Firstport

Abriachan is a scattered rural community of about 120 people, sitting high above the shores of Loch Ness. It is half way between Inverness and Drumnadrochit. The Abriachan Community recently purchased 534 hectares of planted forest and open hill which had been placed on the open market by the Forestry Commission. The Abriachan Community formed the Abriachan Forest Trust, a company limited by guarantee, as the vehicle for bringing the forest into community ownership. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OUR OBJECTIVES To play a major role in the re-afforestation of the Great Glen area with native species to secure the amenity access for both local residents and the wider public to a wide and varied stretch of wild countryside to ensure that the unique scenic and environmental value of the area is both respected and enhanced to ensure that the management of the plantation takes account of the local sensitivities with genuine community involvement in decision making and job creation.

Abriachan Forest consists of 534 hectares of planted Conifers, Native Broadleaves and naturally regenerating open hill. The Forest was purchased by the Abriachan Community in March 1998 and is one of the largest community owned woodlands in the UK. The Abriachan Forest Trust was established to manage the forest on behalf of the community. The objectives of the trust are to: - Enhance the environmental and scenic beauty of the area - Ensure continued public access - Promote planting of a mixed native woodland - Stimulate community and local job creation - Encourage interest in and education about this unique Highland environment.

1. Tyeantor
2. Abriachan
3. Inverness
4. IV3 8LD

• Tel: 01463 861 424
• Website: www.members.tripod.com/Abriachan

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