FAQ: How will protected sites and species in the area continue to be safeguarded?
Due to its oak woodland and freshwater lochs, as well as the presence of marsh fritillary butterfly and otter, Knapdale has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is part of a wider Special Area of Conservation. Further details of the conservation status of the site can be found at Scottish Natural Heritage's (SNH) SiteLinks website.
A monitoring programme, which is integral to the trial, is assessing the impact beavers are having in Knapdale. The trial includes adequate safeguards (independently assessed by SNH) to protect the natural heritage of the area.
Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) is the host partner of the Scottish Beaver Trial and believes that Knapdale Forest is an ideal location to carry out the project as it covers a range of important habitats and biodiversity. The trial area is also in the heart of a forest which produces timber and provides recreational facilities for people, making it a suitable place to explore how beavers co-exist with forestry operations and the environment.
