NRN PARTNER: Laikenbuie Ecology Trust

LAIKENBUIE ECOLOGY TRUST

Location:
Nairn, Highland
Area Committed:
100 acres

Active nature recovery has been taking place at Laikenbuie since 1984. The site lies within the gentle slopes of the Laiken Glen, featuring the  Auldearn burn and a rich mosaic of native broadleaf woodland, wetland, scrub and grassland. Organic farming is practised in a few pasture fields and operates in conjunction with a wider rewilding approach across the remainder of the landholding. The site is owned and managed by an ecological charity that has responsibility for driving the restoration of ecosystem processes for the benefit of nature and the local community.

Key rewilding commitments:

  • MORE NATIVE WOODLAND: Increase structural diversity of woodlands by enrichment planting of native tree species and woodland grazing.
  • MORE SPACE FOR WATER: Increase the amount of standing water by exploring opportunities for new ponds and leaky dams.
  • JOINED UP HABITATS: Increase ecological connectivity by planting native shrub species along/ in place of existing fence lines.
  • RETURN MISSING SPECIES: Undertake enrichment planting of aspen, especially in vicinity of waterbodies.
  • REINSTATE NATURAL GRAZING: Explore opportunities for introducing native breed pigs, cattle and ponies across the site.
  • CONNECT WITH COMMUNITIES: Continue building relationships with local schools and other community groups by holding ecology learning events.