Fenton, James
Landscape Change in the Scottish Highlands: Imagination and Reality
- ISBN 13:
- 9781849955515
- author:
- Fenton, James
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- Whittles
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2023
- Pages:
- 192
- Dimensions:
- 24 x 17.2 x 1.2 centimetres (0.4
- Genre:
- Science, Nature, Ecology,
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 10 working days
Description
The Scottish Highlands have long been a source of fascination for many. Often symbolising Scotland as a whole, they evoke images of rugged mountains, glens and lochs, and wildlife such as golden eagles and red deer. However, the question remains whether this imagined landscape accurately reflects the reality. This book aims to explore the history of the Highland landscape, examining how it has changed over time and continues to evolve. Contrary to popular views, the author argues that the traditional unwooded Highland landscape is one of the most natural remaining in northwest Europe, with minimal signs of human impact except in areas of settlement. Instead, human activities such as reforestation, peatland restoration, infrastructure development, and commercial forestry plantations are contributing to the loss of naturalness in the Highlands. By taking an objective look at the history of the Highland landscape, this book challenges conventional wisdom and invites readers to consider a more nuanced understanding of this unique and complex environment.