KTP National Trust Scotland (NTS) and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)

Currently the only accepted methods of protecting trees in the forestry and conservation sectors are by active removal of herbivores through culling or using physical barriers (tree guards and fences). However, physical barriers have a high landscape impact, create waste, have a high carbon footprint, and are expensive to erect & maintain. They can also be ineffective in winter due to snow build up and cause fatalities for bird species such as capercaillie and grouse resulting from collisions.

The Knowledge Transfer Partnership between The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) will develop a novel deterrent mechanism, utilising an innovative technological solution, to protect young trees from browsing by herbivores. This deterrent will have a low landscape impact, reduce costs compared to current practices, require less maintenance and be effective year-round.