Galloway Ranger 2015

www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark

What’s Inside?Flying High, Larch Felling,Otter Watch, What’s On,Being in the Biosphere & more ...

www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestparkThe Galloway Ranger2

Contents2 Welcome3 A welcome home for

precious Pine Martens 4 Food in the Forest 5 Otter Watch 6 New flavours at

Kirroughtree VisitorCentre

7 Discovering Cally Woods8 Fishing at Loch Grannoch

Red Deer Range EventsHorse Riding in theGalloway Forest Park

9 Fishing & Horse Riding 10/11 Forest Park map12 Look Up13 Look Down

Stay safe on the hills14 Larch Felling in the

Galloway Forest Park15 What happens next?

‘Timeless Timber’ createdfrom felled Larch

16/17 Birds in Focus19 Festivals & Events20 Forest Fun

Welcome It’s Great Outdoors!

Welcome to the 2015 Galloway Ranger,your guide to the great outdoors of theGalloway Forest Park. Make this year

the year you discover the wealth of adventures,experiences and encounters that awaits you in theUK’s largest forest park.

Within the Galloway Forest Park you can explore300 square miles of mixed woodland, enjoybeautiful landscapes, take in 3 visitor centres,choose from 27 waymarked walking trails, plentifulfishing-friendly lochsand rivers, discoverfascinating wildlife,historical sites, horseriding trails, artinstallations, two ofthe 7stanes mountainbiking centres and theUK’s first Dark SkyPark.

This year isScotland’s Year ofFood & Drink and ourthree superb visitorcentres are theperfect places touncover delicious localspecialities and tastytreats. Kirroughtree,Clatteringshaws andGlentrool have allundergone somechanges over the past few years, and our newfacilities have been warmly welcomed by visitors –particularly the cosy wood burning stoves!

This year’s issue of the Galloway Ranger isdedicated to helping you discover something new todo within the Galloway Forest Park. We highlightsome of the less well known wildlife in the forest,such as otters and pine marten, and we list eventsand activities where you can interact with wildlife

first hand, by feeding red deer, watching red kitesswoop low or viewing some of the commonwoodland birds that are always very busy aroundour feeding stations.

Seasonal events at visitor centres are highlightedas well as our very popular fishing events that arethe perfect introduction to those new to the sport.We invite you to discover some gorgeous picnicspots and to explore the fascinating Cally Woodswith its recently conserved Neo-Gothic Temple.

And, if you haven’t yetlain down on a RosnesBench and contemplatedthe biosphere aroundyou, then resolve to do soduring 2015! You’llexperience an entirelynew perspective on theworld and your placewithin it – these works ofart sited throughout theGalloway Forest Parkwere launched in 2014and they are not to bemissed.

Finally we look again atthe larch felling that iscurrently taking placewithin the forest, but thefelling of the trees is onlythe start of the journey.

In this year’s Ranger wefind out how the larch timber is being used andwhat’s planned for the felled areas of forest in thelonger term.

Make 2015 the year you discover a multitude ofnew experiences in the Galloway Forest Park, aswell as revisiting firm favourites. The GallowayForest Park is here to be explored and for thosewho enjoy Scotland’s majestic outdoors a wholeworld of adventure awaits.

Galloway Forest Park Visitor CentresKirroughtree – 01671 402165Clatteringshaws – 01644 420285Glentrool – 01671 840302Forestry Commission ScotlandGalloway Forest Park Office, Newton Stewart,Wigtownshire DG8 6AJ Tel: 01671 402420PoliceNon-emergency – 101Emergency – 999 (For Mountain Rescue dial 999and ask for Police)Galloway Mountain RescueDetailed mountain weather forecast for Gallowayavailable online at www.gallowaymrt.org.ukNHS 24 – 08454 24 24 24VisitScotland Information CentresCastle Douglas – 01556 502611 (seasonal)Dumfries – 01387 253862 Gretna – 01461 337834

Kirkcudbright – 01557 330494Moffat – 01683 220620 (seasonal)Newton Stewart – 01671 402431 (seasonal)Southwaite – 01697 473445Stranraer – 01776 702595Information Point(in partnership with VisitScotland)Gatehouse-of-Fleet – 01557 814212VetsNewton Stewart: Creebridge Veterinary Centre – 01671 402247 Whithorn: The Priory Veterinary Centre – 01988 500356Castle Douglas: Dunmuir Veterinary Group – 01556 502400Castle Douglas: Stewartry Veterinary Centre – 01556 502263Kirkcudbright: Galloway Vet Group – 01557 330632

Useful contact details

Photography: Mick Durham (front cover image),Andrew Jarrott, Lucy Hadley, Ian Findlay, Colin Hattersley, David Henderson, Chris Gomersall

Design & production by: Ian Findlay DesignEditorial by: Indigo Words

The Galloway Ranger 3www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark

A welcome home forprecious Pine Martens

Ray Mears meetsGalloway’s elusivePine Martens

One of the Galloway Forest Park’s mostcharming but elusive residents is beingencouraged to thrive with the introduction

of new den boxes to help boost numbers. The pinemarten, an agile member of the weasel family, isthe subject of a new study, supported by thePeople’s Trust for Endangered Species and ForestryCommission Scotland, designed to monitor andincrease pine marten populations in the forest.

Interest in pine martens has rocketed in recentyears after a study in Ireland suggested they mayhelp to control non-native grey squirrels. Byincreasing the resident pine marten population it ishoped that grey squirrel incursion into an area canbe prevented. This presents many benefits to theGalloway Forest Park’s native red squirrels, whichare currently threatened by the squirrel pox viruscarried by the encroaching greys.

After many decades of persecution and declinethe pine marten population has now recoveredwidely in Scotland and a small population becameestablished in the Galloway Forest Park during the1980s.

Each pine marten patrols a large territory ofseveral square kilometres, and while the numberscurrently in Galloway Forest are low, there areseveral ways in which pine marten populations canbe encouraged to increase.

Creating safe denning is one of the most effective

ways. Pine martens prefer to breed in old hollowtrees, and these are in very short supply in modernforests. By providing safe artificial den sites wherenatural tree cavities are scarce we can help tocreate valuable breeding areas for the pine martens.

Since 2004 pine martens have bred successfully inlarge wooden den boxes attached to trees in theforest, and in the autumn of 2014 50 pine martenden boxes of a new lightweight design wereinstalled in the Fleet Basin, the part of the GallowayForest Park where red squirrels are in most urgentneed of help. These new boxes will greatly increasethe availability of safe denning and breeding sitesfor pine martens, which should support pine martensurvival and breeding success.

Over the next few years these new den boxes willbe monitored for signs of use to see if pine martensbreed in them. This detailed monitoring will includeDNA analysis of hairs collected from the boxes andanalysis of droppings samples from the occupiedden boxes. The results of these tests will tellresearchers how the pine marten population ismoving and, hopefully, expanding, while droppingssampling will show the diet and feeding preferencesof the Galloway Forest Park’s pine martens.

Over time a robust picture will emerge of howpine martens are doing in the Galloway Forest Parkand whether their new artificial dens are helpingthese precious creatures to thrive.

In the fourth episode of his WildernessWalks series Ray Mears explored thelandscape of Galloway and visited the

Galloway Forest Park last year to seek out therare and elusive pine marten.

