BASC has called on Scottish Water to explain the rationale and provide the evidence behind its decision to ban grouse shooting on its land.
In a letter to the water company, BASC Scotland director Peter Clark outlines the environmental and economic benefits of grouse shooting, pointing out that grouse moors are “safe havens” for a whole raft of threatened wildlife, including red-listed birds such as lapwing and curlew.
Mr Clark said: “As Scotland’s publicly-owned water company, Scottish Water must explain the rationale for its decision to not issue any future grouse shoot leases.
“Grouse moor management provides a thriving upland landscape that supports wildlife and biodiversity, as well as vital rural employment.
“Scottish Water’s decision puts at risk the important contribution that grouse moor management makes to Scotland’s upland landscapes. “BASC has requested a meeting with Scottish Water’s CEO to discuss this decision in full.”
Want to read more news from BASC Scotland? Head to our dedicated pages here.
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