New licensing conditions for muirburn will not come into force
until autumn 2026, Agriculture Minister has confirmed.
In the aftermath of the wildfires which have affected many parts
of the country and caused extensive damage to Scotland's
peatlands, the decision has been taken to move the commencement
date from 1 January, when the relevant part of the Wildlife
Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act would have come into
effect.
This follows extensive discussions with land managers, game
keepers, estate owners and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
(SFRS).
Mr Fairlie said:
“Delaying the implementation of the muirburn
provisions until the start of the next season in Autumn 2026
gives us more time to carefully consider how these necessary
changes to licensing can be brought forward in a way which does
not adversely affect our ability to prevent and respond to
wildfires.
“As we have all seen this summer, wildfires are very damaging to
Scotland's landscape, wildlife and particularly to our precious
peatland carbon stores that are vital in tackling the climate and
biodiversity crisis.
“I repeat my thanks to all those involved in getting the
wildfires under control and for their continued engagement as we
look to be better prepared in the future. We will continue to
work in partnership with key stakeholders and continue these
discussions on 14 October at the Wildfires Summit to discuss our
approach to muirburn licensing and prevention of wildfires.”
Background
Written
question and answer: S6W-41119 | Scottish Parliament Website
Muirburn is the intentional and controlled burning of moorland
vegetation to encourage new growth (either heather or grassland)
for the management of moorland game and wildlife or for improving
the grazing potential of the moorland for livestock or deer.
The Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill was passed by the
Scottish Parliament in March 2024 and includes a range of
measures that will help tackle raptor persecution and ensure that
the management of species on grouse moors is done so sustainably
and with animal welfare as a priority.
The Bill:
- bans the practice of snaring in Scotland
- bans the use of glue traps to catch rodents
- gives greater powers to Scottish SPCA inspectors to tackle
wildlife crime
- introduces a new licensing framework for grouse moors
- strictly regulates the use of muirburn, the controlled
burning of vegetation on peatland
