Loch Lomond park chiefs launch venison larder plan to manage deer numbers

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Deer could be on the menu in Loch Lomond with national park bosses launching a new plan for a community “venison larder”.Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority is consulting on a pilot scheme for the East Loch Lomond area to help tackle surging numbers of deer by turning them into food.

The region, like other parts of rural Scotland, has struggled with exploding deer populations ravaging farmland and habitats through overgrazing.The scheme - similar to another being trialled in Cairngorms National Park - aims to explore the feasibility, level of interest, and potential benefits of enhancing larder and chiller facilities for local farmers and smaller estates.

It’s also hoped it would improve local deer management efforts, reduce crop damage, and create better access to venison markets - potentially opening up new business opportunities for communities.Victor Clements of Native Woodland Advice - and lead consultant for the project - said: “The Park Authority recognises the challenges that farmers and managers face in managing the deer population, and we believe this pilot project offers a sustainable, practical solution.

By providing a shared facility, we can help alleviate the logistical and financial constraints associated with deer management, benefiting both the environment and the local economy.” Simon Jones, from Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “Negative impacts caused by deer populations are a major issue in many parts of the National Park, as it is across the country.