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Rottal 2
South of the Cairngorms, Rottal 2 expands woodland along the South Esk to improve water quality, reduce flood risks, and enhance wildlife habitats. A mix of conifers and native broadleaf species will support biodiversity, strengthen the landscape’s resilience and help the UK progress its climate targets.
Nestled just below the Cairngorms National Park in the heart of Glen Clova, Rottal 2 spans nearly 55 hectares of predominantly productive conifer woodland, complemented by native broadleaf riparian planting. This project is designed not only to create a sustainable woodland for timber production but also to enhance the local ecosystem and improve the quality of watercourses that run through the area.
The native woodland compartments at Rottal 2 will provide essential shelter for wildlife, improve flood mitigation, and significantly expand riparian woodlands along the South Esk and its tributaries. Planting along watercourses is carefully designed to improve water quality, reduce the risks of river heating, and prevent flooding downstream. As the forest matures, it will also support habitat creation for a wide range of species.
Rottal 2 has already shown its biodiversity benefits, with the presence of puffball and brown birch bolete mushrooms (both indicators of a thriving and healthy forest ecosystem) recorded during a Forest Carbon verification in 2024. The area also contributes to the natural restoration of the Rottal Burn, which is home to the endangered freshwater pearl mussel and supports vital habitats for salmon.
The project will sequester an impressive 17,206 tonnes of CO₂ over 65 years, according to Woodland Carbon Code-validated calculations. With continued support, Rottal 2 can contribute significantly to both climate action and biodiversity uplift, creating a lasting, positive environmental impact for Scotland and beyond.
Certified under the Woodland Carbon Code, the UK’s government-backed standard for carbon-funded woodland creation.
Species mix
0%
Scots Pine
0%
Norway Spruce
0%
Sitka Spruce
0%
*Other
*Predominantly Native broadleaves
Co-benefits
Reduced soil erosion
The trees will help prevent soil erosion, protect riverbanks, and provide additional natural flood management benefits downstream.
Animal shelter
This woodland will serve as a refuge for livestock, offering protection from harsh weather and a haven throughout the seasons.
Flood mitigation
The woodland will reduce flood risk for remote communities upstream of Brechin (population 7,000) and the key road connecting them, which is often prone to flooding.
Biodiversity uplift
The project delivers significant conservation benefits, supporting species such as Atlantic salmon, freshwater pearl mussels, and red squirrels.
Sustainable timber
By providing responsibly sourced timber, this woodland supports the local economy and reduces reliance on unsustainable forestry practices, while promoting forest health.
Habitat corridors
This project reconnects fragmented habitats, creating wildlife corridors and expanding riparian woodland along the River South Esk and its tributaries
Our involvement
At Rottal 2, we helped the unlock the carbon value of the woodland creation project by guiding the project through Woodland Carbon Code certification and enabling early access to carbon finance when it was most needed.
Step 1
Provided early investment
Before validation or credit issuance, we committed to purchasing a portion of the anticipated carbon units. This gave the landowners early financial certainty and reduced their upfront risk. Forest Carbon pioneered this ‘pre-validation’ funding model in the UK.
Step 2
Guided the project to certification
We guided the landowner through Woodland Carbon Code validation, compiling the necessary documentation and managing the process to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely approval.
Step 3
Connected values with action
We led the sale of Rottal 2’s validated carbon credits, securing support from buyers such as Heathrow Airport and Antalis. We managed all aspects of contracting and transactions.
Step 4
Committed to long-term outcomes
Our involvement continues with the project’s ongoing Woodland Carbon Code verification, helping safeguard its long-term positive environmental impact.
Project status
Registered
Aiming for verification, but planting and verification are yet to occur.
Validated
Planted. An initial quality check has been carried out by a third party.
Verified
Meets Code standards, verified by an accredited assessor. Ongoing checks ahead.
Want to support a project like Rottal 2?
Rottal 2 was made possible by businesses and land managers working together to restore UK nature. If your business is looking to make a similar impact, explore the projects it can support today.
