SCOTTISH nature sites will receive a staffing boost this summer, with £900,000 of funding from the Scottish Government.
The NatureScot Better Places funding will go directly to 24 of Scotland’s most popular countryside, coast and island projects.
The funding will enable an additional 62 staff to be employed to support better visitor management and help safeguard the environment for visitors and local communities.
This will help manage visitor pressure in Shetland, Glencoe, the Pentlands, Loch Lomond, Arran, and various locations around East Lothian, North Perthshire, Islay and many more.
Bridget Jones, NatureScot’s Recreation and Paths Manager, said: “The Better Places Fund supports rangers to promote responsible enjoyment and manage some of the busiest and most popular areas.
“We want to help people have positive and memorable experiences as they visit and enjoy Scotland’s dramatic landscapes of beaches, mountains, lochs and woodlands.
“But as we tackle the climate and biodiversity crises, we have to ensure that the country’s most spectacular locations are valued and cared for, so that they are there for future generations.”
A similar scheme funded 109 seasonal staff last year, and made a significant difference in tackling issues such as irresponsible parking, camping, fires and litter issues.
Its success in improving visitor experiences and reducing impacts on local communities and the environment, led to the further funding allocated for seasonal staffing in 2023.
VisitScotland and partner organisations will be using social media, local radio and digital marketing to educate people about issues related to visiting nature hotspots, such as water safety, fire safety, dog control and wildlife disturbance.
The overall aim is that visitors respect, protect and enjoy Scotland’s outdoors this summer.
