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Nearly £6 million has been allocated to a five-year initiative aimed at revitalizing Scotland’s rare Atlantic rainforest. This funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund will help establish three dedicated hubs in Torridon, Morvern, and mid-Argyll to support the project. Our Rainforest Futures will engage local communities by providing training and employment opportunities focused on habitat restoration, managing deer populations, and controlling invasive species.
The Atlantic rainforest, covering approximately 75,000 acres (30,351 hectares) along Scotland’s west coast, is characterized by unique oceanic plant life. This ecosystem hosts a wide array of species, including glow worms, slime molds, and uncommon lichens, making it an internationally significant habitat. However, the forest faces significant challenges, such as overgrazing by deer and livestock, the spread of invasive plants, and diseases that threaten the remaining woodlands.
Communities surrounding the three hubs will play an active role in the restoration work. The Torridon hub will involve people from Kinlochewe, Shieldaig, Lochcarron, Applecross, and Gairloch. Meanwhile, the Morvern hub will include Lochaline, Strontian, and Tobermory on Mull, with mid-Argyll’s hub embracing Crinan, Tayvallich, Lochgilphead, Ardrishaig, and Tarbert. These hubs will act as focal points for community collaboration in conservation activities.
The Our Rainforest Futures project is led by the Woodland Trust Scotland, with support from organizations including Argyll Countryside Trust, Community Woodlands Association, Plantlife, RSPB Scotland, and SRUC. Caroline Clark, Scotland director of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, highlighted the rarity and importance of Scotland’s rainforest, noting that “a 2025 survey found fewer than one in three people even know it exists.” She added, “This major investment, using funds raised by National Lottery players, recognises that the future of our rainforest and the future of many west coast communities are closely linked. With the right support, both can thrive.” Julie Stoneman, Programme manager for Saving Scotland’s Rainforest at Plantlife, expressed optimism about the project’s impact, hoping it will generate over 20 jobs and 15 trainee positions
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