Aspen (Populus tremula) is the only poplar tree species that is native to Scotland. It is found throughout the Scottish Highlands and Islands from sea level to over 700 metres in the Cairngorms. Despite such a widespread distribution aspen exists only as small stands or solitary trees, rarely sets seed and spreads mainly by the vegetative production of suckers. The expansion of aspen is further restricted by its palatability to deer and other browsers. Yet it is hugely important for a range of species some of which are entirely dependent on aspen. In Scotland aspen is host to over 300 species of lichen, up to 100 fungi, several rare bryophytes, numerous aspen-dependent saproxylic insects, rare moths and other invertebrates. Aspens importance to biodiversity and its landscape appeal has led to concerns about its genetic vulnerability and its future conservation.
Survey
In 2009 Boleskine Environmental Network undertook a survey of the aspen in the South Loch Ness area. The report can be found here. Various recommendations were made which included expanding existing stands and planting new ones. A small experimental enclosure was erected in the Pass of Inverfarigaig in 2019 and seed grown aspen of local origin were planted. This has proved to be very successful and trees are now mostly over 3 metres in height.
Rewilding Gleann Liath
Boleskine Biodiversity Group are assisting Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) to restore the native woodland in the north east part of Gleann Liath. The glen was largely cleared of conifers a few years ago and, as an ancient woodland site, FLS wishes to see the area regenerate to a more natural state. Saplings of birch, rowan, willow and alder are already growing well as a result of successful deer control. However, aspen which is already present in the Inverfarigaig area, has been lost from Gleann Liath. FLS and Trees for Life have between them provided 300 seed-grown aspen, plus a few oak, for planting in the glen. Over the past few weeks BBG volunteers have been busy planting the aspen, some in tree shelters and some without. Hopefully, in the next few years Gleann Liath will be a very different place to the dark wooded glen of the past.
The tree planters of Gleann Liath
