Friends of the Ochils monitors forestry proposals across the Ochils to ensure they do not damage the open character, natural beauty and biodiversity of the upland landscape. Where proposals raise concerns, FOTO submits formal representations to the relevant authority — historically the Forestry Commission Scotland, now Scottish Forestry — as part of the public consultation process.
Large-scale commercial planting on open upland ground can alter the character of the landscape significantly and permanently, affecting habitats, water quality, access routes and the visual quality of the hills. FOTO's role is to scrutinise such proposals and, where necessary, make the case for the protection of the Ochils.
Our consultation responses
Jerah Farm, north of Menstrie — afforestation proposal (2013)
In 2013, Forestry Commission Scotland consulted on an Environmental Statement for a significant afforestation scheme at Jerah Farm on the northern flanks of the Ochils. FOTO submitted a detailed formal representation raising concerns about the loss of open moorland character and the impact on nearby walking routes.
Read the Jerah Farm submission (PDF)
Gleneagles Woodland Creation Scheme
FOTO submitted comments on a woodland creation scheme in the Gleneagles area, examining the potential landscape and ecological impact on the surrounding Ochils upland ground.
Read our Gleneagles WCS comments (PDF)
Blackford Farms Woodland Creation — Harperstone/Glentye, Sheriffmuir (2018)
In November 2018, FOTO responded to a woodland creation proposal for land at Harperstone and Glentye on Sheriffmuir, arguing that the cumulative effect of commercial planting proposals on the open Sheriffmuir landscape required careful scrutiny.
Read our Blackford Farms response (PDF)
Coulshill — Screening Opinion (2022)
In March 2022, FOTO challenged Scottish Forestry's Screening Opinion for a forestry proposal at Coulshill, arguing that a full Environmental Impact Assessment was required given the scale of the planting and the sensitivity of the setting within the Ochils landscape.
Read our Coulshill response (PDF)
If you are aware of a forestry proposal in the Ochils that you think FOTO should examine, please contact us.