The Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Forest Wood reserve in Cumbernauld is undergoing woodland works to improve this vital space for wildlife and the local community.
The works are part of Cumbernauld Living Landscape’s new £2.6mn Heritage Fund project, Nurturing Natural Connections, led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust and made possible thanks to players of the National Lottery. Planned improvements aim to make Cumbernauld’s greenspaces more resilient for both people and wildlife for generations to come.
Thinning and small sections of clear-felling non-native trees at Forest Wood will allow for natural regeneration of native species, including mighty oaks, billowing birches and culturally significant rowans. These species provide food and shelter for wildlife such as pine martens, jays and bats, as well as strengthening the woodland’s biodiversity. Deadwood will be left on site, which not only recycles nutrients back into the soil, but provides improved habitats and food sources for other wildlife, including badgers and a variety of birds and invertebrates.
In addition, work is underway to create a yellow rattle field which will help provide seeds for reserves across Cumbernauld. Yellow rattle is a semi-parasitic plant that absorbs nutrients from surrounding grasses, creating ideal growing conditions for other wildflowers. It can also help reduce wildfire ignition loads by reducing grass volume. Project staff will use yellow rattle as a tool to help convert grassland into vibrant wildflower meadows, supporting a wide range of species.
Tracy Lambert, Nurturing Natural Connections Project Manager at the Scottish Wildlife Trust:
“Improving biodiversity through good woodland management is an investment in resilience and sustainability for both people and wildlife. By creating a rich mosaic of habitats, we support wildlife, enhance ecosystem services such as clean air and water regulation, and strengthen nature’s ability to adapt to climate change. Healthy, biodiverse woodlands are not just vital for wildlife—they safeguard our future and enrich the lives of people who depend on them.”
The Cumbernauld Living Landscape initiative offers a range of opportunities for members of the local community to get involved in taking action for nature. These include practical conservation work, such as habitat improvement works and species identification and recording, and opportunities to support local voices in key decision-making processes across Cumbernauld. Moreover, a series of activities will be developed to improve health and wellbeing, reduce social isolation and foster healthier, better-connected communities. All opportunities aim to help develop participants’ skills and confidence, whilst inspiring them to take positive action for nature.
The work at Forest Wood has been funded by a grant from FCC Communities Foundation and is scheduled for completion in March. FCC Communities Foundation is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community projects through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund.
Cheryl Raynor, FCC Communities Foundation Grant Manager:
“We’re proud to support projects like Nurturing Natural Connections that deliver lasting benefits for both people and wildlife. By funding initiatives that improve biodiversity and create opportunities for local communities, we help ensure that Scotland’s natural heritage thrives for generations to come.”
For more information, visit Cumbernauld Living Landscape.
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