Field Notes: Fences and gates at Skye

Skye Manager John MacRae reports on the latest construction project at Strathaird.

Earlier this summer the Trust brought in a contractor to repair and rebuild the boundary fence between Strathaird freehold land and that of the Elgol, Glasnakille and Drinan common grazings. The first phase of work began in August (the photo above shows 'ranger dog' Mac inspecting the work in progress), and will be followed by the second and final phase of livestock grid installation this autumn.

The purpose is to reduce grazing pressure from domestic livestock, which will - in time - allow natural regeneration of native woodlands that are presently being suppressed by overgrazing.

Meanwhile, down the road at Keppoch, we are fitting signs to eight gates around a 300 ha site to protect a young woodland comprising 40,000 native trees from deer and sheep let in by forgetful visitors not closing gates correctly - just in time as we are carrying out a restock to replace some trees that have failed in November.

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