Further action to prevent deer damage approved
The Scottish Government has approved a compulsory deer management control scheme for an estate in Sutherland.
NatureScot’s board took the decision to pursue use of intervention powers under Section 8 of the Deer (Scotland) Act 1996 in relation to Loch Choire Estate. This is the first time a control scheme will have been used in Scotland.
The move follows the failure to get voluntary agreement to prevent damage to important habitats.
Without this agreement, NatureScot cannot be satisfied that effective deer management will be put in place to address risks of significant impact on peatlands, woodlands and other habitats in the Loch Choire area, a large proportion of which is covered by protected area designations.
This includes four Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) wholly or partly falling on the estate’s land.
A control scheme has now been approved by Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie, following the appropriate period of consultation.
Robbie Kernahan, NatureScot’s Director of Green Economy said: “Deer are an important part of our biodiversity but in high numbers they can have a negative impact on woodlands, peatlands and other habitats. Sustainable deer management is vital if we are to bring populations in balance with the rest of nature and effectively tackle the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.
“We will always favour a voluntary and collaborative approach to deer management, working in cooperation with partners towards this shared goal. However, we will use our intervention powers as a last resort in cases such as this, where despite significant efforts we have been unable to secure the required commitment and action through voluntary means.”
NatureScot
8 April 2025
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