FLS Glen Prosen: ecological blank canvas or botanical hotspot?

Christine Reid, Angus Glens Programme Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland

Thursday 13 February 2025

Lecture Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh

Date: Thursday 13 February 2025 Edinburgh, from 6:00-7:00 pm – (Tea/coffee and biscuits will be available from 5:30 pm)

After the Lecture: We plan to take the speaker for dinner. Let us know at the lecture if you would like to join the party.

Venue: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Science Building, 20a Inverleith Row, EH3 5LR

Venue Note: To access the lecture please enter via the Science Buildings main reception, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5LR. Note this is NOT the public entrance to the gardens. what3words ///ROPES.DINNER.CLUBS

Title: FLS Glen Prosen: ecological blank canvas or botanical hotspot?

Abstract: Forestry and Land Scotland brought 3500 hectares of former grouse moor into public ownership in late 2022, with the intention of restoring nature, enhancing climate resilience, and benefitting people. Project Manager Chris Reid will present the process and plans involved to deliver this vision through a series of maps, images and illustrations. Initial appearances suggested limited botanical interest. However ecological and other environmental surveys have revealed a slightly different story to this southern Cairngorms landscape. Chris will discuss how FLS are addressing challenges like deer management and suitable native tree supply, and making the most of opportunities for montane habitat and river restoration, and creating new native woodland.

Bio: Chris Reid has worked in nature conservation for over 30 years within Government agencies and charitable organisations including Natural England, Woodland Trust, the Campaign for National Parks, and most recently with Forestry and Land Scotland. She has had the privilege of working in some wonderful wooded and upland landscapes across the UK.