St. Catherines ForestCairndow, Cowal Peninsula, Argyll & Bute, PA25 8BB

The forest extends to 223 hectares planted on a coastal hillside. The lowest point is 10m asl, rising to 390m asl on the southern boundary. The site was originally planted with mixed conifers in the 1960s and 1970s but has been substantially restructured over the last decade, with felling and replanting carried out in phases between 2013 and 2019.

The current productive timber area is 140.58ha (63%). The recent commercial re-stocking is mainly Sitka spruce, which comprises 86% of the commercial crop area. There are pockets of mixed conifers including some Douglas fir. The young crop has been well managed and is exhibiting good tree form and growth rates. Owing to its young age, Yield Class has not yet been assessed. Some old Japanese larch planted in the 1860s has been retained.

The property includes areas of native broadleaves, principally following watercourses, but to greatest extent along the northern boundary. While some has been planted within the last 20 years, there is a sizeable (3.7ha) stand of mature oak dating back to 1850. In total, the 23.53ha of native broadleaves add to the species diversity and amenity across the site. This forest design species mix is compliant with the UK Forest Standard.

The forest includes 59ha of open ground, half of which comprises areas within the forest and around watercourses, and half of which is a block of unplanted hill land at the southern end of the property. Both areas add to habitat diversity and provide useful areas for deer control, the latter being through a stalking lease.

The site is accessed directly from the A815, which is an approved route for timber haulage. The road within the forest is in good condition.