Several campfire scars have been discovered at Broadford Forest on Skye as forestry staff warn that irresponsible behaviour could have serious consequences during a period of heightened wildfire risk.
Forestry and Land Scotland has reported increasing evidence of campfires, littering and other irresponsible behaviour at sites across Skye and Lochalsh as the impact of the major Glenmore wildfire continues to be felt.
Staff recently discovered and cleared several separate fire pits from the Broadford Forest car park despite signs clearly stating that fires are not permitted.
The discovery comes after the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service issued warnings of very high wildfire risk across parts of Scotland.
Four picnic benches are provided at the Broadford car park, including two fitted with barbecue plates, but visitors have still been lighting fires elsewhere at the site.
Forestry staff also found evidence that wood or other fuel containing rusty nails, screws and metal staples had been burned.
The debris creates another potential danger for people using the forest as well as dogs and wildlife.
Forestry and Land Scotland Visitor Services Seasonal Ranger Erika O’Reilly said:
“At a time of heightened fire risks across the country, it is really disappointing to find a small number of people visiting our sites failing to observe signage and displaying a lack of awareness for the potential danger their actions could cause.
“We are seeing first-hand the devastating impact fires can have on Scotland’s and the UK’s natural environment.
“On top of the fire risk, it appears people are using wood or other fuel source that contains rusty nails, screws and metal staples, posing a potential hazard to other visitors, pets and wildlife.
“The Broadford site is popular with families, dog walkers and participants in the weekly Skinadin parkrun, making the discovery particularly concerning.”
The problem also creates additional work for forestry staff, with time and resources required to repair fire damaged areas and clear rubbish instead of carrying out planned work elsewhere.
Visitors are being asked to follow local signs and restrictions, avoid lighting fires and solid fuel barbecues and take all litter and waste home with them.
People using forests and other outdoor areas are also being encouraged to leave no trace of their visit.
Anyone discovering a wildfire should call 999 immediately and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.
Erika added:
“Even a small fire can have serious consequences.
“We want everyone to enjoy Scotland’s outdoors safely while helping to protect the landscapes and wildlife that make these places special.”
With the evidence of recent fires appearing while Scotland has already seen the damage a major wildfire can cause, the message for visitors to Skye and Lochalsh could hardly be clearer.
Enjoy the outdoors, but leave the matches at home.
