Integrating hill sheep production and newly established native woodland: achieving sustainability through multiple land use in Scotland

• DOI: 10.3763/ijas.2007.0248
• Publication Date: 2008-06-09T10:20:20Z
• Authors: C. Morgan-Davies; A. Waterhouse; M. L. Pollock; J. P. Holland
• Keywords: Fencing; Amenity; Public land; Afforestation

Abstract A novel system combining hill sheep production with native woodland creation has been established in a Scottish mountain valley. This involved implementing an off-wintering regime for Blackface ewe flock, fencing approximately one-quarter of the valley, and planting trees within fenced area. Comparisons between initial bio-economical modelling results actual monitored data over five years were made, to assess potential success such combined terms flock economics, local labour, establishment vegetation bird impacts. Participative research public benefits (including biodiversity) uptake by industry was also carried out. Results showed that exception slow rate establishment, exceeded predictions, especially where returns 20% more than predicted. The very supportive approach (78% 68% them respectively). It could be argued there is fully integrate future grazing increased use recreation amenity, providing evidence multiple land viable one upland areas. Keywords: sheepintegrationland usemultiple objectivesnative