Having tracked a pair of the mustelidsthrough the forest, Ray was wowed by theirpresence when he met them close up:

“That has got to be one of the neatest thingsI have ever seen in my travels. Pine martens arevery special; they are so difficult to see, and tosee those young like that – what a privilege.Quite wonderful.”


This year, 2015, marks Scotland’s Year of Food& Drink, a perfect excuse for indulging indelicious artisan produce, local specialities,

tasty food events, fun filled family picnics andrelaxed dining in our cosy visitor centres.

Favourite Picnic SpotsThe Galloway Forest Park is full of tranquil and

idyllic picnic spots, places that are perfect forromantic solitude, for family fun and for stunningscenic viewpoints. Pack your picnic hamper andhead off to some of these tasty stops for a day ofsatisfying outdoor feasting.

Otter Pool, Raider’s RoadA perfect riverside picnic spot around half way

along the Raider’s Road, with lots of room on thegrassy banks to play. There are toilets and accessiblefacilities. Open April to October. (map - E7)

Stroan Loch, Raider’s RoadYou’ll find picturesque views, an old railway

viaduct, the start of the scenic Buzzard Trail and acar park at the south east corner of this popular

fishing loch, along the Raider’s Road. Open April toOctober. (map - E8)

Carrick Forest Drive This two-way forest drive connecting Loch Doon

and Stinchar Bridge is one of the easiest ways toenjoy a true wilderness experience. Halfway alongyou’ll find a fun adventure playground and picnicarea beside beautiful Loch Riecawr. (map - G6)

Giant Axe Head at GlentroolGlentrool is known for its legends of Scottish and

Irish giants back in the mists of time. The Giant AxeHead, one of the 7stanes, is a 1.5 ton sculptureoverlooking Loch Dee which could easily bemistaken for a long forgotten remnant from thoseancient legends. (map - E5)

Visitor CentresThere are picnicking areas at each of the three

visitor centres, which means you can supplementyour favourite bites to eat with warming drinks anddelicious desserts. Or you could enjoy al frescodining at the tranquil picnic tables at Glentrool by

selecting meals from the visitor centre menu toenjoy outdoors.

Visitor Centre Specialities Wood burning stoves, comfy sofas and warm

hospitality are some of the treats to be had at thethree visitor centres in the Galloway Forest Park;Kirroughtree, Clatteringshaws and Glentrool. On themenu are a feast of local specialities that are a must-try when you visit.

Galloway Lodge Preserves, look after scenicClatteringshaws Visitor Centre and they are fastbecoming famous for their hearty breakfasts, theperfect way to warm up after a morning exploringthe countryside. Jams, chutneys, mustards andpreserves are their speciality and, naturally, featureextensively on the Clatteringshaws menu. It’sdifficult to beat one of their freshly made sconestopped with generous amounts of Galloway LodgePreserve’s outstanding raspberry jam!

Fresh and local is the twin food philosophy thatoperator Churchill base their operations on atKirroughtree. The visitor centre is alive with thearoma of fresh baking each and every morning, andthe tasty menu is full of local flavours.

Local Food Events Around the Galloway Forest Park is a thriving

local food scene where you can meet local, artisanproducers who are growing and creatingexceptional food and drink. There are regularmarkets at Ballantrae, Creetown, Wigtown,Gatehouse and Kirkcudbright, while Kirkcudbrightand Castle Douglas also host annual food festivals.

Go Wild At different times of year there is a veritable feast

of wild food in the Galloway Forest Park, and if youknow what you’re picking, you are welcome toforage for small quantities of wild food for yourown use. For example, there are lush carpets ofaromatic wild garlic in spring and bountiful wildfungi in autumn in Glentrool. Please take care andbe 100% sure of your ID before eating any wild food.

Food in the Forest

thebreakpad @ 7STANES Kirroughtree

Kirroughtree Visitor Centre, Palnure, Newton Stewart, Dumfries & Galloway, DG8 7BE e: [email protected] www.thebreakpad.com

t: 01671 401303

In 2014, The Breakpadmoved to the purpose builtvisitor centre at Kirroughtree7stanes, with a fullyequipped workshop and hirecounter.

Our hire fleet is the largest inDumfries and Galloway andcontinues to grow! In 2015,we will be offering Haibike,an electric pedal assistmountain bike and TrekHybrid bikes that will beperfect for exploring thebeautiful quite country lanesof Dumfries and Galloway.

We cater for all riders, from20” wheel children’s bikes, tofull suspension mountainbikes. We stock a wide rangeof clothing and bikeaccessories, as well as aworkshop staffed by Cyctecaccredited mechanics. Demobikes from: SantaCruz/Orange/TREK. Familyof 4 bike hire special - £60for 3 hrs. All hire bikes comewith a helmet, and pricesstart from £12. We also offercoaching, from beginner toexpert, prices start from £50for 2hrs 1-2-1 tuition.


Are there otters at the Otter Pool?” It’s aquestion we are asked regularly by visitorsto the Galloway Forest Park. These

inquisitive and intelligent semi-aquatic mammalshave enormous appeal, and their playful naturemakes them a joy to observe, often appearing totake childlike enjoyment in sliding around onmuddy banks or in snow.

The answer is yes, otters have been spotted atthe Otter Pool. In fact the otter is widespreadacross Dumfries & Galloway living next to rivers,streams and freshwater lochs throughout theregion. However, because inland otters are largelynocturnal they can be difficult to spot and you’remost likely to see them early in the morning or lateat night.

The otter is part of the weasel family and they areeasily recognised by their long slim body, thicktapering tail, short limbs,chocolate brown fur andflattened heads. Ottersare perfectly adapted totheir semi-aquaticlifestyle. They have verysoft, insulated underfurprotected by an outerlayer of long guard hairwhich trap a layer of airto keep the otter warmand dry. They can closetheir sensitive ears andnose when underwater and their webbed paws andsharp claws are invaluable for hunting for food.

Indeed the otter is a smart and active hunter,searching riverbeds and lakes for fish, invertebrates,small mammals and frogs. Their hunting is driven bya high metabolic rate which means they need to eataround 15% of their body weight each day. Mostotters spend around three to five hours a dayhunting, mainly during dusk and dawn, and nursingmothers often hunt for up to eight hours each day.

any are found the area is excluded from harvestingoperations and the site protected..

Our management ofthe Galloway Forest isimproving the habitatfor otters by increasingthe age diversity of thewoodland, and bycreating open spacealong watercourses andon the edges of lochs.

Whenever we fellconifer trees close tolarge areas of water wealso take theopportunity to create

artificial otter holts, using logs topped with a thicklayer of branches. These artificial holts provide asafe and secure site for breeding or resting.

We are also creating new habitat by plantingnative broadleaved trees which will never be felled.Over time, these habitats will expand and mature,providing important food for fish and thereforesafe, rich hunting grounds for Galloway’s beautifulotters.

Due to their elusive nature, seeing the signs ofotters is usually far easier than spotting the animalsthemselves . Alongriverbanks andwaterways look for five-toed footprints (about 6-7cm long) anddroppings or ‘spraints’which often have visiblefish bones. These can befound on the edges ofstreams, often inprominent locations suchas tree stumps or rocks,weirs or bridges. Thespraints are left as‘scented messages’, helping them to find mates anddefend territories.

Otters are very territorial creatures and anindividual’s territory varies according to foodavailability and the width of the water suitable forhunting – generally stretching to around 11 miles,but territories on narrow rivers can be up to 24miles!

Otters live in a den called a ‘holt’, which normallyconsists of a burrow or hollow tree on the riverbankwhich can sometimes only be entered from beneath

the water. They alsohave locations wherethey lie up during the daywhich are known as‘couches’. Couches canbe nest-like structures ofvegetation up to a metrein diameter, or they cansimply be a depression ina stick pile or under awindblown tree. Eachotter will use a numberof different places for

shelter within its home range.Otters, and their breeding and resting places, are

protected by European, UK and Scottish Law whichmeans we must consider impact on otters whenplanning forest operations.

Due to the widespread distribution of otters inDumfries & Galloway we assume that any stream,river or loch is likely to be within an otter territory.We carry out field surveys regularly to search forsigns of otters, such as footprints and spraints and if

OtterWatch “

The Legacy of Ring ofBrightwater

The tremendous appeal of otters isfrequently traced back to the publicationof a book by Gavin Maxwell, a renowned

naturalist from Wigtownshire whose childhoodhome was Monreith House, just a few milesfrom the Galloway Forest Park near PortWilliam.

His famed book ‘Ring of Brightwater’, latermade into a film, is hailed as a masterpiece andis thought to have influenced a generation ofnaturalists. It tells the story of Maxwell’srelationship with the natural world of the westcoast of Scotland, in particular the story of anotter he rescued named Mij.


Each of the three visitor centres in theGalloway Forest Park – Kirroughtree,Clatteringshaws and Glentrool – offer a

warm and welcoming place to relax and unwind,and to enjoy tasty food and refreshments incomfortable surroundings.

Hospitality and local flavours will be the focus ofthe new catering team at Kirroughtree VisitorCentre. Family run business Churchill Catering hasbeen selected to operate the restaurant atKirroughtree, and the tasty new menu offers visitorsan excellent choice of delicious food and temptingoffers, including hands-on baking, freshly madeevery morning.

Churchill Catering have an excellentunderstanding of the Forestry Commission and they are keen to extend their forestry expertise toKirroughtree. They operate catering servicesthroughout the UK, including other ForestryCommission sites such as Silvan House – theForestry Commission headquarters in Edinburgh,Grizedale Forest Park in the Lake District, High

Lodge in Thetford Forest and Jeskyns CommunityWoodland in Kent.

The company philosophy is based on fresh andlocal, believing that each restaurant should servefood that represents flavours and tastes of the localarea, with a target of sourcing 70% of the menucontent from within the locality.

Seasonal EventsEaster at KirroughtreeSunday 5th April, 1pm -2pm at Kirroughtree VisitorCentre. Join us for our annual Easter fun atKirroughtree. Will you spot the Easter bunny outand about in the Galloway Forest Park during theEaster weekend this year? Free.

Treemendous Thursdays!Every Thursday at 2pm during July and August Location: various please check online nearer thetime for locations. Join Forestry CommissionScotland staff to discover more about the wonderfulwildlife that lives in Galloway’s forests. This event is

ideal for children aged 5-11. This event is free ofcharge to attend, but car parking charges do apply.

Halloween at Kirroughtree Friday 30th (aged 14+), 7pm - 9pm & Saturday 31st(Family), 6.30pm - 8.30pm, at Kirroughtree VisitorCentre. If you go down to the woods this Halloweenyou’re in for a very big surprise! Scare yourself sillyand discover what spooky things we have plannedfor Halloween this October. Charges apply. Formore information visit our websiteforestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark

Christmas at Kirroughtree Sunday 6th & Sunday 13th, 10am - 3.30pm,December at Kirroughtree Visitor Centre. Visit Santain his winter grotto at Kirroughtree. Soak up thewarm festive atmosphere to kick start yourChristmas break. Charges apply. For moreinformation about Santa’s time at Kirroughtreeplease visit our websiteforestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark

New flavours at Kirroughtree Visitor Centre

Open from 10am, Feb – end OctRainton, Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2DR tel: 01557 815 222 e: [email protected] www.creamogalloway.co.uk

Try our brilliant GoBoing, pedal karts, flying fox,

adventure playground, nature trails, events and

activities, plus our new Mini Play Zone for the little

ones! Then indulge in a delicious ice cream, there

are around 30 flavours to choose from!

Deliciouslygood fun!

Discovering Cally Woods


The Cally Woods at Gatehouse of Fleet arewell known for their carpet of snowdrops atthe start of the year, followed by a brilliant

haze of bluebells in May. Throughout the year theyare a haven for red squirrels, with roe deer, otterand badgers regularly making an appearance too.

Nestled within Cally Woodsare a multitude of interestingbuildings, archaeological sitesand landscape features, and amysterious ruin in the heart ofthe woods is the focus of anew project which isencouraging more people toconnect with this beautifulwoodland.

The Cally Temple Project hasreceived Heritage Lottery Fundsupport to conserve and tell the story of CallyTemple, an important B listed Neo-Gothic structurebuilt in 1779. The Temple once looked out across theelegantly laid out parkland of Cally House, and itwas built to impress; the elegant 2 storey building isan important feature of the Designed Landscape ofCally.

The Cally Temple Project is the latest in a series ofprojects undertaken by Gatehouse DevelopmentInitiative which, working with Forestry CommissionScotland, has raised over £100,000 in recent years torestore important features of the Cally Woods andthe Designed Landscape of Cally, making Cally a real

gem in in the Forestry Commission’s estate inDumfries & Galloway.

In recent years many of the boundary walls havebeen rebuilt and unusual features like ha-has andthe unique sunken dyke restored. The old school atCally Lake has been conserved, the mediaeval motte

has been cleared of trees andlocal volunteers have helped tomaintain the network of paths, allof which help make the CallyWoods an enjoyable andinteresting place to visit.

The latest funding is allowingthe structure of Cally Temple to befully consolidated, protecting andmaintaining it for futuregenerations. Information boardswill also be installed to tell the

story of the Temple and its place in the DesignedLandscape of Cally.

An exhibition is planned in Mill on the Fleet thisyear and a literary project, called Cally Voices, isbeing organised by local writer and poet Liz Niven.Liz is hosting creative writing workshops relating tothe Cally Temple project and she is keen toencourage visitors and local people to put pen topaper and express their experience of visiting CallyWoods or the Temple. Creative submissions, suchas poems, stories, drawings and photographs, areinvited. To take part simply email your work [email protected] during 2015.

ROuNDHOuSELOCH DOON

THE

Come and see our new resident ospreys at Loch Doonopposite the Roundhouse. Spotting scopes provided for

public use to view these magnificent birds. Fresh GroundCoffee, Tea, Hot and Cold Snacks, Selection of Cakes, Ices

and Confectionery. Remember it’s FREE fishing andcamping at Loch Doon!

Inside Seating Area. Customer Toilets. Free customer Parking.Come to Loch Doon Dalmellington KA6 7QE

Just off the A713 with spectacular views over theloch ... the Northern access to the Galloway Forest Park

Open 7 days Apr til Oct 9am til 6pm (Osprey viewing Apr til Sep)if the weather’s great we’re open til 8pm

Winter Opening Saturday/Sunday 10.30am til 4.30pm Like us on facebook ... ‘visit loch doon’

Jim

Log

an

Drumroamin FarmCamping & Caravan Site

1 South Balfern, Kirkinner, Newton Stewart

Tel: 01988 840613 or 0775 247 1456

www.drumroamin.co.uk

Friendly and privately owned site withopen, level and well drained field.

