This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Multi-agency deer management agreement
02/04/2004
Public land use bodies have agreed to share powers and resources to better manage deer populations.
The Deer Commission for Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Forestry Commission Scotland and the Executive's Environment and Rural Affairs Department have signed up to the new agreement that addresses priority areas where grazing, in particular by wild deer, may be causing concern or where there are risks to public safety on roads.
Deputy Rural Development Minister Allan Wilson said that under current arrangements, no one agency has all the powers to deal with overgrazing and trampling.
The new joint working arrangements will enhance existing bi-lateral arrangements and enable a more integrated approach in identifying, monitoring and addressing potential damage to important environmental sites.
The Minister said:
"The Executive and the public land use bodies in Scotland are very aware of wild deer issues and a lot of good work has been undertaken in recent years to address this.
"This new agreement will lead to improved management of Scotland's deer to ensure that grazing is maintained at appropriate levels on important sites and that road safety concerns are dealt with. Deer welfare will not be compromised."
The Deer Commission for Scotland is responsible for the conservation, control and sustainable management of wild deer populations. Its powers are mainly regulatory and are restricted to the prevention of damage by deer.
Scottish Natural Heritage is responsible for safeguarding and enhancing Scotland's natural heritage. Its Natural Care schemes are aimed at securing appropriate management of statutorily designated sites.
The Forestry Commission Scotland serves as the forestry department of the Executive advising on and implementing forestry policy. This body provides grants to expand and improve the stewardship of existing woodlands.
The Environment and Rural Affairs Department is responsible for ensuring that livestock stocking densities and management are compatible with environmental standards and meet other Executive policies.