a href="mailto:jdingwall@soilassociation.org"><br /></a>
<a href="mailto:jdingwall@soilassociation.org"><br /></a>
<a href="mailto:jdingwall@soilassociation.org"><br /></a></div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-77154250487125395902017-06-14T10:19:00.001+01:002018-01-27T11:33:13.838+00:00Keeping up-to-date with snaring<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0041/00412984.pdf" target="_blank"><img alt=" Snaring in Scotland" border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="341" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdAwWITtPBBmuOIk9_u5dtWzTwc5brIPkvtn5BcnvanNcnaAuMN4dUbfnTn1qBzcKz3KupbuYii8aVT8UjeD5ExzClSeNMTH1sGPlazqTAvF-YCTPcuGBEDSUpkiapSa68Q3EkNMziwbW/s400/Screenshot+2017-06-14+10.09.32.png" title="Snaring in Scotland" width="202" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Reprinted from the GWCT members' magazine 'Gamewise' by kind permission of GWCT. www.gwct.org.uk/scotland</i><br />
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>I would welcome contributions to this blog covering topics that will be of general interest to a range of Forum members.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-font-width: 95%;">T</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt;">he report to Scottish Government by
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) on the use of snares in Scotland was published
in March. This meets the requirement for the regulation of snaring to be
reviewed every five years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt;">The main thrust of the report is that
current legislation is working and that no fundamental <span style="letter-spacing: -.35pt;">changes are needed. However, SNH does recommend some changes with
regard to fox snares and to the Code of Practice. These proposals are as
follows:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hardware<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.5pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Require each snare to have at least two
swivels — this follows the findings of research by Defra and the GWCT to
further minimise risk of a snare breaking should a single swivel become clogged
with vegetation with resulting welfare issues.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Require the stop position,
which determines the minimum noose size, to be 26 cm from the running eye —
this follows research by the GWCT to identify the optimal stop distance whereby
hares are more likely to escape while not affecting the retention of foxes.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.35pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.35pt; text-indent: -18pt;">These hardware changes would bring
Scottish snaring practice in line with the recently published Codes of Practice
in England and Wales (2016).</span><span style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt; text-align: justify;"> </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt;">Other proposals in
the report include: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt;">Training</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.35pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Standardising attendance methods and </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.45pt; text-indent: -18pt;">'pass'
criteria.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: 0.1pt;">Code of Practice</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.35pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Clarifying
authority and responsibility where another person is required </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; text-indent: -18pt;">to
provide 'sick cover' for the </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">original operator.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt;">Record-keeping </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Implementing a maximum period for updating
snare records — SNH is proposing within 48 hours.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Reducing the time allowed to produce snare
records for inspection. This currently allows 21 days, but the proposal is to
reduce this to 'immediately' when requested by police on location, or otherwise
to be produced at a police station within seven days.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: 0.1pt;">Penalties on conviction of an offence </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Introduction of the power of disqualification for a snaring
offence, </span><span style="color: #111d0a; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt; text-indent: -18pt;">although it is not clear how this
would operate, how long disqualification would last, or whether there would be
a system of appeal.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Overall, the report found that snaring related incidents had reduced and therefore further changes were not required. Any changes to come from the review will be delivered through the Snaring Code of Practice.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next steps are likely to include consultation with the Snaring Technical Assessment Group (TAG) and possibly wider public consultation.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Changes to fox snares, such as the introduction of a double swivel and change to stop position, will require amendments to the Wildlife and Countryside Act, which could take time.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We do have concerns over the sanctions being proposed and these will need careful discussion and consultation. It would certainly be wrong if very minor mistakes, as opposed to blatant abuses of the Code, could result in disqualification. We will need to wait and see the detail.</div>
</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-75281932049614424242017-03-16T13:37:00.004+00:002018-01-27T11:31:38.258+00:00Working for Waders<span style="text-align: justify;">This is a working title for an initiative that is developing to follow the Understanding Predation project. To help develop the concept, one or more workshops are being proposed in early May to gather views from as many people as possible about the sort of initiative that would match the range of different aspirations amongst stakeholders.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A <a href="http://www.moorlandforum.org.uk/working-for-waders" target="_blank">save-the-date notification</a> has been placed on the Moorland Forum website and anyone with an interest in the potential of this work is invited to indicate which of the three workshops they would like to attend. A decision about which workshop to run will be made in response to demand - please complete all the workshops you will be able to attend.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-87850436683220968372017-03-15T22:34:00.001+00:002017-03-15T22:36:09.735+00:00Peatland ACTION re-launch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGv1vC_e7kd1eMbyk5zEQZ-_tAxf5Tc4qOlGfQ8mwvxckiX8m2TgFesuPLRCWbK-G_MaPyMj9AWKbJ5yasYHSZZ073I9ixHv1vWdEOAULSJFpn0H5z8cZy_UxzMChRvIBaJrWnl8AJT_9Y/s1600/Screenshot+2017-03-15+22.22.43.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGv1vC_e7kd1eMbyk5zEQZ-_tAxf5Tc4qOlGfQ8mwvxckiX8m2TgFesuPLRCWbK-G_MaPyMj9AWKbJ5yasYHSZZ073I9ixHv1vWdEOAULSJFpn0H5z8cZy_UxzMChRvIBaJrWnl8AJT_9Y/s320/Screenshot+2017-03-15+22.22.43.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change & Land Reform, Roseanna Cunningham MSP, has re-launched the Peatland ACTION project.<br />
<br />
The Peatland ACTION fund received a further £8 million from the Scottish Government, in January. The investment allows the Peatland Action Fund, which is administered by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), to continue working with its partners and restore a further 8,000 hectares of this precious peatland habitat in Scotland, during 2017/18.<br />
<br />
The fund is open for applications on 1st April but the project team would like to hear about proposed projects now. Updated application requirements and guidance are available from the <a href="http://www.snh.gov.uk/peatlandaction" target="_blank">Project webpage</a>.<br />
<br />
In this phase of the project, there is an emphasis on extending the geographical reach to the Western Isles, and for further contractor training. More information will be become available in due course through updates on the project's webpages and posts on social media accounts: @SNH_Tweets and @ScottishNaturalHeritage<br />
<br />
The Scottish Government has issued a <a href="http://news.gov.scot/news/action-on-climate-change">press release</a>.<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-39276964">BBC News article</a> includes a video clip with the voice-over provided by Andrew McBride, the Peatland ACTION Project Manager.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-465313900651005052017-02-23T15:47:00.004+00:002017-02-23T15:51:33.508+00:00Conference: Newcastle, 17 March - Identifying the opportunities for and threats to the British Uplands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyAnodEB9jK3fSxEfMjhtVhb4BGIgGro0yTbEq9svpRXJuFdrRgVxThcUtWJIkA2AQaoDi2gnWCRPS_cjegEWJpAK8h_rAg8VUews_MqBS1onMvC1qldwZJ0bXC5v9DWZi6ZB94GqzbagL/s1600/northumberland-national-park-710x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyAnodEB9jK3fSxEfMjhtVhb4BGIgGro0yTbEq9svpRXJuFdrRgVxThcUtWJIkA2AQaoDi2gnWCRPS_cjegEWJpAK8h_rAg8VUews_MqBS1onMvC1qldwZJ0bXC5v9DWZi6ZB94GqzbagL/s320/northumberland-national-park-710x533.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The full title of the conference is: "<i>Identifying the opportunities for and threats to the British Uplands: what are the policy and research priorities?". </i><a href="http://www.britishecologicalsociety.org/event/workshop-identifying-opportunities-threats-british-uplands-policy-research-priorities/" target="_blank">More information</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
Key aims are to:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Facilitate an evidence-based discussion on the future of the British uplands in what can be a contentious policy and management topic;</li>
<li>Establish the viewpoints of important stakeholders regarding the future of the uplands post-Brexit;</li>
<li>Identify the top policy and research questions by collecting data through facilitated discussion and to determine where there is consensus; and</li>
<li>Use the workshop data to guide future BES policy work in the British uplands (potentially a first publication immediately post-workshop), and to consider a future event.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Lead organisers: </div>
<div>
Darren Evans (Newcastle University), Des Thompson (Scottish Natural Heritage), Jamie Newbold (Aberystwyth University), Davy McCracken (Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC).</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-7888604782682047612017-02-20T21:09:00.001+00:002017-02-20T21:09:27.101+00:00This Valentine’s Day, love your bog…<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXQlVw-1F53wNyGiBuPjSH5EWgfFpUvUOuzxAO_bHQ94APRmaGPQkGHjTRE58WrAirz7R9ghxOtMnd_XL-ZuVHlHzqn8-UIuiMYn9y9_3g-h00vIhwhUbyCPWfWMGqlwR83GIX73inW9g/s1600/170220+Peatland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXQlVw-1F53wNyGiBuPjSH5EWgfFpUvUOuzxAO_bHQ94APRmaGPQkGHjTRE58WrAirz7R9ghxOtMnd_XL-ZuVHlHzqn8-UIuiMYn9y9_3g-h00vIhwhUbyCPWfWMGqlwR83GIX73inW9g/s400/170220+Peatland.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo: Scottish Land & Estates</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
See the <a href="http://www.scottishlandandestates.co.uk/blog/this-valentines-day-love-your-bog/#comment-1190" target="_blank">blog post</a> by Anne Gray of Scottish Land & Estates. She provides some useful background to why the appropriate management of peatland has become more important, recently.<br />
<br />
<br />Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-20194784170017804692017-02-08T16:18:00.001+00:002017-02-08T16:18:23.312+00:00Review of the Muirburn Code<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj243dZWHRSWFv55JQ0cSohvgkxQl5x-35y8Gh-fd1PZmDfAmQqwc-UoE3CoOOO9Gp-_XcUHK2p7uPDzMs-b9ZAaqbMuw6ruq0cKPpAn6pcQYwZqYsf0k6g6kidvReUF2GDFrfaVFsXhVj4/s1600/MBG+border.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj243dZWHRSWFv55JQ0cSohvgkxQl5x-35y8Gh-fd1PZmDfAmQqwc-UoE3CoOOO9Gp-_XcUHK2p7uPDzMs-b9ZAaqbMuw6ruq0cKPpAn6pcQYwZqYsf0k6g6kidvReUF2GDFrfaVFsXhVj4/s1600/MBG+border.png" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-align: center;">The latest draft of the revised Muirburn Code is being circulated widely as part of setting up the practitioners' workshops, and it is available through the <a href="http://www.muirburncode.org.uk/" target="_blank">dedicated website</a></span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">. This online version is continuing to evolve and some significant changes are likely as part of the development process.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.850000381469727px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">The first workshop took place on 7 February (Lauder) (see the report on the <a href="http://muirburncode.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Muirburn Code blog</a>) and further workshops are planned on 16 February (Skye) and 21 February (Huntly). A final workshop will take place at Battleby (Perth) on 14 march. After </span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">which a version of the code to present to the Scottish Government will be developed.</span></span></div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-14190451769478235202017-01-27T18:26:00.005+00:002017-01-27T18:26:50.839+00:00Meeting with the Director Environment and Forestry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lord Lindsay and I met Bridget Campbell, Director Environment & Forestry at Victoria Quay, this morning. Keith Connal (Deputy Director, Natural Resources Division) and Hugh Dignon were also present.<br />
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We received a valuable briefing about the issues that the two Cabinet Secretaries are dealing with and discussed how the work of the Forum can support this activity. We spent some time considering the development of the 'Working for Waders' programme of action, and this will be discussed further during the Chairman's Working Group meeting on Friday, 3 February.Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-51912074596584730032017-01-26T12:00:00.000+00:002018-01-27T11:31:38.228+00:00Working for Waders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvo7hOLG35chJ5QMB7pjJmH8JvjKSiT92R9KF1ogphYxNrqUaR9IXaR8cnpuXncVAxfWuc9sz7pQjgwOEjk_VyJS0so6J3zaA-edIuN7FKPen6Ks9-R75AJJBtKfsuH14mM-XIJ5XxUlA4/s1600/MF+Logo+large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="49" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvo7hOLG35chJ5QMB7pjJmH8JvjKSiT92R9KF1ogphYxNrqUaR9IXaR8cnpuXncVAxfWuc9sz7pQjgwOEjk_VyJS0so6J3zaA-edIuN7FKPen6Ks9-R75AJJBtKfsuH14mM-XIJ5XxUlA4/s320/MF+Logo+large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Working for Waders</i> is the working title for a programme of action that the Forum is developing to follow on from the Understanding Predation project.</div>
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This is in the very early stages, but we are aiming to develop the concept and build momentum so that a programme of action can start, as soon as possible.</div>
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A small coordination group of volunteers contributed to a conference call on 26 January to help with the thinking, so that some ideas can be put to Forum members. The concept will be discussed first at the Chairman's Working Group on 3 February, and then at the Forum meeting on 24 February. It is likely that we will be recommending that a series of workshops, possibly three, is held to capture ideas from a wide range of stakeholders, before we decide how best to address the issues.</div>
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We will welcome input to the development of this thinking from as many people as possible, but we are also aware that we want to get something started, while the messages that came from Understanding Predation are still fresh in our memories.</div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-47997839705937328302017-01-25T18:00:00.000+00:002017-01-28T09:32:10.843+00:00Muirburn Code Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As the date for completing the review and the dates of the stakeholder workshops draw closer, the review is entering its final phase and the level of activity is increasing, as a result.</div>
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For more information about the review, see the <a href="http://muirburncode.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Muirburn Code blog</a>. The latest post reflects the discussion that took place during the Steering Group meeting held on 25 January.</div>
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This is a link to the <a href="http://www.moorlandforum.org.uk/downloadfile/8263777?open=true" target="_blank">flyer for the workshops</a>, which will aim to capture views from those with experience of muirburn, including cutting.</div>
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<br />Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-80743167529544154292017-01-23T10:02:00.002+00:002017-01-23T10:02:53.575+00:00Draft Climate Change Plan & Peatland<br />
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<a href="http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0051/00513102.pdf" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQYgP14H55exZFVx0b1iko7ahAgCTLbbVIebuiANSrT4eM_bZ4ouxyIzHOIvak4Y8TGpbyZ4SdmH9MGukOuxBKgg1d2c2MX7wEQaEM9kY0ANVxF8lxDADnStbOBrHKEz5q6XMBW2dct1u/s320/Screenshot+2017-01-23+09.57.47.png" width="225" /></a></div>
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The Scottish Government has published its <a href="http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0051/00513102.pdf" target="_blank">Draft Climate Change Plan</a> and this sets out the Government's ambitions for peatland restoration. Long term funding is to be provided to deliver large-scale peatland restoration. The members of the Forum may have a role to assist with the Awareness Raising policy, outlined below.<br />
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<b>Peatland Restoration Progress</b><br />
Since 2013, through the Peatland Action Initiative, around 10,000 hectares of peatlands have been restored through Scottish Government led action, working with public and private land managers across Scotland.<br />
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<b>Ambitions for peatland</b><br />
By 2020, 50,000 hectares of degraded peatland will have been restored, from a 1990 baseline, and by 2030 we will have increased this to 250,000 hectares – an improvement of valuable soils in around 20% of Scotland’s landmass. By 2050, Scotland’s expanded peatlands will be thriving habitats, sustaining a diverse ecosystem and sequestering more carbon than ever before.<br />
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<b>Extract from the <a href="http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0051/00513102.pdf" target="_blank">Draft Climate Change Plan</a> - Section 13.4, p131</b><br />
<b>Our ambition – Peat </b><br />
13.4.3 By 2030, 40% of degraded peatland will be restored to good condition. This policy action will have considerable impact by converting peatlands from emitting carbon to acting as a carbon sink as well as reducing emissions from degraded bogs. The restored peatland will also help mitigate flood risk and improve water quality, as well as helping to increase biodiversity in restored areas.<br />
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13.4.4 As well as providing increased carbon storage, this large-scale peatland restoration delivery across Scotland will also produce multiple benefits for communities and the economy. The key sectors expected to see benefits are tourism, food and drink and the environment.<br />
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13.4.5 To make progress towards this ambition, we will focus on achieving a significant increase in the scale of degraded peatland restored, from a 1990 baseline to:<br />
• 50,000 hectares restored by 2020<br />
• 250,000 hectares restored by 2030<br />
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13.4.6 Our longer term ambition is that by 2050, Scotland’s expanded peatlands will be thriving habitats, sustaining a diverse ecosystem and sequestering more carbon than ever before.<br />
Peat policy outcomes, policies, development milestones and proposals<br />
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<b>Policy outcome 1:</b> To enhance the contribution of peatland to carbon storage, we will support an increase in the annual rate of peatland restoration, from 10,000 hectares in 2017/18 to 20,000 hectares per year thereafter.<br />
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<b>Policies which contribute to the delivery of policy outcome 1 </b><br />
1) <b>Restoration grants:</b> We will provide grant funding to support eligible land managers to deliver peatland restoration. Levels of funding will enable at least 20,000 hectares of peatland restoration per year from 2018/19.<br />
2) <b>Awareness raising:</b> Working through partnership, we will put in place tools and information to develop the capacity, skills and knowledge of land managers, contractors and others, to deliver peatland restoration.<br />
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Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-60054015571776218082017-01-06T15:56:00.003+00:002017-01-06T15:56:47.573+00:00Lecture on the Mountain Hare - 19 January<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lecture on the Mountain Hare - 19 January</div>
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<b>Venue: Sportsman's Club, 11 Queen's Road, Aberdeen AB15 4YL</b></div>
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This illustrated lecture, presented by Glenn Iason and Scott Newey of the James Hutton Institute in Aberdeen, will explore the natural history, food, habitat and populations of the mountain hare and the issues currently affecting it.</div>
<br /><a href="http://scottishlandandestates.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=0423741ebd2e13e5e51e17a18&id=6e3d0ea6ce&e=c03b94f167">Read more</a><div>
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(<i>Reprinted from the Scottish Land & Estates Newsletter, 6th January 2017</i>)</div>
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Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-79179745943918276502017-01-03T10:14:00.000+00:002017-01-03T10:14:27.344+00:00Roseanna Cunningham: Natural assets must be top priority<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Roseanna Cunningham is Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform. Her New Year message provides a framework for Moorland Forum activity in 2017.<div>
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She quotes Ban Ki-moon: “It is time to recognise that human capital and natural capital are every bit as important as financial capital”.</div>
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She comments that, "it is vital that we continue to develop and manage our environmental resources sustainably" and states that, "2017 promises to be highly significant for everyone who cares about our environment".</div>
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Read the full message as reported in <a href="http://www.scotsman.com/news/environment/roseanna-cunningham-natural-assets-must-be-top-priority-1-4329387?utm_source=All+Contacts&utm_campaign=60680adf4e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2016_11_15&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_dd843c5cb6-60680adf4e-21860951" target="_blank">The Scotsman</a>.</div>
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Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3619005337379475702.post-43051251032518993332016-12-22T17:40:00.000+00:002018-01-27T11:02:47.923+00:00Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009The third report on proposals and policies (RPP3 - the draft climate change plan)) is due to be published in January 2017 and Parliament has a maximum of 60 days to report on the document. Four committees of the Scottish Parliament have agreed to collaborate to consider the draft plan: <div>
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<li>The Economy, Jobs and Fair Work Committee (EJW) </li>
<li>The Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee (ECCLR) </li>
<li>The Local Government and Communities Committee (LGC) </li>
<li>The Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee (REC)</li>
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The REC has circulated an Information Pack for Stakeholders to provide more information about the process and I have placed this, together with a copy of the covering e-mail message in a <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/sh/sklsgh62323cnpr/AADqvoPsCApwWeiuTslaBZPHa?dl=0" target="_blank">Dropbox folder</a>. There is more background on the <a href="http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Environment/climatechange" target="_blank">Scottish Government website</a>.</div>
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No doubt many members of the Forum will wish to contribute to the review process independently and I propose that I keep a watching brief in case there is any input that the Forum as a whole could usefully provide. The areas that the ECCLR will consider are likely to be of most relevance to the Forum. I will welcome any suggestions from members about how the Forum could provide input.</div>
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I will be arranging a meeting for Lord Lindsay and me with the Cabinet Secretary for REC, Fergus Ewing MSP, in January and we will raise this for discussion as part of the meeting. </div>
Simon Thorphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630178961897114211noreply@blogger.com0