Minister Marvels at Ancient Woodland

Stewart Stevenson MSP, Minister for Environment and Climate Change, took time out of his busy schedule to meet with Woodland Trust Scotland Director, Carol Evans for a guided tour of the Trust’s site at Aldouran Glen, Leswalt.

Stewart Stevenson MSP, Minister (centre)
Carol Evans, Woodland Trust Scotland Director (right)
Simon Hodge, CEO of Forest Enterprise Scotland (left)

History abounds at Aldouran Glen, on the Rhins of Galloway, where an iron-age fort overlooks the glen from its lofty promontory and the majestic trees make the site old enough to be included on the Ancient Woodland Inventory.

Its isolated location makes the site a peaceful retreat where visitors can go and appreciate the natural environment and discover unusual plant species.

In a brief but informative session, the Woodland Trust Scotland, were able to explain the importance of woodland, in terms of creating places for wildlife to live, discovering our shared history, and in locking up carbon. The popular site also illustrates why woods are great place to visit, relax and escape the stresses of modern life.

Mr Stevenson said:

“Woodland is vitally important for supporting biodiversity and wildlife, providing green areas and also in meeting our ambitious climate change targets. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Aldouran Glen, which provided a fascinating insight into one of the lesser known historic sites of Scottish forest.”

Carol Evans,

“We are delighted that Stewart Stevenson, visited Aldouran Glen. His visit provided us with an opportunity to show off a site which is a hidden gem.”