Strathard: A Landscape to Live Work and Play
A gem in the Trossachs
Strathard is located within the spectacular scenery of the Trossachs and takes in the communities of Aberfoyle, Kinlochard, Inversnaid and Stronachlachar. As well as a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and ancient woodlands, other natural treasures in Strathard include the Queen Elizabeth Park, the Achray Forest, the Duchray water and Loch Ard.
Gathering views on Strathard
Strathard a landscape to live, work and play, is a collaborative project that will engage with and capture the views of everyone who benefits from and interacts within this area. During 2016 local residents, visitors, landowners and local businesses will have an opportunity to say what they see are the benefits, environmental challenges, resources, and important factors of visiting, living and working in this very diverse landscape.
Review of land and water management practices: an ecosystems approach
These views will inform a review of land and water management practices and highlight ‘place’ rather than ‘space’.
This project is based on an ecosystems approach to land and water management, ensuring community views and landowners are at the forefront of priority setting and future delivery. Flooding is a particular issue in the Strathard area, however an ecosystems approach places an emphasis on the value and interdependency of land, forest, water and other activities, such as recreational tourism and creates joined-up solutions.
Project support
We recognised the potential of this innovative collaborative project and encouraged the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) to fund the Community Partnership to empower residents, businesses and landowners in Strathard to engage actively in the project in order to describe how the landscape benefits their lives, livelihoods and well-being.
The project is supported by SEPA, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, The Community Partnership, Stirling Council, Forestry Commission, Scottish Natural Heritage, and Forest Research, and a significant amount of in kind time from communities.