Fine views of Wigtown Bay andsurrounding hills. Modern heated

toilet/shower block.

Barend Holiday Village, Sandyhills, DG5 4NUTel: 01387 780663 www.barend.co.uk

Barend Holiday Village

Open all year3 day minimum, any day of entry

Cosy, comfy, log cabins with indoorheated pool & sauna, pub & restaurant,bike wash facilities on site; wifiinternet access.

From£260for 4 people for 3 nights


Fishing at Loch Grannoch

Red DeerRange Events

If you’ve ever had a hankering for spending a day by the side of a lochhoping you land the big one, these Ranger led events are the perfectintroduction to the art of fishing.

Taking place at Loch Grannoch in the Galloway Forest Park, thesefishing events are one of the few opportunities you’ll have to catchspectacular wild brown trout at this loch, with fishing permits hererestricted to these occasional fishing events.

Suitable for novices as well as fishing enthusiasts. Fishing tackle can beprovided if required. Booking is essential as places are strictly limited.

2015 Fishing Events:Sunday 5th July Sunday 9th AugustSunday 6th September Sunday 20th September

Location: Meet at the Riverside car park located at the start of theRaiders Road Forest Drive near Clatteringshaws. (map - E7)To book call: 01671 402 420. Cost: £10 per person.

Horse Riding in theGalloway Forest Park

The Galloway Forest Park is an ideal place to explore on horseback.There is open access for horse-riders on all forest roads and as theroads are not way marked it’s worth taking a bit of time to plan your

own route.You can’t beat a gentle springtime hack through bluebell woods,

watching wildlife from the saddle, or an exhilarating canter through a carpetof crisp autumn leaves. Whether you’re looking for a couple of hours ride, achallenging trek, a day of adventure or a full weekend exploring stunningscenery, take time to discover the wealth of opportunities for horse ridingwithin the Galloway Forest Park.

Get up close and personal with the UK’s largest land mammals at theseunforgettable Ranger led events. You’ll meet and hand feed thesebeautiful animals under the tutelage of an experienced Ranger, and

you’ll learn about the Galloway Forest Park’s herd of red deer and how theRed Deer Range is managed.

Meet the Deer events take place regularly throughout spring and summer.Events during October are an opportunity to watch the drama of rutting seasonand see the Roaring Stags.

Meet the DeerApril-June: Wednesday and Thursday at 10am July-August: Sunday-Thursday at 10am September: Wednesday and Thursday at 10am

Join our friendly Rangers on a guided tour to discover the fascinating world ofScotland’s largest land mammal. You’ll get fantastic views of these amazinganimals! Events last around one hour. Location: Galloway Red Deer Range (map - E7). Cost: £5 adults; Children (under 16yrs) £3. Or Family ticket (2 adultsand 2 children) £12.

Roaring stagsFirst Sunday in October. 10am atGalloway Red Deer Range.

Who will be crowned Monarch of theDeer Range this year? Watch thedrama unfold during this exciting timein the red deer’s calendar. Event lastsaround one hour. Cost: £5 adults;Children (under 16yrs) £3. Or Familyticket (2 adults and 2 children) £12

Rutting Week Monday 5th - Friday 9th October

Join staff at the Deer Range hide foran informal chat about Red Deer inAutumn and other wildlife to look out for at this time of the year. Drop inbetween 10 and 12noon. Location: Galloway Red Deer Range Cost: Free but donations welcome (donationsare used to buy bird food for feeding station at the Deer Range)

(Please note, for all events we can only accept payment by cash or cheque.)


Fishing Permits may be obtained from any of the following outlets:

Horse access points with space for horse boxes can be found throughout the Forest Park

1 Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre Tel 01644 420285(Open from 21st March)

2 Geoff Shaw, Kirriereoch Tel 01671 840288

3 Glentrool Visitor Centre Tel 01671 840302(Open from 21st March)

4 Robert Ryman, Glenrazie Lodge Tel 01671 403560

5Galloway Forest Park Office,Creebridge, Newton Stewart Tel 01671 402420

6Kirroughtree Visitor Centre Tel 01671 402165(Open throughout the year)

7 The Breakpad, Tel 01671 401303 Kirroughtree Visitor Centre

8 D & W Countryways, 19-21 Albert St,Newton Stewart DG8 6EF

Tel 01671 403224

9 Straiton Stores, Straiton Tel 01655 770208

10 Ayr Road Garage, 7 Ayr Road,Dalmellington Tel 01292 550487

11 Gamesport of Ayr, 60 Sandgate, Ayr KA7 1BX Tel 01292 263822

12 McCowan & Son, 50-52 King Street, Castle Douglas Tel 01556 502009

13 Galloway Angling Centre, 1 Queen Street, Newton Stewart Tel 01671 401333

14 Pets Aquarium, 124 Main Street, Prestwick KA9 1PB (not on map) Tel 01292 477863

15 Glenafton Stores, Mossdale, Castle Douglas, DG7 2NF Tel: 01644 450281

• Weekly permits to fish all lochs except LochDee & Loch Bradan: £35

• Annual permit to fish all waters except LochDee & Loch Bradan: For coarse fishing – £50,for trout and coarse fishing – £75

• Conditions for fishing are printed on permitsand can be supplied on request

• The use of live bait, prawns or shrimps is notpermitted

• To conserve salmon and sea trout we operatea catch and release policy

• Annual permits are only available fromGalloway Forest Park Office, Creebridge,Newton Stewart. Please provide a passportsized colour photo and two separate forms ofidentity – e.g. driving licence/passport plus arecent utility bill with your address on

OPEN SEASON• Trout and salmon: 15th March to 30th

September. Season ends early to conservespawning fish

• Pike, Perch, Tench, Rudd: Open all year• Stroan Loch: Easter to 28th October • Loch Bradan is stocked with Brown Trout.

The other trout lochs are wild Brown Trout • Fishing is only allowed between 8am and

1 hour before sunset, except on Palnure Burnwhere fishing may continue after dusk

• The use of barbless hooks for all coarse fish isencouraged

• Please remove all litter including line and bait• For Brown Trout a minimum landing size of

9 inches (23cm) is encouraged• A bag limit of 1 fish is encouraged• If you see pollution please contact SEPA

Pollution Report Line: 0800 80 70 60

Horse riding is covered by the ScottishOutdoor Access Code and you are welcome

to use the forest roads. With access rights comeresponsibilities – please consider other forestusers who may be exercising their access rightsincluding walkers and cyclists by taking thefollowing precautions:

LOCHSLOCH BRADAN 3 3 £8 £4LOCH DEE 3 3 3 £20 £20BLACK LOCH (Fly preferred) 3 3 £8 £4LOCH OF THE LOWES (Fly preferred) 3 £8 £4LILLIES LOCH (Fly preferred) 3 £8 £4SPECTACLE 3 3 3 3 3 £6 £3GARWACHIE 3 3 3 3 £6 £3LOCH ELDRIG 3 3 3 £6 £3STROAN LOCH 3 3 3 £6 £3LINFERN LOCH 3 £6 £3

RIVERSPALNURE BURN (West bank 3 3 3 £8 £4only above Craignine fields)WATER OF MINNOCH 3 3 £8 £4(Above Kirriereoch bridge to end June – max 6 rods per day. Permits only from outlets 2 and 5)WATER OF MINNOCH 3 3 £10 £5(Above Kirriereoch bridge July to October – max 6 rods per day. Permits only from outlets 2 and 5)

Junior Rate

Daily Permit

Charge

Fly only

Easy access

Sea Trout

Salmon

Tench, RuddRoach

PerchPike

Brown Trout

Stocked

1 Avoid damaging the ground by riding on firm orhard surfaces, such as wide paths and tracks andwell-drained ground.

2 Remember that horse riding on narrow routesmay cause problems for other people, such aswalkers and cyclists – take extra care and giveway to walkers where possible or use analternative route.

