1. business and industrial
2. paper industry

nd
292
Deer Commission for Scotland
Open Board Meeting on Monday 2nd March 2009
Great Glen House, Inverness
Agenda
OPEN SESSION – 10:45
1
Apologies
2
Draft Minutes of Meeting of held 1st December 2008
Paper: 292/1
3
Matters Arising from Meeting held on 1st December 2008
Paper: 292/2
FOR DECISION
4
Best Practice – Overview and Way Forward
Paper: 292/3
5
Environmental Policy/Carbon Footprint Target
Paper: 292/4
FOR DISCUSSION
6
Biodiversity Target Update
Paper: 292/5
FOR DECISION
7
DCS Annual Business Plan and Budget for 2009-2010
Paper: 292/6
FOR NOTING
8
Caenlochan Voluntary Control Agreement
9
Minutes of Meetings
a)
b)
c)
Paper: 292/7
Deer Management Committee
Draft Minutes of Meeting held 3rd February 2009
Paper: 292/8
Strategy Committee
Draft Minutes of Meeting held 4th February 2009
Paper: 292/9
Resources & Audit Committee
Draft Minutes of Meeting held 4th February 2009
Paper: 292/10
10
External Meetings Attended/to be Attended by
Chairman and Chief Executive
11
Any Other Business
12
Date of Next Meeting (9th June 2009 – Deeside)
Paper: 292/11
Paper: 292/1 2009
Draft Minutes of the 291st Meeting of the
Deer Commission for Scotland held in the Craigmonie Hotel,
Inverness on Monday, 1st December 2008
OPEN SESSION
Present:
Prof J Milne (Chairman)
Dr A Barbour
Dr C Shedden
Dr P Mayhew
Mr A Hamilton
Mr S Pepper
Prof. J Pemberton
Mr N Rowantree
Sir Michael Strang Steel
Mr N Halfhide (Chief Executive)
Mr A MacGugan (Director of Stakeholder Relations)
Mr R Edwards (Head of Administration)
Mr R Kernahan (Director of Deer Management)
Ms K McNeil (Director of Policy, Projects and Research)
Ms J O’Hara (Scottish Government)
Mr M Liddle (Scottish Government)
Mr I Jardine (SNH)
Mr R Burton (Scottish Natural Heritage)
Mr R Dunsmore (Forestry Commission Scotland)
Mr C McClean (CNPA)
1.
2.
OPENING REMARKS
1.1
The Chairman welcomed all present, in particular Mr I Jardine (Scottish
Natural Heritage) who was attending his first DCS Board meeting.
1.2
There were apologies from the Earl of Dalhousie, Dr S Walker and Mr P
Hunter Blair (SNH).
1.3
There were 2 members of the public present.
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 23rd SEPTEMBER 2008
Paper: 291/1
2.1
Members agreed that paragraph 5.2 be amended to read:
‘During the discussion, Members were advised that DCS staff would be
kept informed of progress via a staff intranet site and agreed that the Board
be provided with access to part of the merger section of the site.’
2.2
Subject to the inclusion of the above amendment, Members approved the
minutes.
Action: Raymond Edwards
3.
MATTERS ARISING FROM MEETING HELD ON 23RD SEPTEMBER 2008
Paper: 291/2
3.1
Members noted the contents of Paper: 291/2.
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Paper: 292/1 2009
4.
REVIEW OF ANNUAL BUSINESS PLAN FOR 2008-2009
Paper: 291/3
4.1
The Chief Executive introduced the paper, explaining the proposed changes
to Annual Plan targets for 2008-2009.
4.2
In response to a question on the life cycle analysis of venison from wild
deer, the meeting was advised that this related to a carbon audit of venison
from ‘hill to plate’ and that the study would look at production of venison
from red deer and roe deer in Scotland. Members agreed that staff
circulate the project brief to them.
Action: Katy McNeil
4.3
Following discussion. Members agreed to recommend the following
changes to DCS’ Annual Plan for 2008-2009 to the Scottish Government
(numbers refer to Annual Plan actions):
4.1
The socio-economic study be deleted and an activity
included in the Annual Business Plan for 2009-2010 to
publicise the findings of the four case studies.
4.4
Add a further milestone – “DCS undertake a life cycle carbon
assessment of venison from wild deer’
6.1
Delete the educational activity and reconsider as part of the
planning for next year’s Annual Business Plan. DCS was
already involved in educational activities to increase
opportunities and the quality of experience for observing and
enjoying wild deer through the Best Practice Demonstration
Events, venison events with schools in the National Parks,
and was planning to work with estates on deer watching
tours.
10.5
Add a further milestone – “DCS develop a methodology for
measuring national and regional deer populations.’
12.2
Add a further milestone – “Record and measure progress in
the preparation of an implementation plan for ‘Scotland’s
Wild Deer – A National Approach.’
12a.1
Add a further milestone – “Record and measure progress in
the review of deer legislation that the Minister has asked
DCS to undertake.’
Action: Nick Halfhide
5
REVISED BUDGET FOR 2008-2009
Paper: 291/4
5.1
The Chief Executive introduced the paper, explaining the proposed changes
to the DCS budget for 2008-2009. These represented only a small shift of
resources between different headings.
5.2
Following discussion, the Board approved the amendments to the budget
and agreed to recommend the revised budget to Scottish Government.
Action: Nick Halfhide
2
Paper: 292/1 2009
6
PROGRESS OF CORPORATE PLAN TARGETS
Paper: 291/5
6.1
The Chief Executive introduced the paper providing Members with an
update on progress in the first six months of 2008-2009 in achieving the
targets in the Corporate Plan for 2008-2011.
6.2
He noted that, whilst there were some short-term issues around collecting
environmental data and forward planning in relation to venison processing
and consumption, the main area of concern was the target for the condition
of features on designated sites affected by wild deer and other grazing
animals. Staff estimate that 92% of features will be secured under
appropriate management and thus be in favourable or unfavourable
recovering condition by 2010, with the remainder secured by 2011. As with
all targets relating to the favourable condition of features, these remained
estimates subject to the successful agreement of management plans and
funding, and the results of subsequent Site Condition Monitoring rounds.
6.3
In response to Members’ questions, staff confirmed that were doing all they
could, in conjunction with partners, to reach the target of 95% of features
being in favourable or unfavourable recovering by 2010.
6.4
Members noted that it seemed unlikely that the Scottish Government would
reach the wider 95% target by 2010.
6.5
Members agreed that the Management Team draw up a draft Annual
Business Plan for 2009-2010 for discussion with the Resources and Audit
Committee in February 2009 prior to consideration by the Board at their
meeting on 2nd March 2009. Members agreed that this would need to
include any further work on legislative change arising from the Minister’s
consideration of DCS’ proposals on this topic.
Action: Nick Halfhide
6.6
7
Members expressed their appreciation to the staff for the format of the
paper.
PROPOSALS FOR CHANGES TO DEER LEGISLATION
Paper: 291/6
7.1
The Chief Executive introduced the paper proposing changes to the wild
deer legislation for submission to the Minister for Environment. He outlined
the process that had lead to the formation of the recommendations, including
the work of the Legislation Review Sub-Committee, and initial discussions
with stakeholders.
7.2
The Chairman provided a personal view on the response to date of individual
external stakeholders as well as the views expressed at the Deer
Management Round Table. He considered that there was general support
for the recommendations though there were some areas of concern,
particularly around the holding of a register of all those who shoot deer, and
possible over-exploitation of red deer stags if the male season was removed.
7.3
The Chairman reminded all Members that their role was to discuss the
recommendations as independent Members of DCS rather than representing
the views of individual stakeholders.
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Paper: 292/1 2009
7.4
Members discussed and agreed the general scope of the proposals. They
noted that the recommendations had been developed as a single package,
and as such was not suited to selective implementation.
7.5
Members discussed the various recommendations contained within the
paper as follows.
Recommendation 1 – Voluntary Approach
7.6
Members agreed this recommendation subject to the removal of the final
sentence ‘DCS would also continue to provide support through incentives
and regulatory tools’.
Members agreed to include an additional
recommendation which would contain mechanisms to support and empower
local collaborative deer management arrangements. This could potentially
include a Code setting out principles of sustainable management which deer
managers would have to follow.
7.7
There was no support for a network of compulsory deer management groups
across Scotland similar to the Salmon Fishery Boards. However Members
considered that DCS had a role to make existing arrangements work better
and to form new groups where necessary.
Recommendation 2 – Compulsory Plan
7.8
Members agreed this recommendation subject to the changes as underlined
below:
‘The Scottish Parliament should introduce a new power to compel a group of
land managers to develop and implement a deer management plan to
deliver public interests of national importance where the voluntary approach
is failing. This power would be supported by offences relating to noncompliance and measures for DCS to enforce the plan and recover costs.’
7.9
Members agreed that the public interest could also include that associated
with individual populations, and the comparison was made with the Area
Management Agreements between fish farming and angling interests.
Recommendation 3 - Panels
7.10
Members agreed this recommendation.
Recommendation 4 – Emergency Powers
7.11
Members agreed this recommendation subject to the changes as underlined
below:
‘The Scottish Parliament should provide DCS with emergency powers of
intervention to take action in situations prejudicial to the natural heritage,
economic loss, public safety and deer welfare when no other powers are
adequate to deal with a situation.’
Recommendation 5 – Demonstrating Practical Skills and Knowledge
7.12
Some Members expressed concern at the requirement of all those wishing to
shoot deer to demonstrate their practical skills and knowledge, and for their
names to be kept on a Register. They questioned whether this was the most
appropriate way to safeguard deer welfare and were concerned that it would
act as a barrier to new stalkers and prevent a number of current practitioners
4
Paper: 292/1 2009
from continuing. There was also a concern that it would set a precedent for
compulsory assessment in other field sports and for the shooting of other
mammals.
7.13
Following a vote, the Board agreed the recommendation. Prof Milne, Mr
Pepper, Mr Hamilton, Dr Mayhew and Prof Pemberton voted in favour, and
Dr Shedden, Mr Rowantree and Dr Barbour voted against.
7.14
Members agreed that when this recommendation is presented to the
Minister, it should be accompanied by an appraisal of the costs and benefits
of other approaches considered.
7.15
Members noted that the first sentence in the supporting text should read:
‘The Seasons Consultation in 2005 pointed out that the current operation of
a male and female closed seasons may not secure deer welfare 365 days of
the year.’; and the text should make it more explicit that these measures
were intended to promote public confidence in the actions of the deer sector.
Recommendation 6 - Seasons
7.16
Following discussion in which some Members expressed reservations at the
removal of the Close Season for male deer, Members agreed this
recommendation subject to changes as underlined below:
‘The Minister should remove the national Close Seasons for male deer and
reduce the female Close Season to cover the period of juvenile dependency.
An authorisation procedure would be put in place to allow the shooting of
non-juvenile female deer during the Close Season in exceptional
circumstances associated with public safety, economic loss, environmental
impacts and public or private amenity.’
7.17
Sir Michael Strang Steel did not support this recommendation.
7.18
Members agreed that the supporting text should emphasise:

the importance of collaborative and inclusive deer management at a
local level to minimise the risk of over exploitation of males; and

the Minister should retain the power to impose a male season at a local
or national level in the future.
Recommendation 7 – Night Shooting
7.19
Members agreed this recommendation.
Recommendation 8 – Driving Deer
7.20
Members agreed this recommendation.
Recommendation 9 – Cull returns
7.21
Following discussion, Members agreed this recommendation.
7.22
Members agreed that further consideration be given to the following points:

How to gather cull returns from unsupervised stalkers from abroad;

What information DCS needed to gather and for what purposes;
5
Paper: 292/1 2009

How to allow Deer Management Groups access to this information; and

Penalties for not submitting returns.
Recommendation 10 – Owner Occupier Rights
7.23
Members agreed this recommendation provided that it was only
implemented at the same time or after the removal of the male Close
Season.
7.24
Members agreed that the Sub Committee consider the issues raised by the
Board and prepare a draft submission for circulation to the Board for their
approval before Christmas.
Action: Nick Halfhide
8
EXTERNAL MEETINGS ATTENDED BY CHAIRMAN AND
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
8.1
9
Members noted the contents of the paper detailing external meetings
attended, and to be attended, by the Chairman and Chief Executive.
MINUTES OF MEETINGS
a)
Deer Management Committee
Draft Minutes of Meeting held on 22nd October 2008
Paper: 291/8
9.1
Members noted the draft Minutes of the Deer Management Committee
meeting held on 22nd October 2008, in particular paragraph 5.2 setting out
the criteria for controllers to remain on the ‘Fit and Competent’ Register after
their initial five-year period had elapsed.
b)
Strategy Committee
Draft Minutes of Meeting held on 23rd October 2008
Paper: 291/9
9.2
Members noted the draft Minutes of the Strategy Committee meeting held
on 23rd October 2008 and in particular, the reference to the implementation
plan and monitoring framework for the Wild Deer Strategy.
c)
Resources & Audit Committee
Draft Minutes of Meeting held on 22nd October 2008
9.3
10
Paper: 291/7
Paper: 291/10
Members noted the draft Minutes of the Resources and Audit Committee
meeting held on 22nd October 2008.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
10.1
Members were advised that four members of the SNH Board were due for
re-appointment in July 2009. As part of this, the Minister would wish to
consider how best to ensure that the membership of the Board contains
persons of knowledge and experience of deer matters.
10.2
There was no other business.
6
Paper: 292/1 2009
11
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
11.1 The next meeting of the Board will be held on 2nd March 2009 in Great Glen
House, Leachkin Road, Inverness.
7
Paper: 292/2
Matters Arising from Open Meeting of the
Board of the Deer Commission for Scotland held on
Monday, 1st December 2008
Prepared by: Nick Halfhide, Katy McNeil, Raymond Edwards
1.
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to update members on matters arising from the
meeting of the Board held on Monday, 1st December 2008.
2.
Action
To note the following actions.
3.
Matters Arising
2.
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 23rd SEPTEMBER 2008
2.2
The Minutes were amended.
4.
REVIEW OF ANNUAL BUSINESS PLAN FOR 2008-2009
4.2
The project brief for the Carbon Life Cycle Analysis for Venison Research
project has been circulated to Board members.
4.3
Staff submitted the revisions to the Annual Business Plan for 2008-2009
to the Scottish Government on 2nd December 2008. Acceptance was
confirmed by e-mail on 12th January 2009.
5
REVISED BUDGET FOR 2008-2009
5.2
Staff submitted the revisions to the budget for 2008-2009 to the Scottish
Government on 2nd December 2008. Acceptance was confirmed by email on 12th January 2009.
6
PROGRESS OF CORPORATE PLAN TARGETS
6.5
The Resources and Audit Committee considered a draft Annual Business
Plan for 2009-10 at their meeting on 4th February 2009. This is presented
for the Board’s approval under item 7 on the agenda. The draft includes
an activity to undertake further work on legislative change as necessary
arising from the Minister’s consideration of DCS’ proposals on this topic.
7
PROPOSALS FOR CHANGES TO DEER LEGISLATION
1
Paper: 292/2
7.24
The legislative sub-committee met twice in December to consider the
issues raised by the Board. The Chairman and Chief Executive circulated
a draft submission that had been agreed by the sub-committee to Board
members on 22nd December 2008. Following the consideration of
comments from Board members, the Chairman submitted advice to the
Minister for Environment on 12th January 2009.
2
Paper: 292/3
Best Practice – Overview and Way Forward
Prepared by: Linzi Seivwright (Best Practice Project Officer)
1.
Purpose
The purpose this paper is to present an overview of progress with the Best Practice
Project and to seek the Board’s approval for DCS’ involvement in the activities
proposed by the Steering Group for 2009/2010.
2.
Action
The Board are asked to:
3.

