Greenlaw farm leads way in wildlife work

Wildlife Estates Scotland accreditation was presented to Peter Leggate of Greenlawdean Farm, near Greenlaw.

Demonstrating impressive mixed farming, sporting and environmental management credentials, Greenlawdean Farm is now one of 34 farms and estates across Scotland to have been formally accredited since 2013.

WES is a national version of the EU Wildlife Estates (WE) label, developed by Scottish Land & Estates with advice from Scottish Natural Heritage, Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust and the Cairngorms National Park Authority. It has also received the support of the Scottish Government since its launch.

A traditional Borders arable farm, Greenlawdean undertook substantial conifer plantings in the 1970s. In recent times, the current owners have implemented extensive woodland management work to create new corridors for grazing, wild flower areas and fruiting trees to be planted.

Commenting on the award, owner Peter Leggate acknowledged the extraordinary effort made by everyone involved in the management of the farm.

Peter said: “The award of WES certification is a great thrill for all of the team who have brought these plans to life. Equally, we are determined to continue the good work and very much hope that our award at Greenlawdean will encourage other land managers to take part.

“We’d certainly welcome a visit from anyone who’s considering applying for WES accreditation.”

The work has been carried out whilst avoiding sensitive breeding and nesting seasons. With a good network of access tracks and rides around the Greenlawdean woods, logs can be extracted with little need to create any new tracks, helping to minimise timber forwarding journey time and fuel costs.

Open days are held on the farm, with particular emphasis on support for disabled children. Owners Peter and Jenny Leggate are dedicated supporters of Riding for the Disabled, with regular events held on Greenlawdean.

Ross Macleod of Wildlife Estates Scotland said: “The award to the team at Greenlawdean is thoroughly deserved in recognition of the outstanding work they do to balance the needs of a working farm with fantastic efforts on forestry, wildlife, habitat conservation, sporting management and community engagement.”