This paper focuses on our present and future practice for those NNRs over which we have
a majority ownership.
In the past, NNRs were often thought of as being important only for their natural
heritage interest. That has changed. Today SNH regards NNRs as places where we look after
the natural heritage specifically for the people of Scotland, for them to experience and
enjoy.
In taking this view, we see the people closest to each NNR as particularly important.
We wish to encourage involvement and understanding of communities with the NNRs on
their doorstep. SNH will continue to improve links with the local communities on NNRs
where we are majority owners.
SNH as a landowner has several kinds of relationships with the local community –
neighbour, employer, provider of a facility, and staff as residents in the community. NNRs
are often a valuable resource to the community, particularly access for recreation and
environmental education, both of which we encourage.
We have formal liaison groups or informal liaison arrangements for the majority of our
Reserves.
SNH is fully committed to local consultation about NNR management. For the future, we
have already undertaken to consult the local authority, the local community
representatives and others during the preparation of NNR plans. We encourage local groups
to use the NNRs for education, demonstration and enjoyment.
SNH now contracts out many of the major tasks on NNRs, including building works,
fencing works, path construction and maintenance, deer stalking and biological survey. In
many cases local people are awarded the contracts.
The new style of business plans for NNRs will identify opportunities for local
employment. SNH will continue to use local contractors for estate management work on
reserves wherever possible. This need for additional labour with skills in countryside
management, e.g. footpath construction, is not unique to NNRs. Our long term plans
include investigating whether increased use of work experience and student placements on
NNRs would help to develop relevant skills in the local community.
Our new policy on NNRs confirms that one of the essential attributes is that they
exhibit primacy of nature in the way they are managed. This is sustainable
management of land, but it is distinct from sustainable management of the land where there
is a crop or livestock harvest.
The NNR is being reserved for nature, the benefit of wildlife and the nation; although
on some reserves a crop of sheep, venison or trees is a by-product of running the Reserve.
From a wider perspective, NNRs are complementary to other areas where greater
prominence is given to other rural development.
The business plan will also identify any opportunities to develop the visitor
management activities, and capitalise on the many people who visit Scotland to observe and
enjoy its scenery and wildlife.
This use of NNRs will contribute substantially to the sustainable development of the
local economy.
SNH will, of course, continue to offer support for the sustainable development of local
communities in other ways through its broader programme of work.
If you have any queries or wish further information on SNH’s management of NNRs in
your area contact the relevant office, details below:
