
Lowland Deer Panel
This expert panel will advise on the complex issues around managing deer in the lowlands.
This expert panel will advise on the complex issues around managing deer in the lowlands.
In 2018 NatureScot established a panel of deer experts to explore new approaches to deer management in the Scottish lowlands.
Many of us enjoy seeing wild deer close to our towns and cities. However, in some areas too many deer can result in damage to crops and woodland and an increase in road accidents.
The Lowland Deer Panel examined the complex issues related to deer management in the Scottish lowlands. Its work will contribute to the Scottish Government’s ongoing review of deer management across Scotland.
The panel’s aim was to maximise the benefits of deer for people and ensure that their numbers do not have an impact on conservation, agriculture or road safety. Key issues included:
The panel was chaired by Peter Watson, former Director of the Deer Initiative. It comprised:
The panel sought views from those with an interest in lowland deer, based on a list of key questions and an online survey. The survey closed in May 2018, and the panel held follow-up discussions with various stakeholders to help develop its report.
The panel reported to NatureScot early in 2019 with seven recommendations.
NatureScot will need to consider the panel's report alongside several other areas of ongoing deer-related work which will be published over the coming months, and we will therefore respond fully to the report later this year.
Donald Fraser, NatureScot.
Email: [email protected]