'Scene of devastation': Cairngorms wildfire burning underground as battle continues

The Cairngorms wildfire has left behind a scene of “devastation” as efforts to tackle hotspots continue.

Firefighting is ongoing in Glenmore and Abernethy, with work taking place on the ground and in the air to extinguish the fire burning beneath the surface.

The fire is estimated to have affected an area of around 25 sq km since it was first reported near Ryvoan Bothy, south of Nethy Bridge, on July 15.

Cairngorms National Park has warned that the impacts of the incident are far-reaching, with businesses in the area millions out of pocket.

Malcolm Smith, agricultural advisor at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, who is supporting the firefighting efforts in a voluntary capacity, described a “scene of devastation”.

Work is ongoing to target hotspots RSPB Scotland

“Huge areas of moorland, especially some ancient pine, have been burned”, he told STV News.

“We’ve been helping out today by carrying water with our farm equipment, filling up the argos and firefighting equipment that the gamekeepers, estate workers and partner organisations have been using.

“The fire service has been doing a fantastic job. They’ve got a massive pump on the go, pumping water out of the loch and trying to cool down the roots of the old trees that have been burned.

“We also have the helicopter that has been waterbombing all day, trying to put out some of the fires.”

Rain and cooler weather has helped to reduce the spread of the fire, but emergency services are expected to remain in the area for some time to tackle the “complex and fluid incident”.

Work has also begun to remove fallen trees and debris to make the area safe again.

Cairngorms National Park confirmed on Wednesday that multiple hotspots remain.

“Though we have had some rain this afternoon, when fire is burning beneath the surface, it takes considerable and sustained efforts to cool it.

A scene of 'devastation' has been left behind by the wildfire — A scene of ‘devastation’ has been left behind by the wildfire RSPB Scotland

“This requires work on the ground in addition to helicopter waterbombing operations, and so firefighters, RSPB Loch Garten, Abernethy, partners, gamekeepers and other volunteers remain on the scene.

“Additionally, work is being undertaken by Forestry and Land Scotland to remove fallen trees and debris, to make the area safe again. Our heartfelt thanks again go to all of those working so hard on this operation.

“The impacts of the wildfire are far-reaching. Critically, there is a deeply human impact to this incident, in addition to the impact on our beloved forests, mountains and wildlife.

“From the people who have been grafting on the front line, to the businesses, employees and residents directly affected.”

On Wednesday, the Highland Council brought together community council leaders, the Cairngorms Business Partnership, and partners to discuss the challenges facing businesses and the need for urgent support.

The spokesperson added: “Whilst this situation is concerning and ongoing, we must ensure the public is aware that the vast majority of the National Park is not affected by the wildfire.

“Visitors can expect a friendly welcome, and we know that people will be keen to return to this special place and show their support for the local community.”

Road closures remain in place while efforts to tackle the incident continue.

Firefighting activity is still ongoing RSPB Scotland

Chief inspector Ross McCartney said: “This has been a significant incident for the emergency services, landowners and the local community and we understand the concern around this fire as it enters the third week. I am extremely grateful to the community and volunteers for their continued support, at what has been a very difficult time.

“We are aware of the impact road and access closures have on the local community and businesses and want to reassure that we will reopen roads as soon as it is safe to do so. The closures in place are to protect public safety while work continues, particularly with heavy machinery moving around to create further fire breaks. It is expected that the road and access closures will remain in place this week.

“As this incident remains an ongoing emergency response, I would also like to remind drone pilots that the area is a restricted area. Drones should also not be piloted in any areas currently restricted for public access.”

Road closures that remain in place:

• C7 (Ski Road)

• Forest Lodge access road

• Lettoch Road

• Dorback

Walking routes that remain closed:

• Around Glenmore, Loch Morlich and Badaguish

• Low level routes including Old Logging Way, routes providing access to Cairngorm Mountain, the Northern Corries, Meall A’ Bhuachaille, the Green Loch (Lochan Uaine), Strath Nethy and Bynack More

• Within Abernethy Forest to the south of Forest Lodge towards Ryvoan Bothy