Feasibility study published on the possible reintroduction of pine martens into the Forest of Dean in the west of England
Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, The Vincent Wildlife Trust, and the Forestry Commission have published a report on the feasibility of reintroducing pine martens into the Forest of Dean in the county of Gloucestershire in the west of England. The Forest of Dean is ~110 square kilometres of mixed woodland and has a history of extensive tree damage caused by grey squirrels. There is mounting evidence from Scotland and Ireland that pine martens have a negative effect on populations of grey squirrels, and if a release was to go ahead, pine martens could reduce the levels of damage caused by grey squirrels. In addition to the reasons and feasibility of reintroducing pine martens, the report covers environmental, social and economic impacts as well as the views of the local community and other stakeholders.