The felling coupe, located on the banks of Soulseat Loch, presented several challenges due to its ecological sensitivities and the presence of local infrastructure. The loch, managed by the Stranraer and District Angling Association (SDAA), is a prized fishing location, and our main objective was to ensure that the operation had no negative impact on the water quality, the fish population, or the surrounding environment.
The primary constraint of the project was the proximity of the trees to the edge of Soulseat Loch, which is an important fishing habitat. To preserve the water quality and protect the ecosystem, special care was taken to ensure that no debris or pollutants from the felling process would affect the loch or its tributary burns. Additionally, the site was home to multiple badger sets, and there were overhead powerlines that added complexity to the operation.
To mitigate potential risks and disruptions, Euroforest worked closely with the Stranraer and District Angling Association (SDAA), who were incredibly supportive of the project. One key action taken was the temporary closure of the footpath that runs through the bottom of the coupe, a common route for local anglers. By maintaining open communication with the SDAA, we ensured that anglers were informed about the need for safety precautions and respected the site closure during the operation.
This project highlighted the strength of collaboration across different departments within the Euroforest Group. The planning and execution of the clearfell involved close cooperation between local teams, forestry managers, and external partners to ensure that the operation was both efficient and environmentally responsible.
From the very beginning, our planning team took a proactive approach to understand the specific sensitivities of the site. Euroforest's site management team, led by myself and Stewart Rodgers, worked closely with experienced operators Richard Gibb and Darren Little. Their operational expertise ensured that the felling process adhered to safety protocols and environmental best practices.
Euroforest’s commitment to environmental protection and community engagement also meant that we integrated the perspectives of both internal experts and external stakeholders. Our collaboration with SDAA and the estate owner was a prime example of how different parts of Euroforest worked together with local groups. Regular communication ensured that all parties were aligned on goals and expectations, and adjustments were made as needed to minimize disruption to the local community, particularly the anglers who frequent Soulseat Loch.
Furthermore, our environmental team supported the operation by conducting thorough assessments and ensuring that proper measures were in place to protect the loch’s water quality and biodiversity. This collaboration not only safeguarded the local ecosystem but also demonstrated how Euroforest operates as a unified, multidisciplinary group to meet complex challenges.
Our partnership with the private landowner and the SDAA was central to the success of the project. The association’s cooperation allowed us to carry out the felling work smoothly and safely while maintaining the protection of the loch and its surrounding environment. In appreciation of their support, Euroforest gifted custom-made baseball caps featuring the SDAA logo and Euroforest sponsorship to the association. These caps will be distributed to the club’s junior members now that the 2025 fishing season has started, symbolizing our commitment to the local community and environment.
A photo of Euroforest’s project manager handing over the caps to Harry Hay, Chairman of the SDAA, captures the positive spirit of collaboration that defined the project.
The operation was carried out with expertise by Euroforest Harvesting operators Richard Gibb and overseen by Euroforest’s site management team, consisting of myself and Stewart Rodgers. All four of us are local to the area and share a passion for fishing, which made the project particularly meaningful to us. Working on a site so close to home, and ensuring the loch and its ecosystem were protected, was a source of pride for the entire team.
Thanks to the joint efforts of Euroforest, the SDAA, and our local teams, the project was completed efficiently and safely, without compromising the environment or local community interests.
We are proud of how this project turned out and look forward to future collaborations with the estate, Stranraer and District Angling Association and other local stakeholders. The work completed not only helped manage the forest sustainably but also strengthened Euroforest’s ties with the community and demonstrated our commitment to environmental stewardship.
