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During
the First World War the need for home grown timber was recognised
and in 1919, led by Lord Lovat, the Forestry
Commission was established. The first plantings in the Great Glen
were carried out at Port Clair near Fort Augustus, on land aquired
from Lord Lovat. The Fort Augustus Forest District now covers over
62000 ha, over half of which is woodland. A large portion of the present
holding was bought within the first ten years of the Forestry Commission
between 1920 and 1930 with further purchases in the 1950/60 period.
During both periods the Commission provided a significant boost to
the area by giving employment to local people. |
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District is very suitable for tree growth, particularly the west being
wet and mild. Initially the aim was to produce as much timber as possible
and fast growing conifers were planted. Larch and native broadleaves
were used to diversify the landscape and to enhance appearance. Modern
forestry seeks to achieve a balance between timber production and
advantages such as improved amenity, recreation and wildlife conservation,
all of which benefits the area's major industry- tourism. Recreational
facilities include car parks, picnic sites and forest walks. |
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There
is a permanent orienteering course in Inchnacardoch Forest close to
Fort Augustus and a visitor centre at Farigaig. Long distance trails
from Fort William to Inverness, such as the Great Glen Cycle Route
and the Great Glen Walk created recently, all lead through Fort Augustus.
Glen Affric nearby contains a renowned Forest Reserve, one of the
countries largest areas of native Caledonian Pinewood. Many of the
trees are well over 300 years old, and attracting more than 60 000
visitors a year. |
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