Ettrick and Yarrow Community Development Company: Community Access and Conservation

Historic overview

The transformation of Ettrick Marshes began over two decades ago through an ambitious rewilding project. The initiative involved removing Sitka spruce from the low-lying meadow, blocking forest drains to restore natural water flows, and planting native trees to recreate authentic Scottish woodland habitat. The area encompasses precious ancient woodlands, particularly in the birch wood and marsh fringes. Prior to EYCDC's involvement, the site's extensive boardwalk network had deteriorated significantly, effectively cutting off public access to this valuable natural resource.

EYCDC's approach combined conservation expertise with community engagement. The organisation employed two local rangers on a self-employed basis: a head ranger working three days weekly during peak seasons (reducing to two in winter), and an assistant ranger maintaining a two-day weekly schedule. The team have proved crucial in delivering both immediate practical improvements and longer-term community benefits.

The Project & the Fund

To ensure continued success in managing the area, EYCDC has to continue to identify funding streams to support salary costs.  As the project falls directly within the Langhope Rig Sub Fund A Fund area, the organisation applied for funding to contribute towards the costs of its countryside rangers.  After careful consideration, the Panel agreed to award the full requested amount of £20,000.  To ensure that the organisation could continue to manage and improve access and habitat in the Ettrick Marshes conservation area.

During the application, the applicant said:

We also want to keep the momentum that has built up over the past year going - this is not only within the local community but also within various wider wildlife experts who are starting to recognise the special nature of the site now that it has been opened up.

Multi-Faceted Impact

Environmental Conservation

The provision of the countryside rangers has supported local wildlife monitoring and habitat preservation. The installation of over forty nesting boxes and the strategic placement of trail cameras has significantly improved understanding of local species, including willow tits, pine martins, red squirrels, otters, badgers, and water voles. The rangers' work has attracted attention from major conservation bodies, with the Scottish Ornithologist Club, Edinburgh Zoo, Borders Forest Trust, and Tweed Forum all actively engaging with the site. This recognition has elevated Ettrick Marshes' status as a crucial habitat within Scotland's conservation network.

Community Regeneration

By restoring access to the Marshes, EYCDC has created a valuable community asset that promotes physical activity, mental wellbeing, and social connection. 

The guided walks programme has become a cornerstone of community engagement, providing not just exercise but opportunities for social interaction and environmental education. The rangers' local residency in upper Ettrick ensures strong community connections and responsive management of the site.

Skills Development and Employment

One of the project's most significant impacts has been its contribution to local skills and employment. The head ranger's mentoring of the assistant ranger, who started at age 18, directly led to the creation of a new local handyman business, demonstrating the project's role in fostering entrepreneurship. The provision of work experience opportunities for local young people, including a 15-year-old school leaver, shows EYCDC's commitment to developing the next generation of conservation professionals.

Educational Impact

The project has created valuable educational opportunities, such as the planned establishment of a red squirrel monitoring group based at Ettrick School which connected young people with nature conservation. The rangers' expertise in wildlife camera operation and footage editing is being shared with volunteers, creating a skilled local community able to document and promote their natural heritage.

Sustainable Future

With £20,000 in funding secured, EYCDC has been able to focus on working towards financial sustainability through planned timber sales. The strategic long-term approach includes installing an osprey platform, expanding interpretation facilities, and strengthening partnerships with local tourism businesses. These developments have enhanced the project's impact on both conservation and community development.

Conclusion

The Ettrick Marshes project demonstrates the transformative potential of community-led environmental initiatives. Through EYCDC's management, a previously inaccessible site has become a thriving community asset that delivers multiple benefits including - environmental conservation, skills development, and economic opportunity. The project's success in balancing these various elements while maintaining strong community support provides a valuable model for similar initiatives across Scotland and beyond. 

Its impact extends far beyond the physical boundaries of the Marshes, creating lasting positive change in community capacity, environmental stewardship, and local economic resilience.  The continuation of stewardship would not have been possible without funding from Langhope Rid Sub Fund A and this is a prime example of a project supporting the and aligning with the Fund priorities.