Note project delivery to date;

Note progress with Best Practice Partnership;

Note plans for two pilot workshops in March 2009;

Note plans for workshops and a demonstration event in 2009/2010; and

Approve DCS’ contribution to the activities proposed by the Steering Group for
2009/2010
Project Delivery
In July 2008, the Best Practice project successfully delivered the publication of a
set of seventy-four guides.
Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead officially
launched the publication at Scone Game Fair on 4th July, an event strongly
supported by representatives from across the deer sector.
There are currently over 1,800 subscribers to the guides and to date, over 1,000
practitioners and students have attended one of the 7 demonstration events held
throughout Scotland over the last three years.
The guides remain under continuous review, and a further 3 new guides are being
drafted for publication in Spring 09. These guides are Training, Lone Working, and
Public Access.
The remaining outstanding guides which have yet to be published await the
outcome of further research or policy development before being drafted.
The latest production schedule as agreed by the Steering Group is included in
Annex 1. This outlines the schedule for the remaining nine unpublished guides
from the original set of eighty-three guides, and new guides to be included.
4.
Best Practice Partnership
Following a meeting of the Steering Group on the 25th November 2008, the group
discussed potential models for the Partnership and agreed to continue with a
Voluntary Association type partnership.
1
Paper: 292/3
The Steering Group agreed the partnership principles and membership (see Annex
2). It was agreed that membership of the group should be increased to include a
Further Education representative and a representative from SNH.
The Group discussed the issue of funding and proposed that for the first year
funding should be sought from the Agencies to cover the project costs. The Group
agreed that the public benefits associated with the project were considerable,
particularly in relation to the educational value of the project not only to
practitioners but also to the wider public. The Group also agreed that the
Partnership would seek in-kind support from DCS/SNH specifically to support the
part-time employment of the Partnership Coordinator (broadly equivalent to three
days per week) and the provision of office space.
It was also agreed that additional sources of funding be investigated to finance
future years including the following:
5.

Public sector (could be direct or be ‘in-kind’)

Member organisations contributions

Grants/External Funding-eg LEADER

Commercial sponsorship
Best Practice Events
Pilot Workshops
Two pilot Best Practice Workshops are being held in March 2009 targeted at
providing Continual Professional Development for those practitioners who had
already been to an event but who were keen to learn more about topics in greater
detail. A non-refundable one-off payment of £30 per participant will be levied in
order to secure bookings and to discourage last minute cancellations.
Title
Date
Carcass Preparation
Thursday March 5th
Firearms
Friday March 20th
Location
Craigadam Estate,
Castle Douglas
Cawdor Range,
Inverness
Number of
Participants
Maximum 26
Maximum 30
.
Demonstration Event and Workshops for 2009/10
The provisional dates for the next Demonstration Event will be Wednesday 28th,
Thursday 29th and Friday 30th October 2009. Location and format have yet to be
finalised but from a comparison of a map of previous BPDE attendees with a map
of current subscribers (Annexes 3 & 4), possible locations may include North East
(Angus/Deeside) or South West (Dumfries & Galloway).
Two workshop days on Habitat Impact Assessment are proposed for Summer
2009.
Depending on the outcome of the pilot workshops in March 2009, two further
workshops will be held in 2009/2010 - dates and locations to be finalised.
2
Paper: 292/3
6.
Commitment to Best Practice by DCS in 2009/10
In summary, the outputs for 2009/10 are as follows:

