Leithenwater Estate

Leithenwater Estate lies on the southern side of The Moorfoot Hills in the Scottish Borders. An area of outstandingly beautiful upland, the Leithenwater valley is characterised by woods & rugged moorlands.

Forestry

Leithenwater takes in 3360 acres (1360 ha) of commercial forestry. These woodlands were mainly planted from 1969 through to the mid-1970s. After 45 years, much of this has now entered the productive stage and is ready to be harvested.

Planting Programmes

Clear felling areas ready for harvest presents a tremendous ecological opportunity to re-plant with more diverse forestry. When replanting, we carefully consider the age structure of the forest and the tree species - specifying a diverse mix of hardwoods. How woodlands are landscaped in conjunction with open ground is also an important consideration. With these considerations at the heart of our planting programmes, we create stronger ecologies and wildlife habitats, and more visually appealing woodlands.

An astonishing 60 000 trees are planted at Leithenwater per year.

Sustainable Management

Woodlands on the estate are managed to The UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS). This high standard firmly and responsibly prioritises the environment through sustainability. It takes into account governmental UK Forestry Standards and those of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Agriculture & Moorland Management

Our ongoing moorland management works in close partnership with extensive sheep farming over the uplands.

Our flock of 1300 Scottish Blackface Ewes grazes the moorland as part of a careful management programme aimed to improve biodiversity and habitats for ground-nesting birds such as red and black grouse, and other moorland species. Bracken and muirburn control has been a key part of this strategy.

Renewable Energy

The windswept landscape of the Moorfoot Hills makes it the perfect location to harness wind power for electricity.

Bowbeat Windfarm is owned by Eon and has been operating since 2001. Its 24 turbines each generate 1.3 MW of electricity and contribute to the UK's renewable energy targets.