News
Cairngorms LBAP Update
6th May 2008
The latest version of the Cairngorms Local Biodiversity Action Plan newsletter is available to read online. So for more information and updates on LBAP projects and how to get involved or for dates of training days and events, please click here.
SPRINGWATCH 2008
30th April 2008
YOU may recognise many of the places and species featured on BBC Two's Springwatch 2008 as the popular series will include features from the Cairngorms National Park.The Springwatch team have been filming various projects in the Park over the past few months and you can find out how they got on when this year's series starts on Monday May 26th.
Wildcat Conservation in the Cairngorms
15th April 2008
Wildlife experts, land managers, tourism operators, vets and cat welfare groups are among those gathering in Aviemore today (Tuesday 15 April) for a major conference in a bid to save the Scottish wildcat from extinction. The event marks the first step in the design of a practical wildcat conservation project in the Cairngorms National Park.
There has been a significant decline in the number of Scottish wildcat over the last few decades and it is now one of our most threatened species. The Cairngorms National Park is an important stronghold for this elusive mammal and across the Park are examples of the wildcat's cultural links with the area.
Today's event is aimed at generating widespread support across a range of sectors to raise awareness of the plight of this iconic Scottish species and ultimately protect it from extinction. The conference will act as an exchange, not only of the latest scientific information but also of local, practical knowledge of wildcats and options for their conservation.
The conference is organised by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), the Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA), the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Tooth & Claw and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).
Eric Baird, vice-convener of the CNPA and chair of the conference said: "The current number of wildcats remains uncertain but we know the prognosis is not good with some estimates putting the population at a mere 400 individuals left in the wild. The biggest threat to the existence of the Scottish wildcat is thought to be hybridisation with feral domestic cats.
"We want to raise awareness of the plight of the Scottish wildcat and explore the implementation of a range of practical conservation actions to save this Scottish icon. We don't have all the answers at this time but today is an important first step in finding them."
From icons to ecology and from pet cats to feral cats, delegates are being asked to consider and explore all the information and tools available that could contribute to a practical wildcat conservation project
Allan Hodgson of the SGA said: "The SGA is supportive of the project and keen to be involved. Gamekeepers working on-the-ground are in a position to be able to contribute a great deal from providing information on wildcat sightings to feral cat management. We carry out feral cat control as part of our predator management activities and would suggest that keeping feral cat numbers in check contributes to a reduction in hybridisation. We could certainly work more closely with members to increase awareness of wildcat identification so there is absolutely no risk to the species."
Neutering feral cats and vaccinating them against disease, as well as the promotion of responsible domestic cat ownership is also on the conference agenda.
Jane Harley, a vet based in the Cairngorms National Park said: "I think that most people acknowledge that interbreeding is the biggest risk to wildcats but many won't have considered the serious risk to wildcats from diseases, which can be prevalent in feral cats. The feline leukaemia virus, for example, is a highly contagious cat disease which can be vaccinated against. For those domestic cat owners - who would like to play their part in protecting the wildcat - my advice is to have their pet cats neutered and ensure that all vaccinations are up-to-date."
SNH is currently carrying out the biggest wildcat survey in 20 years, aimed at charting the current health and distribution of the native population across Scotland.
Mairi Cole of SNH commented: "The Scottish wildcat is one of the species in the Species Action Framework and is under threat from both man-made and environmental pressures. SNH is supporting the Scottish Wildcat Survey to gain a better understanding of the distribution and abundance of the species across Scotland but this needs to be supported by practical management and a better awareness of its plight, to help provide the best opportunities for their future. We look forward to working closely with land managers towards this."
Dr David Hetherington, Ecology Advisor at the CNPA added: “The habitat and prey availability makes the Cairngorms National Park an important area for the Scottish wildcat. However, the wildcat is important for the Cairngorms too and people here identify with the species' wild and untameable spirit, which is why it's used as an icon by local clans, villages, groups and businesses. We hope that by working in partnership with a range of organisations and the public we can reverse the Scottish wildcat's fortunes."
Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum seeks new members
7th April 2008
Do you have a good knowledge of, and interest in, outdoor access issues? Are you a land manager or recreational user or are you interested in outdoor access in and around your community?The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) is keen to hear from volunteers who can make a positive contribution to outdoor access in the Cairngorms National Park by becoming a member of the Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum.