3 If you are riding off-path, particularly in winter,take care to avoid going onto wet, boggy orsoft ground, and avoid churning up the surface.

4 Take care not to alarm farm animals andwildlife, particularly if you go round a fieldmargin. Do not go into fields where there aregrazing horses or animals that might be adanger.

No natural minnow fishing on any Forestry waters. More details,fishing availability, and online booking can be found on the FishGalloway website at www.fishpal.com/Scotland/Galloway


Galloway Forest Park



The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphereencompasses the landscape, wildlife, cultureand communities in and around the Galloway

Forest Park, while the Dark Sky Park celebrates theexceptionally dark skies above us. Bothdesignations challenge us to look anew at whatsurrounds us, and agroundbreakingecological art project,launched last year,provides a practicalway to change ourperspective and,through doing so,discover somethingnew.

The RosnesBenches project wasinitiated by locallybased artsorganisation Wide Open, and it was carried out byDundee based artists Matthew Dalziel and LouiseScullion. Inspired by Nature Deficit Disorder, theidea that modern lifestyles harm health andwellbeing by disconnecting people with nature, theconcept of a recumbent bench was born.

For artist Louise Scullion the process of consultingwith communities, getting to know the landscapeand understanding the experience of the forest wasessential in developing the benches. She said:

“As we got to know the lay of the land the actualdesign of the benches kept shifting and improvingover that time. The benches represent an idea thatwe had been shaping for a while; art objects thatchange behaviour and influence how a person mightmove through and interact with a landscape.”

There are 30 benches in total installed in groups of four, three or two in twelve locations aroundDumfries & Galloway’s Dark Skies Park and UNESCOBiosphere. Each site was chosen for the verydifferent experiences they offered to a visitor, totrigger people’s senses in a multitude of ways,perhaps through the sound of nearby water, views

of huge day and night-time sky-scapes, or the noiseof the wind through the trees and grasses.

The artists worked with Forestry CommissionScotland and with Scottish Natural Heritage toidentify these special places and the final sites wereimmensely varied, presenting some interesting

challenges for theinstallation team whosecured the benches inall manner of groundconditions; from solidgranite to 15 foot deeppeat bogs!

For ForestryCommission Scotland’sHead of Tourism,Recreation &Communications inGalloway, Keith Muir, theproject presented an

unexpected opportunity to connect the Dark SkyPark with the Biosphere project in a tangible way.

“A few years ago if you had asked me how aconnection could be madebetween a Dark Sky Parkand a Biosphere I wouldhave looked at you in avery strange way. Both areinternationally recogniseddesignations, but bothaddressing very differentexperiences. This uniqueenvironmental art projectin the Galloway Forest Parkhas made that connection in a simple and elegantway and it is a joy to see people interacting with theunique perspective the benches offer.”

The form of the bench evokes a long history ofobjects designed around the human form, they alsoacknowledge the history of the deliberate placingand siting of objects within the landscape, from cupand ring marks on constellations of recumbentstones across the whole of Europe and beyond, to

Look Up

contemporary cairns marking high summit pointsthroughout our hills.

To visit the benches is to visit a variety of specialplaces, the benches can be used as a conduitbetween the person and the place, to tune into themulti-sensory landscape that is animated by swayingtree canopies overhead, radiant sky-scapes, rhythmsof water falls and rivers and the scent of resinouspine trees carried in the wind. On a clear nightpeople lying on the sensory benches will be able tosee up to 7,000 stars and planets and the great arcof the Milky Way.

Matthew Dalziel said: “The Rosnes Benches havea profound effect on people when they try them.That’s because when you lie down, you slow down

and engage your sensesin a different way. Youbecome aware of thingslike the breeze, the sky,the scents from plantsand the sounds aroundyou.”

The Rosnes Benchesprovide a uniqueopportunity to

experience existing inthe moment, not thinking forward or looking back,but fully part of and immersed in the complex andmulti faceted relationships we have with theBiosphere around us, the nature and the vibrantecology we are a vital part off.

Louise added: “Now all thirty are in place and it’sgreat to see them in use and surrounded by summergrasses, for us it was a project that was a realprivilege to work on.”

Want to go on a tour of the universe? Join one of these family friendly Dark Skyevents.

Stargazing for BeginnersSat 10th OctoberLocation: Clatteringshaws Visitor CentreJoin staff for an informal tour of the starstudded night sky in the UK’s first Dark SkyPark. Charges apply. Booking essential: 01644 420285

Moon WatchSaturday 24th October Location: Clatteringshaws Visitor CentreIs the moon an egg?! Charges apply.Booking essential: 01644 420285

Stargazing for BeginnersSat 7th November &Sat 12th December Location: Kirroughtree Visitor CentreJoin staff for an informal tour of the starstudded night sky in the UK’s first Dark SkyPark. Charges apply. Booking essential: 01671 402 165

Dark Sky Events

“Look up to the sky.You’ll never find rainbowsif you’re looking down.”

Charlie Chaplin


The Galloway Forest Park is right in the heartof Scotland’s first UNESCO Biosphere, aninternational designation awarded in

recognition of a balanced relationship betweenman and nature. It recognises an area’s potentialto become a world class place for involvingcommunities who have a passion for living andworking to benefit people and nature.

The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biospherehas an amazing combination of landscape, wildlifeand culture so it is easy to see why people careabout their surroundings. A good place to startexploring the biosphere is by taking a close lookdown; looking at the ground under your feet andwhat lies beneath.

The wetlands are afascinating place to start– in fact the wetter thebetter!

Water is essential tolife. Not only does therain captured on theGalloway Hills give usclean drinking water butit also creates wetlandhabitats to support precious wildlife. Bogs, burns,lochs and rivers all host an amazing variety ofwildlife.

Wherever you go in the Galloway Forest Park youdon’t have to walk far before you find a boggy areawhere multi-coloured carpets of sphagnum mossthrive. Seen up close they are beautiful and theirspongy form means they are able to hold up toeight times their own weight in water.

The sundew is another strange and beautifulplant often found on the edge of nutrient poor bogpools. Although tiny, it is unmistakable with reddishleaves and hairs with glistening droplets whichattract and trap insects to supplement its diet.

