A woodland creation project near Strathaven has earned Scottish Water its first Nature 30 recognition in honour of biodiversity benefits being delivered at the site.
Nature30 is NatureScot’s voluntary approach to recognising land that is being managed for the long-term benefit of biodiversity, wildlife and nature recovery outside of existing protected areas.
The newly recognised area surrounds Glengavel Reservoir, where Scottish Water is delivering new native broadleaf woodland, amounting to 52 hectares including planted areas and open ground.
The site is one of nine across the country to have received Nature 30 recognition to date, as part of Scotland’s commitment to safeguard at least 30% of land and sea by 2030.
The woodland creation scheme has been designed to protect priority habitats, avoid areas of deep peat, and create a more connected landscape for wildlife. The work is also expected to improve habitat availability for a range of species, including birds of conservation concern such as woodcock.
Scottish Water project manager Stephen Garbett said, “Glengavel is a great example of how woodland creation can deliver multiple benefits. Alongside creating almost 29 hectares of new native woodland, the project has been carefully designed to enhance biodiversity, protect important habitats, improve water quality and help build resilience to a changing climate.
“We’re delighted to see the site recognised through Nature30. The recognition reflects the long-term environmental value of the project and the positive contribution it will make for wildlife and the wider landscape for generations to come.”
Scottish Water’s biodiversity lead, Terri Ward, added, “Healthy ecosystems play an important role in helping us deliver resilient water and wastewater services. By protecting and restoring biodiversity across our landholdings, we’re not only creating better habitats for wildlife, we’re also improving water quality, storing carbon and helping landscapes adapt to the impacts of climate change.”
Cerian Baldwin, Nature30 manager at NatureScot, said, “What makes this site so exciting is that it shows how restoring nature can also improve water quality and strengthen the resilience of the wider environment. Recognising Glengavel through Nature30 highlights how protecting and enhancing nature can help safeguard wider environmental and societal benefits. It demonstrates how long-term management can support nature recovery while delivering benefits for people, communities and the wider landscape.”
As part of the recognition, Scottish Water has committed to managing and monitoring the site over the long term, with work including deer management, bracken control, woodland establishment surveys, and regular ecological monitoring.
