Current status: Answered by Jim Fairlie on 15 July 2026
To ask the Scottish Government, regarding the new Muirburn Code, what assessment it has made of the contribution made by gamekeepers and other land managers to wildfire prevention and response, including the provision of personnel, equipment and other resources, and if such an assessment was made, whether (a) any findings have been reflected in the new code and (b) it will publish the findings.
The Scottish Government recognises that gamekeepers, farmers, crofters and other land managers can make an important contribution to wildfire prevention and response, including through vegetation management, local knowledge, practical experience, personnel and equipment.
NatureScot has engaged with stakeholders through the Muirburn Code Working Group. That engagement has helped inform the development of the Code, including provisions relating to safe planning, appropriate resourcing, liaison with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and the role of muirburn as a land management tool.
No separate formal assessment has been undertaken specifically of the contribution made by gamekeepers and other land managers to wildfire prevention and response. As no separate assessment has been produced, there are no findings to publish.
However, the knowledge and experience of land managers have been considered through the consultation and stakeholder engagement process, and has informed the development of a Code intended to be practical, proportionate and capable of supporting safe licensed muirburn where appropriate.