Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority has launched an ambitious new Herbivore Management Delivery Plan (2025-2030) aimed at balancing sustainable land management, local food production and ecological restoration.
Wild and domestic herbivores including deer, sheep, and cattle, are central to the Park’s economy and heritage, yet 22 of the 65 designated nature sites are currently in unfavourable condition due to overgrazing.
The new plan seeks a more coordinated, evidence-led approach to grazing, ensuring both rural communities and the natural environment thrive.
The park’s director of environment and visitor services, Simon Jones said: "This plan isn't simply about reducing deer numbers or adopting a one-size-fits-all approach to herbivore management. Some areas need more grazing, others less. It's about achieving the right balance across the National Park's unique landscape through evidence-led approaches developed with the experience and stewardship of land managers and local communities."
Agriculture minister Jim Fairlie highlighted the benefits for local communities: "This plan shows that when we prevent damage from overgrazing with good planning we can also ensure that the local food production chain, tourism and wider rural economy can benefit alongside nature.
“We know that those who work on our land have been the custodians of it, often for generations, and the support being provided will mean that preserving the biodiversity will work hand in hand with sustaining the community.
Practical support measures already underway include:
- Training and incentives: A Deer Management Incentive Scheme and Deer Managers Training Grant provide funding and support for sustainable deer management.
- Venison infrastructure: New and upgraded community processing and larder facilities improve access to local deer processing and support Scottish Quality Wild Venison accreditation.
- Market development: Plans for a Loch Lomond Venison brand aim to boost local economic opportunities.
Early uptake has been strong, with 33 deer managers accessing training grants and 26 landholdings enrolled in the incentive scheme. Local farmer Shona Duncan, hosting a new community-based chiller trailer, said:
"It’s about reducing grazing pressure so we can protect our land and produce food more sustainably. Last year, we set aside land for an Agri-Environment scheme, but instead we had 70 or 80 red deer grazing it - probably the equivalent of 40 or 50 cattle. We’ve also had fences broken, dykes knocked down and crops damaged, which can make farming very difficult.
“As a landowner, it’s important to leave the land in good condition for the next generation. The new larder and support available should open up real opportunities for people to manage deer responsibly, while also benefiting the local community.”
The Delivery Plan stresses evidence-based decision-making and collaboration with land managers, statutory agencies and local stakeholders.
Key goals for 2030 include improved ecological condition, sustainable land management and stronger engagement between agencies and communities.
The plan also aims to support wider environmental benefits including woodland recovery, peatland protection, higher-quality food production, resilient rural economies and enhanced tourism opportunities.
The National Park Authority has partnered with Forestry and Land Scotland, NatureScot, Scottish Forestry, and the Association of Deer Management Groups to develop and oversee the plan which will be reviewed annually to incorporate new evidence and shared learning.
The full Herbivore Management Delivery Plan is available on the National Park’s website
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