Foresters are concerned that many ancient Scots pine trees may not survive damage inflicted by a major wildfire that swept through the Scottish Highlands in summer 2026. According to BBC News, Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) warns that the blaze around Glenmore in the Cairngorms could result in the loss of numerous centuries-old "granny pines" that serve as vital seed sources for the species.
The fire, which burned through approximately 10 square miles of forest and moorland near Aviemore between July and August, has created significant ecological challenges for the landscape's recovery. The loss of these mature trees would remove critical seed sources and substantially hinder natural regeneration of Scots pine across the region.
Despite concerns about the older pines, FLS staff monitoring the site have documented encouraging signs of natural recovery among other tree species. Birch, rowan and willow are regenerating from surviving stems and root systems, with shoots emerging from the base of burned trees across the affected area.
Large expanses of hillside have begun turning green again as grasses, bracken and blaeberry vegetation makes a comeback. This regrowth has been particularly noticeable in areas where soil moisture persisted or where the fire's intensity was lower. Wildlife has also returned to the burned landscape, with deer and capercaillie now being regularly observed in the damaged area, drawn by the new grass growth.
What are the main concerns for Scots pine recovery?
The primary worry centres on the fate of the oldest trees in the forest. FLS forestry management and stewardship forester Eelco de Jong explained the scale of the challenge:
"The concern is many of the oldest 'granny pines' could be lost, removing important seed sources and habitat for species such as capercaillie."He noted that
"Some of these veteran trees were more than 100 or 200 years old and, where losses occur, it could take centuries for trees of a similar stature to return to the landscape."
Beyond the loss of individual trees, the fire has created what de Jong described as "significant challenges" ahead. Organic soil layers have been severely damaged, and the harm to the area's renowned Scots pine population threatens the ecological character of the Cairngorms. However, FLS has reported that the first Scots pine and birch seedlings have been found in burned areas, and the cleared forest floor may support further tree regeneration.
What signs of recovery have been observed?
The recovery of broadleaf vegetation offers promise for the forest's future. De Jong highlighted that
"the recovery of broadleaf vegetation was promising with lots of birch, rowan and willow expected to grow back quickly."This rapid regeneration of pioneer species creates conditions that may eventually support the return of slower-growing conifers.
FLS and partner organisations have taken a coordinated approach to understanding the fire's aftermath. An Environmental Response Group has been formed to coordinate monitoring and recovery studies, including LiDAR mapping to assess damage across the landscape.
What access changes have occurred at Glenmore?
Following the fire, which began on 15 July near Ryvoan Bothy and involved hundreds of firefighters, partner agencies, volunteers and landowners, FLS has prioritised both public safety and site restoration. By late October, several key areas had reopened to visitors. The Ryvoan Trail, access to An Lochan Uaine, the full Meall a' Bhuachaille circuit and Ryvoan Bothy had reopened, though the Allt Mor car park and its surrounding area remained closed for repairs.
FLS has removed unstable fire-damaged trees beside forest roads and promoted trails, but warns that dangerous trees remain inside the burned area. The agency continues to assess which trees pose risks to visitors and which should be left to support wildlife habitat and natural regeneration.
What happens next for the burned landscape?
FLS says it will continue assessing damage and carrying out safety and restoration work, with the Allt Mor area remaining closed while repairs proceed. Monitoring efforts will examine how burned areas respond to heavy rain and snowmelt and how to manage trees destabilised by root damage.
The wildfire has prompted broader action across the region. The RSPB and other land managers have implemented major changes including wider fire breaks, wetland creation, and modified tree planting to prevent future blazes, while crofters and farmers in the Cairngorms are calling for a comprehensive wildfire management plan within six months.