Too large to be trapped by sundews, colourfuldragonflies zoom over wetlands feeding on otherinsects. There are 15 species of breeding dragonflyand damselfly in the Galloway and Southern AyrshireBiosphere. Some like the Azure Hawker prefercooler climates and are rarely seen even in the bogsin the Galloway Forest Park, while others like thebrightly patterned Common Hawker are frequentlyseen at Cairnsmore of Fleet and are so inquisitivethat they may well come close to get a good look

at you!Butterflies too thrive in

and around wetland areas.Some, such as the ScotchArgus, enjoy the coolerclimate of the area. Theycan often be seen in largenumbers in July dancingover moorland grasses atthe black grouse viewing

platform on the Carrick Forest Drive.Of course wetlands are more than just havens for

wildlife, they also provide valuable resources foreducation, recreation, energy production andagriculture in the newly designated Biosphere. Sothe next time you explore the Galloway Forest Parklook down and take a moment to consider the waterbeneath your feet and the rich, diverse andimportant habitat it helps to sustain.

Look Down

“Everywhere we look, thecomplex magic of natureblazes before our eyes.”

Van Gogh

There is a wide variety of walking and cyclingavailable in the Galloway Hills. Here are a fewsafety pointers to keep in mind.Plan Ahead – Choose a route that it isappropriate for the group’s fitness level andexperience.

Weather – The weather in the Galloway Hillscan change rapidly, always check a detailedforecast before setting out.

Clothing and Footwear – Conditions at the summits can be very different from those atthe base, so warm, windproof, waterproofclothing is essential.

Equipment – A map and compass are essential,and it’s vital that you know how to use them.

Food and Drink – Take plenty of supplies forthe group, and extra emergency rations.

Route Notification – Leave a note of yourproposed route with your host and an estimateof the time you expect to return, and use theGalloway Mountain Rescue online routenotification service.

On Your Walk – If you get lost don’t panic. Ifconditions allow try to seek a landmark whichyou can identify on the map. If not, and youhave shelter and warm clothing, then stay inyour position until help arrives.

For more information, take a look at theGalloway Mountain Rescue website,www.gallowaymrt.org.uk

Stay safeon the hills

AirdsFarmAirds Farm offers comfortable B&B & self-cateringaccommodation in a peaceful & scenic locationoverlooking Loch Ken and the Galloway hills.

Airds Farm, CrossmichaelCastle Douglas DG7 3BG

www.airds.com

t: 01556 670418e: [email protected]

Phytophthora Ramorum is afungus-like pathogen which causesextensive damage to trees.

This devastating disease isaffecting larch trees right acrossBritain, and Galloway has beenparticularly badly hit by it.

There is no cure and the only thingwe can do is fell any trees affectedby the disease to try to prevent itspreading.

You can also help to reduce the riskof it spreading by ensuring thatyour boots, bike tyres and carwheels are clean before leaving theforest. This will minimise the riskof any spores being transported inthe mud.

About PhytophthoraRamorum


Larch Felling in theGalloway Forest Park

If you read the last issue of the Ranger you willknow that the vast majority of Larch trees in theGalloway Forest Park have been infected with a

devastating disease called Phytophthora Ramorum. Since it was first

discovered around twoyears ago my team havespent the bulk of their timefelling the infected treesaround the perimeter of theinfected zone to reduce therisk of spread from theairborne spores the diseaseproduces. Recently howeverwe have had to change ourstrategy to deal with the increasing risk of deadstanding trees.

Due to the vast scale of harvesting needed andthe time required to deal with this problem, some ofthe older dead trees have started to become brittle,which means there is an increased risk of the topsfalling out of them. We are now prioritising areasaround the main recreation sites whenever possibleto minimise any risk to visitors from dead trees.

Unfortunately this means that for the next year orso we will be working in and around the same areasyou want to be in. For your own safety can youplease remember modern harvesting machines arevery efficient at felling trees but they can bedangerous.

We will try to keep the paths and bike trails clearbut there may be times when we have no alternativebut to divert or even close some paths and trails for

a short time. For your safety we will put up signs towarn of the dangers and I would strongly advise thatyou follow the guidance given. This will help us workthese areas as quickly and safely as possible, leaving

you to enjoy them in peace. If you inadvertently find yourself on

a harvesting site please stand wellback from the machine and wait untilthe operator has seen you. If you needto go through the site he will thenindicate when it is safe to proceed.Alternatively turn back and use adifferent path for that visit. Thechances are this one will be clear thenext time you come back. Never

approach a machine that is working in the forest. We will update our website regularly so people

can hopefully plan their day without surprises.Thank you for your cooperation and enjoy all of

your visits to the Galloway Forest Park.

by Colin Moffat, Harvesting Forester, Galloway Forest District


‘Timeless Timber’ created from felled Larch

What happens next?

The 80,000 tonnes of larch felled in theGalloway Forest Park in 2014 is now beingturned into valuable wood products and sold

across the world. Althoughdisease is the reason thelarch trees were felled, thetimber from these treesgenerally remains sound andby working closely with alocal sawmill the value ofthis precious wood isretained.

Local sawmill BSWDalbeattie, the UK’s largestsingle site sawmill, is thedestination for most of the larch we are harvestingfrom the Galloway Forest Park. When the scale of

the Phytophthora Ramorum problem and theresulting felling required first became apparent,Forestry Commission Scotland worked closely with

BSW Dalbeattie tojointly plan how bestthe timber could beprocessed and used.

Larch is a veryresinous timber,which makes itparticularly durableand well suited toexterior use such asfencing, cladding andlandscaping sleepers.

The scale of the larch felling means that larchprocessing currently makes up around 16% of BSW

Dalbeattie’s throughput. This has had a hugeimpact on the business, with new processesneeding to be introduced alongside carefulproduction planning.

While the ‘co-products’ of the timber processing,such as needles and bark, are used as biomass fuelonsite at the sawmill, the sawn timber, whichcarries no risk of spreading diseased spores, formspart of a range of timber products named ‘TimelessTimber’. Much of this timber is being exported toChina where there is significant demand for larch.

From the tragedy of felling Galloway’s larch treesbeautiful new products, gardens and buildings arebeing constructed around the world and, as a result,the Galloway Forest Park’s larch trees are beingused for a wide range of purposes and will givepleasure for decades to come.

Felling trees is only one part of a long term approach to managing tree health andmaintaining the biodiversity of the forest. Once these infected larch trees havebeen felled the areas will be left fallow for three years before any replanting

takes place. While this could mean some areas of the forest may look sparse for a few years,

waiting has many benefits. Perhaps the most important is that because thePhytophthora Ramorum spores can live in soil for several years, waiting reduces the riskof infection of newly planted trees. Leaving sites for at least three years after felling alsoreduces the risk of newly planted trees being attacked by weevils which can eat the barkand often kill small trees.

It also gives the forest an opportunity to regenerate itself. During the three yearsbetween felling and replanting new trees may establish themselves on these felled sitesthrough natural regeneration, which is always encouraging to see.

After three years have passed the areas that have been felled will be replanted with arange of conifer and broadleaved species. This will increase the species diversity in theforest and it will ultimately result in a more natural looking forest, with great benefit towildlife as well as providing a more attractive forest for visitors to explore and enjoy.


Birds in FocusPopulations of two endangered birds of prey

are soaring in Galloway, with reintroductionprogrammes, strict breeding site protection

and education all playing important roles inhelping Red Kites and Ospreys to thrive.

On the trail of Red Kites The re-establishment of red kites in Galloway is a

wonderful example of a successful re-introductionof a species to an area. Red kites were first releasedinto Galloway by RSPB Scotland in 2001, withsupport from Scottish Natural Heritage and ForestryCommission Scotland. These beautiful birds of preywere once a common sight, but in Victorian timesthey were persecuted to extinction across most ofthe UK.

