Described as one of the most beautiful straths in the Highlands, Strathnairn has managed largely to retain its rural identity despite its proximity to Inverness. It is a small but dynamic community - with two nearby working quarries.
When Forest Enterprise announced their intention to dispose of two of their woods in the area close to Farr, School Wood and Milton Wood, the community quickly saw the potential opportunities and formed a steering committee to consider the possibility of a community purchase.
These woods were already an important part of the community. Located between two parts of the village, School Wood gives the opportunity to create and link paths off the main road. The range of habitats in a relatively small area and its proximity to Farr Primary School and Nursery makes it ideal, with improved access, for educational projects as well as wider conservation interests.
Milton Wood is much larger and is a hidden jewel with tremendous potential. It has a particularly attractive riparian zone which is a habitat for woodpeckers, red squirrels and bats.
Both woods are adjacent to the B851 on the South Loch Ness tourist route.
With assistance from the Scottish Land Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the steering committee carried out a feasibility study considering opportunities to improve access, interpretation, economic impact and education. Most importantly it confirmed that it was possible for the community to own and manage the woods in a sustainable manner for the local and wider benefit.
After widespread community consultation, Scottish Natural Heritage confirmed their sponsorship of the project, paving the way for a community purchase. A charitable company limited by guarantee was formed to hold the woods in trust for the community and elections duly held for the Board of Trustees. Membership of the company at this time was in excess of 200 and steadily rising.
In addition to local fundraising, funding from the Scottish Land Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Community Environmental Renewal Grant helped to finalise the purchase. Traffic from the two local quarries passed through the community on a single-track road.
Completion was scheduled for March 2003 but some minor last minute legal details delayed completion.
The Board of Trustees prepared a management plan took advice from IM Forestry on this. There was consultation with the community to finalise the plan. The Strathnairn Community Council Newsletter kept the community informed of progress and activities.
The Community Council considered the woodland purchase was an exciting project, with considerable environment, economic, recreation and educational advantages for the local and wider community - this extending into the future.
Contact
Strathnairn Community Woodland Project
Farr
By Inverness
IV2 6XJ