The role of the Forum - which comprises 21 members and meets about 5 times a year at various venues through the Park - is to provide advice to the Park Authority and others about outdoor access issues.
If you think you could make a positive contribution and would like to know more about becoming a member of the Cairngorms Forum, please contact Catriona Campbell on tel: 01479 873535 for an application form or you can visit the CNPA website.
Warm welcome for new Cairngorms Hostels website
2nd April 2008
The Cairngorms National Park can boast 19 independent hostels in the area giving travellers a wide choice of affordable places to stay. Now those wanting to use the warm and welcoming facilities of the Park's hostels need only look in one place for all the information they need with the launch of the new Cairngorms Hostels website: www.cairngormshostels.co.uk
With funding support from the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) through its Community Investment Programme totalling £4,500, the group - which has operated on an informal basis since the early 1990's - has been reconstituted and is now the only area group operating in Scotland, promoting their hostel accommodation on a collective basis.
Furthermore, due to the group's green credentials, Cairngorms Hostels has been able to adopt the Cairngorms National Park brand as its visual identity. Becoming one of the "family brands" in the Cairngorms National Park sees the Cairngorms Hostels group joining an increasing number of organisations across different sectors which are seeing the benefits of a having a coherent identity. These include the Cairngorms Farmers Market and the various Cairngorms Destination Management Organisations that have been set up already or in the process of being established.
The Cairngorms Hostel's first ever chairman is Ian Bishop of Slochd Mhor Lodge. He said: "The idea of an expanded and formally constituted body for independent hostels within the Cairngorms National Park was first discussed in May 2007. Since then it has been particularly hard work for all involved liaising closely with the Park Authority and our members to reach the position of being ready to present our organisation's new web site to the world.
"The aim of the web site must be to convince people to holiday in the Cairngorms National Park and of course to stay in our hostels. Over many years independent hostels have been changing and most now have twin rooms, family en-suite rooms, rooms for special needs and many actually run a variety courses, attracting visitors from all walks of life. Reassuringly, some hostels remain pointedly very simple whilst guaranteeing equally high standards of hospitality, giving visitors a real choice.
"We hostel owners are a passionate lot and real enthusiasts and are beginning to see the benefits that can be gained from having a new structured business approach allowing us to make the best use of the resources open to us and our visitors. I am also delighted to say that all our members are providing recognised Visit Scotland Quality Assured accommodation and service. Many have also been accredited with their Green Tourism Business Awards as well as receiving accolades from world wide publications and reviewers."
Kate Muirhead, owner of the Rucksacks hostel in Braemar added: "The Cairngorms National Park can be perceived as being Aviemore based, so at this side of the Park we do feel on 'the edge' and not in the thick of things. It is extremely important therefore for us to be included within Cairngorms Hostels and then at the very least I know I have a platform where I can air my views and concerns with like minded folk who share the same environment."
CNPA Convener David Green commented: "Hostels in the Cairngorms National Park certainly make an invaluable contribution to the Park's well deserved reputation for hospitality and good value. I warmly welcome the establishment of Cairngorms Hostels and firmly believe that by working together to market their accommodation will prove fruitful for the group.
"We want to see the Cairngorms National Park as a "Park for All" and ensuring a good range of quality, affordable accommodation is a key element of this and having all the information on hostels in the area at your fingertips certainly makes things a lot easier for people coming to visit."
Dog walkers urged to know The Code before they go!
25th March 2008
It's the Easter holidays, spring has sprung, and all over Scotland people are heading to the countryside to enjoy the great outdoors. For those of you heading outside with your dogs, please be especially considerate of wildlife and farm animals at this time of year.
Scotland is a great place for dogs and owners and walking a dog is a great way to get regular exercise; it's good for your health and your quality of life too but do remember that you and your dogs share the outdoors with others!
The Outdoor Access team at the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) are encouraging dog owners to ensure that they know how to act responsibly in the countryside by - if they haven't done so already - picking up a copy of the 'Walkies' leaflet, which tells them what the Scottish Outdoor Access Code means for them and their pooches!
Dog owners and walkers out and about in the Cairngorms National Park are being reminded that spring is an important time of year for farming interests - sheep and lambs can be injured and killed by attacks from uncontrolled dogs and in general, dogs should be kept out of fields containing young animals.
