Rainforest Regeneration for Communities and Habitat in Western Scotland

Argyll and the Isles Coast Countryside Trust (ACT) works with local communities, agencies and organisations to preserve and enhance local environments and resources. This work has primarily focused on temperate rainforest regeneration in western Scotland , including several successful projects, particularly in Knapdale and Cowal. Current work focuses on landscape-scale rainforest restoration in collaboration with landowners, addressing key threats such as invasive non-native species and deer impacts.

This approach rests on collaboration. For example, during a large-scale rhododendron survey, ACT used drone technology to capture imagery and produce orthomosaics for mapping and analysis. As this was a relatively new application in the area, discussions with specialists helped refine data collection and interpretation. Engagement with landowners and community groups took place through in-person conversations, building trust and bringing together multiple landholdings into a coherent project area. One of these areas was owned and managed by the Tayvallich Initiative, a community company.

ACT also prioritises workforce development. Through rainforest delivery, the organisation has created new jobs and training opportunities, supporting the development of a skilled local workforce and generating opportunities for contractors and specialist practitioners. ACT hosts the Rainforest Volunteer Development Coordinator and has supported the development of a volunteer workstream, delivering micro-volunteering opportunities across the rainforest zone. This collaborative model strengthens training, education, outreach and volunteering, building long-term capacity within both communities and habitat.

Knowledge sharing is at the heart of this work. ACT established a Rainforest Forum for landowners and interested parties in Knapdale, hosted a Rhododendron demonstration day at our Kilmory Hub, and participated in specialist training, including lever and mulch techniques and biological recording. Lessons learned from drone surveying have been shared transparently through Alliance networks , with reflections on how future approaches could be refined.

In terms of forest technologies, ACT currently uses GIS mapping, drone surveys and mobile data collection tools, alongside essential ground-truthing to verify and interpret aerial data. Technology has improved safety and efficiency in challenging terrain, but physical access and on-the-ground expertise remain crucial. Looking ahead, safeguarding legacy outcomes such as rhododendron monitoring , regrowth reporting and long-term habitat condition tracking will be key areas where technology and community knowledge can work together.

ACT contributes to this wider effort as a partner in the Alliance for Scotland’s Rainforest, a unique collective for saving Scotland’s temperate rainforests. ACT maintains regular dialogue with partners, including Forestry and Land Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council, NatureScot and other environmental NGOs . This ensures alignment of objectives, reduces duplication and strengthens collective impact. A strong example is participation in the “Our Rainforest Futures” project, led by Woodland Trust.

While ACT makes a meaningful contribution to rainforest regeneration across western Scotland, it also delivers projects in peatland restoration, climate action, education, childcare and wellbeing, reflecting an integrated approach to environmental and community resilience.

Ultimately, ACT’s work reflects the motivations of rural communities who value their landscapes and see restoration as a public good. Community involvement is not an add-on but a foundation, ensuring that forest regeneration strengthens both ecological integrity and local resilience.