Brisbane Mains
Brisbane Mains
Brisbane Mains covers 144ha in a mosaic of young and mature woodland, species-rich grasslands and peatland. Our Brisbane Mains site includes the Knock Hill which overlooks the Firth of Clyde and the islands beyond. To date, we have planted more than 200,000 trees as part of our work to sequester more carbon alongside our aims to conserve and enhance the special biodiversity of this site.
Afforestation
Brisbane Mains covers 144ha, where we have planted more than 200,000 trees. The majority of the trees planted are native birches, oaks, native shrubs and some Scots pine.
There are elements of ancient woodland on the site, supporting species such as Giant Horsetail and beautiful Hazel and Alder woodlands. However, these areas are currently threatened by Rhododendron invasion and heavy browsing by roe deer and will need to be managed. Discover our planting plan on our interactive map below.
Wildflower Meadows
Brisbane Mains has been subject to detailed vegetation and condition assessments, which have identified several areas of marshy grassland and upland calcareous grassland. These meadows are rich in many places with wildflowers, such as whorled caraway, ragged robin, wild thyme and wild pansy. They buzz with insect life, being hotspots for pollinators, such as bees, and other insects.
However, these areas are at threat from bracken invasion, incoming scrub and rush infestation. We wish to ensure they are managed in a way that not only conserves but enhances their wildflower and insect diversity in the long-term.
Mature Woodland
Brisbane Mains still has mature woodland, some of which has been there for over 130 years, and indeed, supports pockets of remnant ancient oak, ash and hazel woodland. It is home to a wide variety of species, from the rare Giant horsetail to bats, fungi and a rich birdlife, including Spotted flycatcher, Garden warbler and Great spotted woodpecker.
However, it is threatened by Rhododendron invasion in many places, which could take over large areas of this wildlife-rich woodland.
Peatland Restoration
Brisbane Mains has around 4ha of peatland that we plan to restore and manage in order to sequester more carbon. The blanket bog at Brisbane Mains is a little jewel within the site, supporting cranberry, orchids and thick mats of carbon-storing Sphagnum moss. Some of the peatland here at Brisbane Mains is in good condition but there are areas of invasive scrub and historic drainage. We will be undertaking ditch blocking and scrub removal to return the hydrology and vegetation of the site to a near natural condition.