Fran Pothecary, Outdoor Access Officer at the CNPA explained: "Dogs that are not under proper control can be a real concern to others and especially those managing the land such as farmers, crofters and gamekeepers. As well as affecting the wildlife and birds that make the Cairngorms National Park such a special place there can be all sorts of problems with dogs in areas where there are spring lambs or other young farm animals.
"Our advice is to ensure your dog is close to you and make sure that it is responsive to your commands in areas where there could be vulnerable wildlife and young farm animals. If in doubt, pop your dog on a lead until you are in an area where you are sure it can cause no harm. What under 'close control' means is that your dog will respond to your commands and is kept close at heel."
Alistair MacLennan, a Strathspey farmer and member of the CNPA board added: "Some of the advice issued is aimed at the safety of walkers and their dogs' - for example, cattle can be unpredictable around dogs and can react very aggressively. If you find yourself in this situation, you should keep calm, let your dog go if it is on a lead and take the shortest route to safety."
Dog owners and walkers out and about in the Cairngorms National Park are also being reminded that spring is a particularly important time of year for breeding wildlife which is vulnerable to disturbance.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code states that: during the breeding season (usually April to July) keep your dog under close control or on a short lead in areas such as moorland, forests, grassland, loch shores and the sea shores."
The advice issued does not just apply to farmland and lowland areas, the Code also applies in mountain areas where ground nesting birds such as ptarmigan and dotterel can be found as well as red deer hinds with calves.
Cairngorm Mountain Ranger Nic Bullivant, also a member of the Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum, said: "Up on the plateau ground nesting birds can be scared off their nests by dogs, which leaves their young to die of cold, or become prey to scavengers such as ravens and foxes. We put seasonal signs up drawing peoples' attention to the problem and encourage them to play a part in looking after the birds and wildlife of the mountains."
Finally, you should always pick up your dogs faeces if you are walking in an area that is well-used by the public or where there is a risk to farming interests.
You can get more information on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code here. The 'Walkies' leaflet is widely available, however if you are unable to obtain a copy contact the CNPA on tel: 01479 873535.
Environment Minister praises partnership working in the Park
14th March 2008
The Scottish Government's Minister for the Environment, Mike Russell has said that effective partnerships are making a significant impact on helping to create a world class national park in the Cairngorms.
Speaking today (Friday 14 March) at the Cairngorms National Park Strategy Group meeting - taking place in the new Boat of Garten Community Hall - Mr Russell praised the work being carried out by all those involved in delivering the actions set out in the Cairngorms National Park Plan.
The Park Plan is a document which sets out the long-term vision for the Park (25 years) with seven priorities for action for the first five years of the Plan (2007-2012). It guides the work of all those involved in the Cairngorms.
Mr Russell said: "National Parks in Scotland have now established firm foundations to ensure that these special places are managed and cared for effectively.
"The Cairngorms National Park Authority and its partners in the public and private sector are forging a new era in Scotland's natural and cultural landscape - working together to achieve a shared vision of sustainable development and growth in our rural communities. By balancing difficult and sometimes conflicting interests they are achieving the best possible outcomes for the area.
"Sustainable development and growth is our primary strategic purpose for Scotland and National Parks have the opportunity to lead the way."
Since the launch of the Park Plan last year several areas of work have made significant progress. An effective public sector partnership effort involving Angus Council, the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry Commission Scotland is seeing the development of a new ranger base in the Angus Glens, helping towards the priority for action, 'Raising Awareness and Understanding of the Park'.
The public and private sectors have come together in a bid to achieve the actions set out in the 'Making Tourism and Business More Sustainable' priority. Various initiatives are emerging including the Cairngorms Chamber of Commerce working with members to help them achieve the necessary green credentials in order that they can use the Cairngorms National Park brand to promote the Chamber and all its members collectively.
Working with Housing Plus, a range of public sector organisations and community councils and groups, an initiative aimed at communities highlighting their own priorities for development in their area has just been completed in Grantown-on-Spey, Advie, Cromdale and Dulnain Bridge and is set to be rolled out in Moray. Working towards the priority for action, 'Making Housing Affordable and Sustainable', the 'Our Community... A Way Forward' involves residents taking the lead on local projects with a funding commitment from the agencies involved to ensure successes are built on for the future.
Convener of the CNPA, David Green said: "We are delighted that the Minister has been able to join us for the Strategy Group meeting today and especially as we are in this fantastic new community facility in Boat of Garten - itself a good example of partnership working - which in this case was led by the community and supported by a variety of public and private sector organisations.
"To truly create a world class national park takes strong and effective partnerships mixed in with a great deal of enthusiasm for getting the job done. I think we are certainly seeing that here in the Cairngorms and its credit to all of those agencies, organisations and groups involved."
New Planning Committee Convener for Park Authority
11th March 2008
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) has a new man at the helm of its planning committee. Duncan Bryden, who has served on the Park board since its inception, takes over the role from David Green.Mr Bryden from Tomatin is a self-employed rural development consultant. He was elected by his fellow board members at Friday's (7 March) planning committee meeting in Nethybridge.
David Green, who continues as convener for the Park Authority board, is now deputy planning committee convener.
Want your business to go Green?
11th March 2008
"Going Green" - it's in every newspaper and magazine you read and there's someone talking about it every time you switch on the television. So how do your green credentials stack up?
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) is working with local business associations to host a series of workshops aimed at helping tourism businesses in the Park to improve their environmental performance. These practical sessions will give tourism business operators more information on recycling, energy efficiency, and how to get green accreditation via the Green Tourism Business Scheme.
There are free events throughout the Park over the coming weeks:
- Monday 17 March: Nethy Bridge Community Centre from 2.30pm - 4.30pm & from 7.30pm - 9.30pm.
- Tuesday 18 March: Cairn Hotel, Carr-Bridge from 2.00pm - 4.30pm.
- Wednesday 19 March: Crown Estate Office, Tomintoul from 1.00pm - 4.00pm.
- Thursday 20 March: Victoria & Albert Halls, Ballater from 1.00pm - 4.00pm.
- Wednesday 26 March: Garth Hotel, Grantown-on-Spey from 1.00pm - 3.30pm.
Heather Galbraith, the CNPA's Sustainable Tourism Officer said: "There are many tourism businesses across the Park already doing a great deal towards helping create a more sustainable industry and we hope, through these events to encourage them to do even more.
"It's also a great chance for like-minded businesses to chat about the green issues that matter to them, and that increasingly matter to visitors. The issue of climate change features heavily in the National Park Plan and is something that we are taking very seriously indeed in order to achieve a more sustainable and environmentally friendly National Park."
Booking for these workshops is not essential but for more information please contact Heather on tel: 01479 870545 or email: heathergalbraith@cairngorms.co.uk
Heather Hopper back to make more trips around the Cairngorms National Park
6th March 2008
THE popular Heather Hopper bus service is back again this year - with more routes and facilities for the public to enjoy.The Heather Hopper provides the only cross-Park bus service and will run twice daily between Ballater and Grantown-on-Spey from mid-May to the end of September. The buses will be visiting more places as well, with some going to Newtonmore, Kingussie, Kincraig and Aviemore.
The 501 service is being operated jointly by Coopers Tourmaster and Stagecoach Bluebird. Cyclists will be able to use some services for the first time, as Coopers offers free cycle carriage for up to four bikes. Stagecoach Bluebird buses are adapted for easy access for all.
The Heather Hopper is now in its third year and is funded by Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), The Highland Council and Aberdeenshire Council.
The Heather Hopper will help to provide high quality opportunities for outdoor access, one of the Priorities for Action in the Cairngorms National Park Plan, which sets out the Park's short and long term future. It will also offer a more sustainable form of transport for those who want to leave their cars at home, or do not have access to a car.
In a bid to encourage tourists to use the service Cairngorms Hostels, a body representing around 20 independent hostels around the Park, will also be promoting the service.
CNPA board member and Highland Councillor, Stuart Black, said: "The Heather Hopper has proved over the past few years that it offers a much needed service. Due to its popularity we are extending the routes and facilities so more people can take advantage of this cross-Park service.
"It is important residents and visitors help to establish a sustainable Park and this excellent service is one way of doing that."
Ian Bishop, Chairman of Cairngorms Hostels, said: "Cairngorms Hostels are delighted that the Heather Hopper service is back again and pleased to see the early release of timetables and information on bicycle carriages, two important aspects for visitors."
The Heather Hopper was withdrawn in the 1990s, but was re-launched as a pilot scheme by the three partners in 2006 to meet the need for rural public transport.
Timetable information is available here. Cyclists wishing to use Coopers should book cycle carriage on 01540 673 000.
Planning Courses on offer for Park residents
25th February 2008
Residents in the Cairngorms National Park are being encouraged to attend a free workshop which has been designed to take the mystique out of the planning system.
The Planning for People workshops are being held in Ballater and Boat of Garten and are aimed at anyone with an interest in land use, planning or community regeneration.
Everything from understanding how the planning system works in the National Park and the planning role of communities, to knowing which developments need planning permission, and how best to respond to planning applications and issues are covered.
Training projects manager at the Cairngorms National Park Authority Kate Christie said: "These excellent one-day workshops are geared at helping people to make informed choices when it comes to planning. They are conveniently scheduled on a Saturday and those attending are likely to learn how to prepare higher quality planning applications which should help them save time and respond more effectively."
The workshops are being supported and funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority and Planning Aid for Scotland - a national charity that provides free and independent information, advice and training on all aspects of town and country planning.
"The Planning Aid for Scotland volunteers who will deliver the courses are all professionally qualified town planners. Members of the CNPA's planning team will also be on hand to provide information on local planning perspectives," said Kate.
Planning for People is being provided through the Cairngorms Awareness and Pride project which aims to give local residents an increased understanding of the aims of the National Park through a range of free courses.
The Planning for People workshops are being held in Boat of Garten Community Hall on Saturday 1st March and at the Glen Lui Hotel, Ballater on Saturday 8th March between 9.30am and 3.30pm. To book a place or for further information on other courses coming up in 2008 contact Kate Christie or Sam Masson on 01479 870535/537 or email katechristie@cairngorms.co.uk or sammasson@cairngorms.co.uk
Farms in the Cairngorms National Park get help to go green
4th February 2008
FARMS in the Cairngorms National Park are being given help to go green thanks to free carbon footprint audits.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) and Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society (SAOS) have teamed up to launch the pilot Green Farm Project, which will audit farms and local food producers to determine their carbon emission levels and help develop a lower carbon economy in the National Park. A guide will also be produced for farmers which will offer practical advice on how to make their businesses more viable.
The project will assist in helping the businesses adapt to government policy relating to climate change and to maximise any business potential.
It is the first project of its kind in the Park and it is hoped up to 16 farms and four local food producers will take part. Farmers, land-owners and producers around the Park are now being invited to apply.
The Scottish Government estimates that agriculture contributes approximately 12 per cent of the total greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland. Partners working in the National Park have agreed that action is needed at a local level to help reduce this figure and meet government targets on emissions reduction.
The project aims to:
- Raise awareness and encourage participation amongst the agriculture community on action on climate change;
- Provide support for farmers and land managers on how to reduce their carbon footprint and
- Reduce their waste and costs and identify opportunities for the increased use of 'green' products.
Jim Booth, from SAOS, said: "Carbon footprints and its management could have a major impact on agriculture. It is therefore important farmers and landowners are aware of all the issues and understand how greenhouse gas emissions occur on their farms. The good news is that by improving carbon efficiency, farmers will also improve their bottom line."
Eleanor Mackintosh, a CNPA board member, said: "There is a need to reduce the level of greenhouse gas emissions within the agricultural sector, but land owners and farmers must be given support to do this. Green Farm is an exciting project which will demonstrate to farmers how greening their farm can help towards a more financially viable business while contributing to reducing the Park's carbon footprint.
"The CNPA is pleased to be working with SOAS on this project and we would encourage farmers and local food producers to apply."
The Green Farm will also assist participants with their applications under the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP), which offers support for economic, environmental and social projects and work in rural communities between 2008 and 2013, as one its outcomes is adapting to and mitigating against climate change.
A seminar will also be held later this year when the findings of the audits will be discussed and participants will be able to meet with experts to look at how they can reduce their carbon emission levels.
For more information or to take part in a free audit contact: Fiona Chalmers, CNPA, on 01479 870524 / fionachalmers@cairngorms.co.uk or Jim Booth, SOAS, on 01651 843 607 Jim@saos.co.uk
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