In a groundbreaking achievement, the Dundreggan rewilding estate in the Scottish Highlands has been awarded a special European designation for its genetically unique juniper forest. This prestigious recognition is reserved only for long-standing native tree stands that meet specific criteria.
The 10,000-acre estate, located in Glemoriston near Loch Ness, is now part of a European network of Gene Conservation Units – sites that are managed to protect and enhance the genetic diversity of tree species at a European scale. This network, managed in the UK by Forest Research, aims to ensure coordinated protection of genetic diversity and natural processes.
The designation is a major milestone for Trees for Life, the charity that manages Dundreggan Estate. Gwen Raes, Dundreggan Estate Manager, said, “This designation underlines why letting our ancient woodlands grow back naturally is so important to us at Dundreggan. It celebrates the remarkable remnants of naturally occurring and locally adapted juniper and silver birch that still survive on the estate.”
The estate’s use of ‘dynamic conservation’ is a key factor in earning this designation. This approach enables natural regeneration, allowing trees to continuously adapt to their specific environment. This is especially important in the face of changing weather conditions and temperatures.
Forest Research scientist Tom Sim, responsible for registering the UK’s Gene Conservation Units, stated, “The juniper and silver birch at Dundreggan are naturally occurring without historic planting and have likely adapted to their local conditions over many generations. As a result, we would expect the stands to be representative of distinct genetic variation for each species at a UK and European level.”
The remote location of Dundreggan, with its relatively high rainfall for juniper, may have contributed to some local adaptation. Juniper is a slow-growing evergreen shrub or small tree, with small blue-green needles and berries that ripen to a dark, blue-purple colour. It is more abundant in the drier, eastern part of the Highlands, where it reaches a larger size.
Juniper supports biodiversity by providing shelter and food for a range of wildlife, including insects, mammals, and birds. It also has culinary, medicinal, and ritual properties, such as its use in game dishes and gin production.
Silver birch is another important species at Dundreggan. As the estate is situated at Europe’s western edge of silver birch’s natural range, it plays a vital role in supporting many insects and other invertebrates, with over 300 species known to feed on it. The tree’s roots draw up crucial nutrients, and its fallen leaves add richness to the soil.
As part of the Gene Conservation Unit designation, Dundreggan’s juniper and silver birch will be regularly monitored to ensure their survival, health, and successful natural regeneration.
Visitors to Dundreggan and its acclaimed Rewilding Centre can explore the lush juniper and birch woodlands and enjoy walks along forest trails, including an accessible, low-level Juniper Path, known as Ceum an Aitinn in Gaelic. In total, the woodlands on the lower part of the estate are home to some 50,000 juniper and 80,000 silver birch.
Trees for Life is committed to restoring nature-rich landscapes for people, nature, and climate. The charity works together with communities to restore Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage while supporting local livelihoods. For more information, please visit www.treesforlife.org.uk.
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