A magnificent and graceful bird of prey, red kitesare a similar size to buzzards but with longer wings,a reddish-brown body and a long forked tail. Theyare often seen in flight above open country, glidingeffortlessly on the wind. Red kites are naturalscavengers, they eat mainly carrion, such as roadkill,and worms, but they are opportunistic birds and willoccasionally take small mammals too.

The reintroduction of red kites to this area tookplace between 2001-2005 with a total of 104 youngbirds released on the eastern edge of the GallowayForest Park near Loch Ken. They have since doneremarkably well and are becoming a regular sightaround the forest, continuing to grow in numbers

and to spread across the region. Thanks to thesupport of land owners, gamekeepers, tenantfarmers and local communities, red kites are nowbreeding extensively in the area, with over 80 pairsnesting in 2014.

Where to see Red Kites Red Kite Trail: A circular 24 mile route around

Loch Ken, with an additional 14 mile loop taking youinto the Galloway Forest Park along the Raiders’Road in summer (April to October). The trail offers apleasant drive or cycle ride and a series of shortwalks to explore Galloway’s countryside and findout more about the kites and other wildlife. Pick upa free trail guide leaflet from various outlets orcheck www.gallowaykitetrail.com

Kite Feeding Station: AtBellymack Hill Farm, nearLaurieston, you canexperience the spectacle ofa ‘kettle’ of kites, with 50 ormore kites gathering to feedeach afternoon. It’s anincredible sight, with anexcellent viewing area and awelcoming café in the visitorcentre at this privately-runfarm. The best time to visitis at 2pm when some raw meat is put out to attractthese social scavengers. When the feeding begins

your view of the birds is breathtaking, as you’llwatch them swooping down in front of the viewingplatform repeatedly for more than an hour.Admission charges apply for adults but children can visit for free and RSPB Scotland are often inattendance to provide viewing advice andinformation on the kites and other wildlife in the area.

Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre: RSPB Scotlandwill be making morning visits to Clatteringshawsregularly throughout 2015 to help visitors find outmore about red kites as well as other birds andcreatures. Special events will also be organised toprovide close encounters of creatures lurkingamongst the undergrowth or in the loch. Details ofdates will be listed on www.gallowaykitetrail.com

The rise of the OspreyA spectacular fish eating

bird of prey, osprey areslowly becoming a familiarsight across Galloway withtheir distinctive black andwhite appearance andcharacteristic flight. Thereare now eleven knownoccupied nest sites acrossGalloway and the Galloway

Forest Park and, with careful protection, numbersare gradually increasing.

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Approaching nests for any reason requires alicence from Scottish Natural Heritage and the landowners permission, this includes photographingschedule 1 birds at, on or near to nests. Without a

licence you are committing an offence. While theuse of pop-up wildlife hides has become morepopular in recent years, this does not mitigateagainst disturbance or the need for a licence.

Protected Birdsand the Law !


Ospreys are outstanding fishers and fish make upalmost all their diet. This means that ospreys aremost often found near rivers and lochs, diving tothe water surface topluck fish from thewater with theirmagnificent curvedclaws.

Osprey in theGalloway ForestPark

Initially thought to beextinct as a breedingbird in Scotland by 1916,it’s now thought thatosprey wereoccasionally breeding in very low numbers athighly secret sites,including Galloway, in the late 1930s. Re-colonisation of thespecies is thought tohave begun in theHighlands in the mid-1950s and since then the osprey population hasslowly increased. Records for Galloway indicate abreeding attempt in 1974 but then none until a nestwas found in 2001, followed by the first successfulosprey breeding in Galloway in 2002.

A pair of these magnificent birds settled in theGalloway Forest Park on an artificial nestingplatform in 2009, and while breeding success hasbeen patchy, population numbers have continued

to grow, and last year saw seven nest sites occupiedin the Galloway Forest Park. Of those seven nests,three of them fledged seven chicks between them,

with a fourth nest laying 3 eggsbut failing, possibly due todisturbance.

Spreading their wingsThe chicks fledged in Galloway

are ringed with coloured ‘Darvic’rings by local Raptor Study Groupvolunteers. These rings helpobservers across the worldidentify individuals both in termsof migration and populationdynamics. For example, in 2014we know a fledgling from a nestin the Galloway Forest Parkcaught an eel at a reserve inSpain, and it has also told us thata young male chick reared in theForest Park has become abreeding bird in the small Welshbreeding population.

Forestry Commission Scotlandwill

continue to work with thelocal Raptor Study Groupsto identify suitable locationsto build new breedingplatforms across theGalloway Forest Park, tosupport the growth of theosprey population acrossour region.

Where to see Osprey The best place to look for

osprey is always around feeding locations, ratherthan near nesting sites. As osprey are fish eatersyou will most likely find them near to watercourses,such as lochs and rivers, and a good place to seekthem is Clatteringshaws or Loch Ken.

Please remember that many species, such as

Watch onthe Web

osprey, are rare and very sensitive to disturbanceduring the breeding season, as disturbance candirectly affect breeding success.

Supporting Common Woodland BirdsIt’s not just the magnificent birds of prey that are

given a helping hand in the Galloway Forest Park.The forest is home to thousands of commonwoodland birds and many of them are regularvisitors to feeding stations dotted around the forest.

Last year Forestry Commission Scotland invitedpupils from nearby Douglas Ewart High School tohelp improve our feeding stations at the new WildWatch Hide at Kirroughtree. They did a tremendousjob, designing and making two large wildlife feedingtables, some really useful bird feeders and around adozen bird boxes.

These are now being put to good use and thebirds love them, so much so that they’ve beenmaking much greater use of the feeders than weexpected, putting on some spectacular shows forvisitors to Kirroughtree.

The Wild Watch Hide is just a few minutes walkfrom Kirroughtree Visitor Centre and you can evenkeep an eye on what’s happening on the feeding

tables from within thevisitor centre thanks toa live camera link.

As well asKirroughtree,woodland bird feedingstations can be foundat Clatteringshaws andGlentrool VisitorCentres and at the RedDeer Range.

Frequent woodlandbird sightings at all the

feeders include Chaffinches, Nuthatch, Blue Tits,Goldcrest, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Coal Tits,Jays, Tree Creepers and Great Tits.

Regular visitors to the Kirroughtree feedingtables also include Red Squirrels, Roe Deer, SparrowHawk and ‘Vincent’ the Vole!

You can also keep up with the wildlife antics at Kirroughtree’s WildWatch Hide from the comfort of your own home by having a peek atthe webcam which can be found on the Forestry Commission Scotlandwebsite at www.scotland.forestry.gov.uk/activities/wildlife


CREEBRIDGECARAVAN PARK

One of the closest sites to the Galloway ForestPark and just minutes walk from the market

town of Newton Stewart

3 star friendly, family run parkHoliday caravans & chalets for hire and for sale,

all bedding provided • Tourers & tents always welcome

Minnigaff, Newton Stewart, DG8 6AJTel: 01671 402324 www.creebridgecaravanpark.comEmail: [email protected]

A naturally inspiringplace to visit

We have a fantastic display of gems, crystals, minerals and fossils - a collection ofunique and breathtaking creations from all over the world. Enter the Professor’sstudy and cafe to relax or research, savour our homebaking in the tearoom beforewatching the audio visual presentation “The Fire in the Stones”. Then experiencethe amazing Crystal Cave. Finally, to complete your day, visit our unique gift shop.

