Tarras Valley Nature Reserve

The story of this community land purchase captured the interest of people from all around the world during the global Covid-19 pandemic.

The news about a small community trying to achieve what had never been done before in South Scotland, attracted local and national interest, made global headlines, and gathered support from all over the world. 

After 2 years of fundraising, in what was termed a moment of history and hope for people, nature and climate, the community of Langholm now legally owns 10,500 acres of the Tarras Valley and Langholm Moor.  

The vast landholding is being developed into the Tarras Valley Nature Reserve. It includes upland moorland; ancient woodlands; river meadows; internationally important peatlands, and 8 properties including an upland hefted sheep farm. 

We are proud to help organise volunteer support for the Nature Reserve. The work varies depending on weather and requirements. This may involve the removal of non native Sitka Spruce, fence removal, tree planting etc.