30-04-2025
- General
- The Herald Scotland
Rangers to get vital funding from Royal Foundation
On Wednesday they will meet with the Mull and Iona Ranger Service which oversees the conservation, wildlife management, visitor management and nature-based education on the islands.
The rangers protect the natural environment on the islands, as well as connecting the community and visitors to the island's landscape, history and wildlife.
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It was announced on Wednesday that the Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales will fund two ranger roles.
This funding is part of United for Wildlife's Nature Protectors initiative which aims to provide global leadership in the protection of nature and wildlife by supporting the needs of the primary stewards of nature.
Dr Tom Clements, executive director of conservation at the Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales said: "Rangers play a fundamental yet often misunderstood and overlooked role. They do far more than just protect wildlife. They are educators, community supporters, researchers and scientists.
"They preserve cultural heritage, and they help safeguard and regulate the sustainable use of natural resources.
'As we face increasing threats to our planet and natural world, the role of rangers in rural communities like Mull and Iona is invaluable for protecting the landscapes and environment on which communities rely.'
Moray Finch, General Manager of Mull and Iona Community Trust, said: 'Mull and Iona Community trust was formed in 1997 with the specific intention of making lives better for those who live and work here. The Ranger Service started the following year and is recognised as the very first community managed Ranger Service in Scotland.
"The rangers are really valued by the local communities and are an integral part of island life, as such it would be difficult to envision life without their crucial work.'
Kate Elliott, Chair of the Scottish Countryside Rangers' Association (SCRA) said: 'Rangers do more than just look after beautiful places. They help people connect with nature and history, working closely with visitors and local communities, to help tackle social challenges and build stronger, fairer places.
'Their work ties into some of today's biggest priorities — boosting health and wellbeing, opening doors to learning, growing sustainable tourism, and supporting inclusive economies. And in the face of the climate crisis and the urgent fight to protect biodiversity, rangers are right there.'
Kristian Teleki, CEO of Fauna & Flora said: 'Globally, rangers stand at the frontline of protecting nature. These dedicated individuals spend their days monitoring wildlife, reducing threats to vulnerable species, and helping people live in harmony with the natural world.
'In the UK, rangers are just as essential and anywhere else, from nature reserves to private estates, and from remote coastlines to the heart of our cities. Too often taken for granted, rangers are the quiet champions of conservation devoting their time, energy, and expertise to creating a healthier, more hopeful planet for us all.'
