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There are two main aims of this project: the first is to transform a virtually barren piece of unused farmland which is accessible to the public into a complex of wetland habitats for both plant and animal wildlife. The second, dependent on the first, is to use the project as an educational and research tool - a model site for visitors, showing what may be achieved by biological diversification. The site is approximately 1 ha. in extent, adjacent to the former farm-steading known as Easter Boleskine, between Foyers and Inverfarigaig, Inverness-shire (O.S. map ref NH512225). It is owned by the Forestry Commission for Scotland who are active participants in the project and have already entered into a formal partnership with the existing management group. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency have given their verbal approval for the proposed project. The site will be monitored by Forestry Commission Rangers and will also fall within the orbit of the Highland Council Ranger Service. There have been no objections to the proposal and the project is clear to go ahead, given the necessary finance. The site is ideal for a wetland project, having been formed in Late-Glacial times as an area of open water, which has gradually, in the normal course of events, become infilled with peat. The physical conditions of the site and surrounding area have already been extensively examined. Trial excavation pits show a very high water table and a potential depth of water ranging from shallow shore entry to over 2 metres. In winter, certain areas of the site are flooded. Detailed field notes have been made of the existing flora and fauna, showing a quite remarkable poverty of species. Many photographs have been taken throughout the exploratory stages. Scientific monitoring of the site will continue and is considered of first importance. Experience elsewhere has shown that diversification of the physical conditions on a wetland site can produce a quite dramatic increase in the number and diversity of species. To this end it is proposed to excavate a variety of open water areas of differing depths and to produce areas of marshland by scraping hollows and enriching the surface. There will be judicious planting of shrub and tree species such as sallow and alder. Target species include surface-feeding and diving ducks, moorhen, coot, water rail, dabchick, heron; waders - snipe, redshank, woodcock, lapwing, oyster catcher; small passerines such as reed bunting and pipits and naturally, any of the raptors. Small mammals will make use of the site, as will many frogs, toads and newts along with countless invertebrates including dragon and damsel flies. The project has a high educational potential, both formal and informal. Visits by school groups are envisaged but the site is ideally situated for use by locals and the many visitors to the Loch Ness area. Purely by chance, a well-established Forestry Commission Trail runs along one edge of the site, giving a clear overview of the area. A small hide is to be provided, along with information boards and a carefully sited wooden walkway. Car parking and toilet facilities are available at a Forestry Visitor site at Inverfarigaig further back along the trail.

Partner: Easter Boleskine Wetland Project

Address: Easter Boleskine By Foyers

OS Grid ref: NH512224

Opening hours: 24 hours

Further information: FEBRUARY 2008 Project work moves forward on the site with the preparation of a topographical map. The accuracy of information on contour levels is one of the considerations in determining specific areas for further testing prior to excavation. The area was mapped by qualified Civil Engineers courtesy of the Forestry Commission for Scotland. We waited patiently for the wet months to come to establish the saturation levels. As January and February arrived much rainwater fell. We were able to record the flooded areas and to monitor directional flow and drainage. Volunteers undertook the task of multiple deep probes across the site to confirm the hardbase depths and to add the findings to the information regarding suitable excavation areas for the planned mosaic of pools. May 2008 We have progressed the topographical map into a landscape drawing showing the planned ponds, watercourses and planting. This map will soon be available for viewing on this site. We have been promised funding to assist with the project by a number of supportive bodies to include recording equipment, website design, duckboarding, hide, notice boards and plantings.

More Details available from: Katie Ellam

Email: katie.easterboleskine@virgin.net

Tel: 01456 486691