6 new guides

1 x 3-day Demonstration Event in October 2009

2 x 1-day workshops on habitat impact assessments in Summer 2009

2 x 1-day workshops on other topics (content and time tbc)

On-going support for the running and development of the Best Practice
Partnership
The Board is asked to agree these outputs. These outputs will require DCS to
contribute £30,000, 220 days of staff time, and in-kind contributions for
administrative and website costs. These resources are contained within the draft
budget presented in Paper: 292/6 which is for approval under agenda item 7.
3
Paper: 292/3
Annex 1
Revised Guide Production Schedule
The Steering Group agreed the following actions for each proposed guide:
Guide Name
Deer management in public
areas
Capture for Management
Auditing and Verification
Training
Collaborative Deer
Management
Terms and Conditions
Staff Management
Public Access
Sustainability
Lone Working
Calibres and ammunition
Calf Tagging
Extraction Using Boats
Deer Watching Activities
Minimising Exposure to Lead
Action
Aims section of the guide to be worded to clarify the
issue about terminology relating to ‘public areas’ and
‘urban areas’. This guide is awaiting result of the periurban project and is scheduled for 2010.
As research to further the development of this guide is
unlikely to be completed this winter, the guide
development has been postponed to 2009/2010.
Following discussion it was unclear what the actual
content and purpose of this guide would be so it was
agreed to remove this guide from the series.
The group agreed to progress the drafting of this
guide for publication in Spring 2009.
It was agreed to postpone this guide to 2009/2010 to
allow progression of the development of the guide with
ADMG.
Members of the group expressed concern that the scope
of this guide may stray into areas outwith the remit of
Best Practice. The Group agreed that before this guide
was removed from the series, the Project Officer should
produce an outline draft guide for the Group to consider.
As such development was postponed until 2009/2010.
The group agreed that the content of this guide would
likely be included in the Terms and Conditions guide so
would become redundant.
The group agreed to progress the drafting of this
guide for publication in Spring 2009.
It was agreed to postpone this guide to 2009/2010 to
await the results of the DCS Sustainable Deer
Management Project.
It was agreed that this guide should cover contractors as
well as employees. The group agreed to progress the
drafting of this guide for publication in Spring 2009.
Following discussion it was agreed that instead of
producing a guide, this information along with other
information relating to seasons and tick medication
should be made available on the website.
It was agreed to keep the decision to develop this guide
under review.
It was agreed to keep the decision to develop this guide
under review.
It was agreed to keep the decision to develop this guide
under review.
It was agreed to keep the decision to develop this guide
under review.
4
Paper: 292/3
Annex 2
Best Practice Partnership
Partnership Principles
The Group discussed and agreed the following key principles of the Partnership
•
The continued development and promotion of BP as a ‘brand’;
•
The continued involvement and collaboration of key industry organisations
working as a collective unit;
•
Frequent review of guides;
•
Preparation of new guides;
•
Development of additional material for different audiences;
•
Provision of Demonstration Events;
•
Safeguarding of Copyright on material; and
•
Day to day administration of subscribers.
Membership & Duration
The group agreed the following membership of the Partnership:
Association of Deer Management Groups
British Association for Shooting and Conservation
British Deer Society
Deer Commission for Scotland
Deer Initiative
Forestry Commission Scotland
LANTRA
Scottish Gamekeepers Association
The group also agreed that the following should be invited to join the Partnership:
Further Education representative
Scottish Natural Heritage
5
Paper: 292/4
Revised Environmental Policy/Carbon Footprint Target
Prepared by: Jessica Findlay and Raymond Edwards
1
Purpose
To agree DCS’ revised Environmental Policy and to note progress on performance to
date in achieving DCS’ corporate target of reducing its carbon footprint by 10% by
2011.
2
Action
To
(a) consider and agree a revised Environmental Policy; and
(b) note progress to date on reducing DCS’ carbon footprint.
3
Background
The DCS Board agreed its first Environmental Policy in September 2006. In 2008 a
new corporate target of reducing DCS’ carbon footprint by 10% by 2011 was
introduced. This new target, together with changes brought about by the relocation to
Great Glen House, necessitated revisions to the existing policy.
In October 2008, the Resources and Audit Committee agreed to recommend a revised
Environmental Policy to the Board. This is contained at Annex 1. The principal
revisions were:

