Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is embarking on a sustained period of felling work in its productive forests across the Tweed Valley.

Forest users are advised to always observe safety signage and diversion signage, and to listen to members of staff working on-site. This is particularly important when felling work is being undertaken.

The work, which will affect an extensive area across the region, is part of FLS’ planned sustainable forest management programme, which contributes to the local and national timber supply chain and economy.

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Local teams have made every effort to ensure the large-scale operations will have minimal impact on recreational facilities, while putting public safety first. This will mean restrictions to access for some mountain bike trails, as well as other diversions.

FLS South Region deputy regional manager, Colin Binnie, said: “The forests in this region support a wide range of recreational activities offering health and wellbeing benefits for the public.

“However, productive forestry is a core priority for us, essentially because the income generated from timber sales funds the majority of FLS’ work.

“These trees have reached commercial maturity and need to be harvested as part of managing healthy and resilient forests. This is especially important to reduce the likelihood of significant disruption from storm damage.

“In the planning and operational phases, all efforts have been made to allow people to keep using most of the trails in the area while prioritising the health and safety of our staff, our contractors and all members of the public.”

He continued: “With the busier summer period approaching, we want people to be aware of the essential forestry work we are doing, adhere to the safety messaging, and continue to enjoy the vast majority of managed and promoted trails that remain open.”

It is anticipated that operations will be ongoing throughout 2024 and into the early part of 2025, and will impact access to sites including Glentress, Traquair, Caberston and Thornielee.