NRN PARTNER: Tombane

TOMBANE

Location:
Logerait, Tayside
Area Committed:
219 acres

Tombane occupies a dramatic south-facing site on high ground overlooking the confluence of the Tay and Tummel rivers. Extensive juniper stands and ‘granny’ Scots pines, together with bracken and heather define the upper slopes – an isolated remnant of Scotland’s ancient forest habitat. The mid-level land is dominated by birch and oak woodland and a conifer plantation, and the lower ground is pastoral grassland. The presence of the rare Northern Damselfly in mires on the site has resulted in designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Key rewilding commitments:

  • MORE NATIVE WOODLAND: Improve woodland habitat by removing non-native sitka and reducing deer pressure
  • MORE SPACE FOR WATER: Create new wetlands on higher ground and series of smaller ponds on lower slopes for benefit of wildlife
  • JOINED UP HABITATS: Explore use of ‘seed islands’ to expand native woodlands and create habitat corridors across lower slopes
  • RETURN MISSING SPECIES: Increase diversity of woodlands by reintroducing missing tree species (rowan, aspen, wild rose, guelder rose, hawthorn)
  • REINSTATE NATURAL GRAZING: Implement conservation grazing and encourage soil disturbance by introducing native cattle with ‘no fence’ collars and native pigs
  • CREATE REWILDING BUSINESS: Develop nature-based enterprise (herbal / plant lore courses; non-timber forest products; and a specialist nursery)

"As a family we see our guardianship of Tombane as a life-long journey, one that we are all passionately dedicated to, the growth of habitat, biodiversity and conservation will be our family mission for years to come."

Hamish & Liberty Martin

This project is supported by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot.