In a bid to help ensure visitor safety during tree felling operations, Forestry Commission Scotland is advising everyone coming to Dunnottar and Denlethen forests to observe all signage.
Work at Denlethen will run for two weeks from 29th September and then again throughout November.
The Dunnottar felling work will begin on 6th October and will last for approximately 4 weeks.
Emily Holmes for Forestry Commission Scotland’s team in the Moray & Aberdeenshire said:
“These are working, sustainable forests that produce timber and fuel but they also offer a wide range of habitats and are great locations for some healthy outdoor recreation.
“The thinning work we’re doing will improve the range and health of habitats and will also make them more attractive places to visit but while we are working there, visitor safety is paramount.
“Some of the trails will be closed during this time – and we apologise in advance for any inconvenience – but it’s necessary so that the machines can work in the areas safely. It’s important that everyone observes the instructions on any signage that we put up. Because these are big, noisy machines and our team will not see people – or dogs! – that wander into the working area.
“It’s also quite scary how little warning you get when a tree is coming down!”
After the initial closure, some areas of the forest will not be accessible but diversions will be in place so that visitors can still enjoy walks around the forest.