10% DISCOUNT

ON ADMISSIONS

FOR 2015

BRING THIS ADVERT!

The Gem Rock Museum, Chain Road, Creetown, Dumfries and Galloway, DG8 7HJ, Scotland Tel: 01671 820 357

Open: Apr to Sep every day 9.30am – 5.30pm, Oct every day 10am – 4pm,Nov to Mar 5 days Wed to Sun 10am – 4pm

For more information visit www.gemrock.net

AFTER A DAY IN THE FOREST VISIT OUR FANTASTIC TEAROOM. SAVOUR THE FLAVOURS OF OUR RENOWNED BAKING, QUALITY TEAS AND COFFEES.

GEM & CRYSTAL DISPLAYS • GEM CUTTING WORKSHOP • PROFESSOR’S STUDY THE AMAZING CRYSTAL CAVE • AUDIO VISUALS • GIFT SHOP

an experience you’ll treasure forever!

Visit LoganBotanic GardenScotland’s most exotic GardenNew Logan Conservatory | Potting Shed Bistro Gift Shop | Plant Sales | Guided Walks and EventsOpen daily from 10�am | 15 March to 31 October | Sundays in FebruaryAdmission: Adult £6 | Concession £5 | Children under 16 go freeIncludes small voluntary donation to the Garden. For entry prices without donation please see website.

14 miles south of Stranraer, o� the B7065, Port Logan, Stranraer, DG9 9ND

Tel 01776 860231 | www.rbge.org.uk/logan

Part of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a charity registered in Scotland (no SC007983)

famous for its long high street filledwith independent retailers, many ofthem independent food stores. OnCastle Douglas Food Town Day thereare lots of treats to indulge in,including foodie attractions, cookingdemos, tasters and hog roasts. www.cd-foodtown.org

Kirkcudbright Jazz FestivalThu 11 – Sun 14 Jun 2015Kirkcudbright, various venuesA 4 day celebration of Trad New Orleans,Dixieland and Swing Jazz, the eighteenthKirkcudbright Jazz Festival swings intoaction in June. Check out the wide line-up of bands on the festival’s website –and don’t miss the “jazz dine around” oneach of the Festival evenings, with smallgroups providing music for diners in localrestaurants.www.kirkcudbrightjazzfestival.co.uk

Kirkcudbright Art & Crafts TrailFri 31 Jul – Mon 3 Aug 2015Kirkcudbright, various venuesPart of Kirkcudbright’s Summer

Festivities programme, this familyfriendly event that takes you intohidden gardens, artists’ studios andhomes, where you can talk to artistsand find out what makesKirkcudbright so special to them. www.artandcraftstrail.co.uk

Wigtown Book FestivalFri 25 Sep – Sun 4 Oct 2015Wigtown, various venuesA 10 day literary celebration inScotland’s National Booktown, theWigtown Book Festival is nowrenowned as one of the best autumnfestivals in the world, with animpressive line-up of readings,performances and other events.www.wigtownbookfestival.com

Wild AutumnSat 10 Oct – Sun 1 Nov 2015 (tbc)Dumfries & Galloway, various venues A healthy and inspiring way toentertain children over the autumn halfterm, the annual Wild Autumn festivalhas dozens of events taking place. www.wildseasons.co.uk

Wild Spring FestivalSat 4 Apr – Mon 3 May 2015 Dumfries & Galloway, various venues Wild Seasons return with their popularspring wildlife festival. The annualevent will feature over 100 wildlifeevents. Look out for the newNocturnal Wildlife Tours.www.wildseasons.co.uk

WalkFestFri 8 – Thu 14 May 2015 Newton StewartWith 29 walk routes over 7 days, andguided routes for all abilities, thebiggest walking festival in the Southof Scotland offers more than just awalk in the hills, along the coast oramongst wonderful woodlands. www.newtonstewartwalkfest.co.uk

Dumfries & Galloway Arts FestivalFri 22 May – Sun 31 May 2015Dumfries & Galloway, various venuesthe Dumfries and Galloway ArtsFestival is Scotland’s largest ruralmulti-artform festival, with more than

170 artists performing at 60 events in30 venues across the full breadth ofthe region.www.dgartsfestival.org.uk

Spring FlingSat 23 – Sun 24 May 2015Dumfries & Galloway, various venues Renowned as the most successfulcontemporary visual art & craft openstudio event in Scotland and one ofthe best in the UK, Spring Fling bringsaround 10,000 of visitors from acrossthe world to artists’ studios inDumfries & Galloway, South WestScotland each year in Spring. Followan open studios trail, catch the SpringFling Bus, or join the official cycle ride. www.spring-fling.co.uk

Castle Douglas Food Town DaySat 6 Jun 2015Castle Douglas, various venuesDumfries & Galloway’s Food Town is

Festivals & Events


River Cree

Galloway Arms

Superstore

DashwoodSquare

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Church St

NewtonStewart

We arehere

Brand new town centre location!

• Parts • Accessories • Clothing • Bicycles for all ages

t: 01671 401529The Old Red Cross Hall, Victoria Lane, Newton Stewart DG8 [email protected] www.kirkcowancycles.co.uk

Open Mon-Sat 8:30am to 5:30pm all yearLate night opening Wed 8:30am to 8:30 pm

Bike Hire

The service you’ll receive in our family run bike shopis second to none, we stock an extensive range of

Our fully stocked workshop and excellent mechanic will help keepyou rolling and we’re happy to offer route planning and advice.

Our extensive hire fleet has bikes

for all ages and styles of cycling.

Kids bikes, mountain, hybrid and

electric bikes.

Rates Half Fullday day

Tag-a-long/seat £4 £6

Under 16’s £7 £12

Adults £10 £18

Electric £15 £25

Family £30 £54

(2 x kids, 2 x adults)

Kirkcowan Cycles


If you are aged 10 or under then enter our colouringcompetition for your chance to win a £10 book token.Drop your entry off at any of the visitor centres in theGalloway Forest Park. Closing date: 30th Nov 2015.

Name:

Age:

Address:

Postcode:

Our chosen winner last year was:Tom, age 9 from Faceby

Runner up: Sheila, age 10, from Drummore

Plus: draw on the sign and tell thedeer and the squirrel your favouriteplace in the forest parkColouring competition

For only £3 per month you can enjoy unlimited parkingin the Galloway Forest Park when you buy our annual

parking permit. Valid for 12 months from the date ofpurchase your annual parking permit gives you a perfectexcuse to enjoy the great outdoors all year round.

Parking permits cost £36 and can be purchased fromany Visitor Centre in the Galloway Forest Park. Best of allany parking fees you’ve already paid on the day ofpurchase will be deducted from the cost of your permit!

It’s great outdoors, so give yourself and your familythe gift of unlimited dog walks, unlimited family daysout, unlimited exploring and unlimited enjoyment in theGalloway Forest Park this year.

A Year of Great Days Out

Commended: Rhona, age 4 from Selkirk

Commended: Jenny, age 7 from West Yorkshire

Commended: Eilish, age 7 from Linlithgow

Documents

Galloway Ranger 2015