Slow Down and Smile

Forestry and Land Scotland is asking all visitors to its woodlands to be more considerate of other people in a bid to improve everyone’s day out. 

FLS looks after 300 destinations across Scotland. Many are well-used all year round but with the good weather they all get busier than usual. 

With such high levels of usage and people visiting for different forms of recreation, being friendly and respectful can help to minimise any user conflicts. 

Stuart Chalmers, FLS, said; 

“We look after some great locations across Scotland that are a great resource both for locals and for visitors. 

“We want everyone to be welcome in our forests. People pursue different recreational activities from quieter pursuits like photography, art or reading, to more active pursuits, from walking, running, horse riding or mountain biking. 

“Our forests can get really busy and different interests sometimes cross paths, which can sometimes give rise to issues, such as when dog walkers do not have their animal under close control or if mountain bikers encounter horse riders or walkers but don’t slow down. 

“The best way to make everyone’s visit a great day out is to simply be respectful of other visitors and considerate of their needs. All it takes is to slow down and smile.” 

Recent examples raised with FLS staff include mountain bikers who don’t slow down when passing people, horses or dogs, and dog walkers not having their pets under close control or on a long lead, which can create a trip or entanglement hazard. 

All visitors to FLS forests have the right of responsible access afforded to them through the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC).   

SOAC has three main principles: respecting the interests of other people, caring for the environment, and taking responsibility for your own actions. 

Notes to Editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
2. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS
3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot