Planting in Craigs Forest — Nr Ardgay
Photograph is courtesy of Moira Mackay (and son Hugh), Bonar Bridge, Sutherland.
This evocative shot of the men planting trees in the Invercharron Hill part of Craigs Forest overlooking the Kyle of Sutherland and Bonar Bridge was taken in December 1958. The image featured in the Scotsman Newspaper of that month.
The actual area being planted is featured in Picture No 1548 which shows a map of the forest and the area is numbered Compartment 565 and planting P59 (First growing season after planting). The names of the men are unfortunately not known. They are all using the standard FC D-Handled planting spade but it is not clear whether they are planting directly into the ground or into turfs. The work clothing typical of the time features some ex service attire.
Can anyone from the Bonar Bridge, Ardgay and Strath Carron area suggest any names for who the planters could be? Any information on who worked in the forest and the forester in charge would be very welcome.
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