Annual reporting on environmental performance will be presented in DCS’ Annual
Report rather than incorporated into the policy. This removes the need to refresh
the policy on an annual basis;

An analysis of the revised baseline carbon footprint (2007/2008) was included;

A clearer analysis and identification of DCS’ main environmental impacts was
undertaken; and

Revised mitigation measures were agreed.
4
Progress to Date
At their meeting on 4th February 2009 the Resources and Audit Committee considered
an analysis of the effectiveness to date of existing measures to reduce carbon
production (see Annex 2). This presents:

the projected annual carbon footprint for 2008/2009 compared with the baseline of
2007/2008; and

the carbon impact of the different elements which make up the total footprint.
Projected performance for this year shows that the target reduction in DCS’ carbon
footprint will be met in 2008/2009. However, whilst encouraging, the individual targets
for 2009/10 and 2010/2011 are very challenging, particularly as DCS’ two largest
carbon-producing activities (helicopters and car fuel), are both projected to increase.
1
Paper: 292/4
In response to this, the Committee agreed measures to reduce car mileage by greater
promotion of public transport, video conferencing, and car sharing.
Staff are also undertaking a review of helicopter use to examine whether savings can
be made in future years for consideration by the Deer Management Committee on 12th
May 2009.
2
Paper: 292/4 Annex 1
Deer Commission for Scotland Environmental Policy
1. Background
Sustainability and sound environmental management are fundamental to all decisions and
actions that DCS takes. For DCS as a public body sustainability and environmental good
practice will contribute towards:
-
Scottish Government’s ‘Greener Scotland’ outcome
-
Scottish Government’s target of reducing Scotland’s carbon footprint by 80% by
2050.
2. Environmental Aims
DCS has two over arching environmental aims:
-
To make our business activities and corporate processes more sustainable
-
To reduce our total carbon footprint
DCS will achieve these aims by:
-
Reducing DCS’s 07/08 carbon footprint by 10% by 2011
-
Raising staff and member awareness and “buy-in” to environmental responsibility;
-
Identifying different working methods that will not divert delivery of core business.
3. DCS’s carbon footprint in 2007/08
The diagram below illustrates DCS’s 2007/08 baseline carbon footprint:
Energy Usage
Total - 129040 kg CO2
24145
47527
Inverness Electricity
Inverness Gas
13936
Stirling Electricity
Stirling Gas
Air Travel
429
1467
Rail Travel
Vehicle Fuel
Helicopter Fuel
844
2940
37752
1
Deer Commission for Scotland Environmental Policy
DCS has a corporate objective to reduce its 2007/2008 footprint by 10% by 2011. Below
are laid out further details on how this will be achieved and on how progress towards this
target will be monitored, reviewed and reported on.
4. DCS/SNH Merger Implications
To facilitate a successful integration of DCS/SNH environmental policies areas of overlap and
areas with potential to adopt and adapt SNH styles of reporting and setting targets have been
identified. These areas have been identified through input into the Great Glen House Green
Team and the northern Scotland Greening Group both of which operate within the wider context
of the Scottish public sector. These areas of synergy include:
-
Data collation spreadsheets
-
Green Office Plans
-
Development of new ‘Travel Plan’
5. Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Enhancement Measures
To achieve a reduction in environmental impacts DCS will target areas where changes can make
a real difference. This means adopting a pragmatic, meaningful, responsible and flexible
approach to achieving the 10% reduction target.
Below are outlined key areas in which DCS impacts on the environment.
Using helicopters to count deer
In 2007/08 the use of helicopters was the biggest single contributor of carbon emissions in DCS’
work. DCS uses helicopters to count deer and the data from these counts informs local deer
management and plays an important role in the Joint Agency Sites programme of work by
establishing what deer impacts are and working with others to identify appropriate deer numbers
in the context of different land management objectives. Clearly there is a big trade off in terms of
CO 2 emissions of helicopters and this will be kept under review. However recent research
(Daniels, M.J. 2006) concluded that out of all the different methods of counting deer helicopters
are the most efficient and the most accurate.
Travel
DCS has a Scotland-wide remit and often requires travel to fairly remote areas where public
transport is often not available. DCS staff and members cover over 100,000 miles per annum,
mainly by car. In addition, increased DCS activity (e.g. field operations) involves increased use of
vehicles (including four wheel drives). Mitigation and enhancement thus needs to focus on the
areas of travel where we can make reductions (i.e. travel to meetings etc) rather than those
areas of core business need.
Mitigation & Enhancement:
-
Strive to use public transport wherever possible;
-
Organise meeting times and venues to coincide with public transport links and provide
details of public transport times and services;
-
Use of public transport / car sharing to work and on official business;
2
Deer Commission for Scotland Environmental Policy
-
Encourage visitors to DCS offices to use public transport (the SG supported journey
planner tool has been added to the DCS website);
-
Greater use of video, phone and emerging technologies (e.g. sharepoint) as alternatives
to travelling to meetings;
-
Encourage the implementation by all staff of “Ten tips for safer, greener, stress-free
driving”.
-
Introduce dual-fuelled or alternative-fuelled vehicles during replacement programme;
-
Develop and introduce Travel Plans;
-
Encourage Members to car share to meetings
Green Office Plans
DCS staff are currently based in two offices: Great Glen House in Inverness and Innovation
Park in Stirling. The environmental impact of these offices can be measured in terms of:
-
Energy
-
Paper consumption
-
Waste
-
Recycling
The most effective way to achieve the reduction target in these areas is set out in an annual
Green Office Plan for each of the offices. The Great Glen House Green Office Plan will set
out the activities for the whole building and DCS’ role will be to contribute towards this.
Mitigation and Enhancement:
The full details are available in the Green Office Plans. Examples have been included here:
-
Avoid printing emails
-
Use mains power instead of battery power (for desk equipment eg calculators)
-
Circulate one copy of common documents instead of printing multiple copies
-
Set all PCs, printers and copiers to default to double-side printing (where available).
6. Reporting
We will report annually on environmental performance in the DCS Annual Report. At the end of
each reporting year performance will be reviewed to help inform activities needed to build on
next year’s performance. Post merger all reporting and target setting will be integrated into SNH
systems.
7. Procedures to Implement and Monitor DCS Environmental Policy and Environmental
