Tree Planting at the Rest and Be Thankful Strengthens Hillside Stability

Forestry and Land Scotland’s (FLS) large-scale tree planting initiative at the Rest and Be Thankful is progressing well, marking a major step in efforts to stabilise the surrounding slopes.

The project’s initial stage — supported by funding from Transport Scotland — involved the planting of around 160,000 native trees on land purchased specifically for this purpose, according to The Herald Scotland. Building on that success, FLS has now added another 241,500 native species on neighbouring areas under its management.

The newly established woodland is already beginning to play a crucial role in reinforcing the hillside. The developing root systems will, over time, help to reduce the risk of landslides and protect the A83 carriageway below.

James Hand, Operations Forester for FLS in the region, said the early signs are positive:

“It’s great to see how well the young trees are doing. The deer fencing has certainly helped, and the shrub shelters have given the roots extra time to take hold. Now that most of the trees are established, the shelters are being removed and recycled.”

He added that the planting includes a diverse mix of locally sourced native species — such as downy birch, aspen, oak, blackthorn, hawthorn, alder, hazel, juniper, and Scots pine.

“These species are well adapted to local conditions and are likely to cope best with future climate changes,” he explained. “They’ll do amazing things for the landscape and greatly enhance biodiversity.”

Although the trees are still young, their expanding root networks will gradually strengthen the hillside’s structure.

Angus Corby, Landscape and Biodiversity Manager at Transport Scotland, highlighted the project’s complexity:

“Delivering this woodland planting has been challenging, mainly because of the steep and exposed terrain above the A83. The fact that the trees are now taking root so successfully reflects the dedication of the team and the strong collaboration between Transport Scotland and Forestry and Land Scotland.”