Juniper, the primary botanical used in gin, is one of only three conifers native to the UK. Over recent decades, the shrub has witnessed a significant decline, and whilst Scotland remains a stronghold for the species the population has reduced by 25% from Scottish sites where it has previously been found.
So, when juniper shrubs were identified within Bhlariadh wind farm’s construction corridor, near Invermoriston in the Highlands, the site’s onsite environmental team went the extra mile to ensure that the juniper shrubs were not lost to the development. Going beyond both legal and planning compliance, they moved the shrubs safely to suitable new home beyond where construction was taking place.
Bruce Milne, SSE’ Environmental Engineer said: “When the team found the juniper bushes they started work immediately to identify a new home for the plants.
“Juniper is an ecologically important species and this area is a bit of a juniper hot spot so we were all really pleased to have been part of the efforts to help to ensure its conservation.”
Juniper isn’t just the signature note in gin, the plant supports a range of specialist insects, fungi and lichens, provides shelter and food for larger animals, and older juniper bushes often protect tree saplings from browsing herbivores.
Livishie Wood, located south-east of the wind farm, is a juniper hot-spot and represents one of the best examples of birch and juniper woodland in the Inverness and Nairn area.