Strathyre and Loch Lubnaig are jewels of natural beauty, cherished by both locals and the thousands of visitors who flock here year after year. Our region is renowned for its vast forests, the home of the delightful red squirrel, as well as pine martens and raptors. The clean air, lush green spaces, and rich wildlife create a beloved sanctuary, both for nature lovers and for the local economy which thrives on eco-tourism and hospitality.

However, Forestry and Land Scotland's current plans propose mass felling and thinning of our forests, threatening to dismantle this irreplaceable ecosystem and the very essence of what makes Strathyre and Callander unique. We understand that forestry management is necessary, but such drastic measures need a pause. A thorough consultation involving local businesses and a comprehensive impact assessment on our wildlife are paramount before any further actions are taken. 

The total area affected by the FLS plan is 4226 hectares,  that's an area equivalent to 6000 football pitches! But the total amount of diseased Larch equates only to about 10% of that area. 

It’s vital for the protection of our wildlife, including the endangered red squirrels, pine martens, and various raptors, as well as for maintaining the livelihoods of those dependent on the area's natural allure. The potential adverse effects on the forest's biodiversity and our community's way of life cannot be underestimated.

We must prioritise sustainable practices that respect both the environment and the communities that cherish it. Forestry practices should aim to preserve nature's balance rather than upset it. 

We the people urge you Forestry and Land Scotland, and Scottish Forestry to please take immediate steps to halt these plans until a full consultation is conducted and the implications are fully understood. Let us come together to protect our forests, wildlife, and local economy.

Sign this petition to demand a full consultation before any more trees are felled. Together, we can preserve the natural beauty and ecological balance that define Strathyre and Loch Lubnaig.