EFFORTS to re-forest an area around Dumyat have drawn an award at the so-called Tree Oscars.
The Future Forest Company, which is driving forward a project to plant some 340,000 in the hills above Menstrie, scooped accolades at Scotland's Finest Woods Awards last week in recognition of its efforts to reduce CO2.
Jamie Adcock, senior forest manager, won this year's Climate Change Champion award for the Dumyat project, which is estimated to take away more than 80,000 tonnes of carbon over the next 100 years.
More than 18 species are being planted across the 184 hectare site while a range of biodiversity projects are also being taken forward at the site in a bid to transform ecologically degraded grasslands into wildflower meadows.
Jamie said: “This accolade is testament to the vision, planning and execution of the work we are undertaking at Dumyat.
“We are delighted that this site has been recognised by Scotland’s Finest Woods for our efforts in sharing our knowledge and experience about climate change.
CLIMATE CHAMP: Jamie Adcock scooped the award last week
“On-site our team of experts have been actively working with groups of volunteers from the local community and Stirling University student groups, to deliver a range of talks and demonstrations on biodiversity, climate change and reforestation as we aim to provide an outdoor educational resource for all levels from primary school through to academic research.”
The project has been gaining support since springing up, working with Stirling and Clackmannanshire Scottish Wildlife Trust as well as the Menstrie Scout Group.
The awards ceremony went ahead at The Royal Highland Show in Ingliston on Friday, June 23.
The Future Forest Company – which also has a reforestation project at Brodoclea in North Ayrshire – also celebrated a second award.
David Carruth, site assistant at Brodoclea Woodland, scooped the Young People's Award for Farm Woodland for his efforts which showed innovation in developing farm woodlands.
He was celebrated for his exemplary use of both woodland and agricultural practice at Brodoclea, proved to benefit both the farming operation while showcasing high quality woodland management with all activities taking place on the site being entirely integrated and supported by farming activity.
ENGAGEMENT: The project has brought in students and residents from the community
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