World’s First Rewilding Center Breathes Life into Scottish Highlands

Scotland, famed for its rugged mountains and craggy peaks, is a land often misunderstood as "wild," when in reality, centuries of livestock grazing have left it unrecognizably barren. This misconception may soon be dispelled, thanks to the newly established rewilding center at Dundreggan.

This innovative center aims to educate a broader audience about rewilding our damaged landscapes and the ongoing and prospective projects aimed at restoring the wilds of Scotland's Highlands. Offering a fresh perspective on these landscapes, the center is set to alter the way visitors perceive and interact with nature.

The center's doors are scheduled to fully open to the public during a celebratory weekend beginning April 15th. An array of activities and events are planned, including guided walks, storytelling sessions, tours of the tree nursery, and fun-filled activities for children. The center, a warm and welcoming hub of rewilding education, will be entirely free to access.

According to TreeHugger, the opening will showcase Dundreggan's successful rewilding initiative, undertaken in conjunction with Trees for Life. The project is part of Affric Highlands, the largest rewilding venture in the UK.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking sculpture, the creation of local artist Helen Denerley. The sculpture, a tree crafted from reclaimed metal, houses several native animals within its branches, setting the tone for the center's mission.

Beyond the sculpture, visitors will find classrooms, event spaces, and a cafe, all interspersed with information panels detailing the intricacies of rewilding, forest ecosystems, and local wildlife.

The center also emphasizes the local Gaelic heritage and natural wonders of the region, making it equally appealing to local community members and avid rewilding enthusiasts. The center's inclusive nature is a testament to its community-centric approach.

The project has already impacted the local economy positively, creating 20 jobs for the locals, as per the enthusiastic employees we spoke to during our visit.

In addition to its educational facilities, the center also provides a gateway to the surrounding landscape's adventurous hikes and accessible trails. My husband and I experienced this firsthand, embarking on a rainy but enjoyable walk on the "oak path," a journey past the tree nursery and through an enchanting woodland of ancient oaks.

The Dundreggan Rewilding Center, the first of its kind globally, aims to bring the enthralling concept of rewilding to the forefront. Steve Micklewright, Chief Executive of Trees for Life, says that Dundreggan has served as a beacon for landscape rewilding for 15 years and will now inspire people as well. The center hopes to breathe life into the vast potential of the Highlands, address climate and nature emergencies, and boost social and economic opportunities.