Grantee: Findhorn Hinterland Trust

Duration: 9 months (May 2026 to March 2027)

 

This project will build on previous habitat restoration work and improve baseline data on a nationally significant dune ecosystem.

Background

Findhorn dunes were once part of one of the largest sand dune systems in Europe. Human activity over the last one hundred years, principally the establishment of plantation forestry, has led to the direct loss of over 95% of the original dune ecosystem. Findhorn dunes (c.140ha) remain as a small isolated fragment, now threatened by scrub encroachment.

The Project

A series of measures will support nature recovery across the Findhorn Hinterland – an area of dune and woodland habitat of national conservation significance.

Around seventy species found here are of high priority for conservation action. Some species, such as Psammoporus insulari – a rare dung beetle endemic to the UK, are found at only a handful of places in Scotland.

The project will convert 0.35ha of dense gorse to 0.12ha of bare sand, surrounded by mulched gorse, using contractors and heavy machinery. New sand habitats are particularly important for rare invertebrates. The creation of new bare sand provides a habitat ‘reset’ providing vital new sand and shingle habitat. Two ecological surveys will be carried out to establish strategically important baseline data, on birds and vegetation. The project also includes baseline aerial photography of the whole site and a community engagement bat event.