Management Programme
All DCS staff and members are responsible for considering the environmental impacts of their
actions and to change behaviour where there is a clear environmental benefit. Monitoring of
performance is essential to identify areas which have been a success and to target and find
3
Deer Commission for Scotland Environmental Policy
solutions to areas which are struggling. Over and above this the following key roles and
responsibilities have been identified:
Roles and Responsibilities:
-
DCS Management Team through the Board has overall responsibility for the DCS
Environmental Policy and Procedures;
-
Implementation relies on joined up staff member buy-in and ‘lead by example approach’;
-
DCS staff and any contractors working for DCS are expected to follow the principles of
the DCS Environmental policy and Environmental Management Programme.
Monitoring:
-
The Management Team will review progress against targets quarterly and will flag up any
issues or targets which are not on course for being met by the end of the year. For any
targets that look as if they will not be achieved a way forward will be agreed by staff;
-
In the instance that targets are falling seriously behind during the reporting year this will
be raised at the DCS Resources & Audit Committee.
4
Paper: 292/4 ANNEX 2
Environmental Policy Implementation Chart
Target
127,581
123,718
120,041
115,239
Actual
127,581
123,285
Total Carbon Emissions
130,000
128,000
126,000
124,000
122,000
Kg of C02
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
120,000
Target
Actual
118,000
116,000
114,000
112,000
110,000
108,000
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
Year
2010/11
Paper: 292/4 ANNEX 2
Environmental Policy Implementation Chart
Air
Rail
Actual Air Target Actual
Rail Target
2007/08
844
844
2,940
2,940
2008/09
682
819
2,940
2,852
2009/10
794
2,766
2010/11
762
2,656
Figures in red show projected annual total.
Car Fuel
Actual
37,752
37,752
Car Fuel
Target
37,752
36,620
35,521
34,100
GGH Energy
GGH Energy
Actual
Target
34,737
34,737
27,521
33,659
32,684
31,376
Stirling
Actual
3,781
4,700
Stirling
Target
3,781
3,667
3,558
3,415
Helicopter
Actual
47,527
47,527
Helicopter
Target
47,527
46,101
44,718
42,930
Carbon Emission Catagories
50000
Air Actual
Kg of C02
45000
Air Target
40000
Rail Actual
35000
Rail Target
Car Fuel Actual
30000
Car Fuel Target
25000
GGH Energy Actual
20000
GGH Energy Target
15000
Stirling Actual
10000
Stirling Target
Helicopter Actual
5000
Helicopter Target
0
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
Year
2010/11
Paper: 292/5
Biodiversity Target Update
Prepared by: Robbie Kernahan (Director of Deer Management)
1.
Purpose
To update the Board on progress towards the DCS Corporate Target on designated
features affected by wild deer.
2.
Action
The Committee is asked to note progress towards the DCS Corporate Target and consider
the issues affecting progress.
3.
Background
One of the nine targets in the DCS Corporate Plan for 2008-11 is to increase to 95% the
percentage of features in favourable or unfavourable recovering condition on designated
sites affected by wild deer by 2010. This contributes directly to the target in the National
Performance Framework to ‘increase to 95% the proportion of protected nature sites in
favourable condition’.
There are estimated to be 2,345 features on designated sites which may be affected by
grazing animals. Of these, 86% (2,023 features) are considered to be in favourable or
unfavourable recovering condition at the moment, leaving 14% (322 features) which are in
neither favourable nor unfavourable recovering condition.
4.
Work Programme
The DILG programme is currently working on 206 features, which if all assured under
appropriate management, would deliver the 95% target by 2010.
The DCS Deer Management Committee and the Resources and Audit Committee have
considered progress towards this target and accept that, due to the lead-in time to agree
management plans and/or secure funding through the SRDP (where this is necessary), it
is unlikely that DCS will reach the 95% feature target, regardless of whether extra
resources are made available.
DCS estimates that through the DILG programme a total of 92% will be secured under
appropriate management and therefore be in favourable or unfavourable recovering
condition by April 2010. Whilst this falls just short of the target, it will nonetheless be a
significant achievement.
This would represent a 12% contribution to the national Nature Conservation targets in
terms of the overall number of features which are currently not in favourable condition.
All of the features at risk will be included in the Joint Working Process being led by DCS or
through the Scottish Forestry Strategy protected sites programme by April 2010.
DCS plans to devote significant resources to this high profile area of work in 2009-10 as
presented in Paper: 292/6 at agenda item 7. This includes £90,000 for habitat impact
assessments and £180,000 for deer census work, as well as significant staff time.
1
Paper: 292/5
Barriers to Progress
The Board have previously been alerted to and discussed some of the barriers to progress
in reaching this target (including the complexity of SRDP) and significant progress has
recently been made in resolving some of these issues.
Having identified the requirement to find alternative ways to resource detailed deer/grazing
management plans, agencies have developed and drafted a new option under Rural
Development Contracts – Rural Priorities which, if accepted for inclusion in the June 2009
modification, would increase the funding available to prepare complex grazing
management plans.
It has also now been agreed that in the short term (2009/2010), Agencies will commission
contractors to prepare plans. This means that collaborative plans can be achieved more
easily at 100% funding with no cost to land managers, and land managers are not
required to commission contracts or make up-front payments. However, this is only a
short-term solution as SNH are committed to ensuring that the SRDP remains the main
mechanism to resource the conservation management of designated sites. This shortterm funding will have direct application on up to half of the features on the DILG
Programme and assist to ensuring progress towards DCS the corporate Target.
The absence of a strategic multi-agency programme board for the broader target within
the National Performance Framework for features across all designated sites remains a
weakness in strategic governance. Without this board, there is no effective mechanism to
escalate problems from the DILG Programme nor is there a forum for considering the
longer-term planning of aspirations and resources beyond the 2010 target. DCS remains
vocal in trying to influence the Scottish Government and SNH to convene such a board,
and there are indications that it will be set up soon.
Next Steps
The DILG programme team, chaired by DCS, will continue to monitor and review progress
quarterly on all sites within the programme, and continue to call for a board to consider
strategic issues.
2
Paper: 292/6
DCS Annual Business Plan and Budget for 2009-2010
Prepared by: Nick Halfhide (Chief Executive)
1.
Purpose
To present a draft Annual Business Plan for 2009-2010.
2.
Action

3.
Discuss and agree the draft Annual Business Plan for 2009-2010 at
Annex 1 for submission to the Scottish Government
Background
2009-2010 is the second year of DCS’ Corporate Plan for 2008-2011. During
the first year, DCS made significant progress against all 9 targets within the
Corporate Plan, in particular through the work on designated sites and the
advice to the Minister for Environment on the review of deer legislation.
The draft Plan for 2009-2010 builds on this progress. Whilst continuing to put
significant resources into designated sites, it also makes provision for more
detailed activities for the corporate targets on wild venison, deer around
Scotland’s towns and cities, and road safety. In addition, and for the first
time, it seeks to incorporate additional actions to implement the Wild Deer
Strategy.
The draft Plan was discussed by the Resources and Audit Committee on
4th February 2009 and their comments have been included in this version of
the draft Plan.
4.
Budget
The Annual Plan is based on a budget of £1.834m from the Scottish
Government, comprising £1.794m current and £0.04m capital.
As the table below highlights, resources will continue to be focused principally
on ‘Contributing to a High Quality Environment’, particularly designated sites.
Contributing to a
High Quality Environment
Contributing to
Sustainable Economic Development
Contributing to Social Wellbeing
Cross Cutting
Board Functions
Administration
Staff Costs
Total
Proposed
Budget for
2009/2010
387,000
Budgeted
Spend for
2008/2009
373,180
25,000
21,293
30,000
142,000
108,000
221,000
921,000
1,834,000
24,800
130,593
105,184
206,380
907,123
1,768,553
1
Paper: 292/6
5.
Efficiency Savings
DCS is required to identify a further 2% efficiency savings against a
2007/2008 baseline over and above that identified and secured in 2008/2009;
and redirect them towards front line delivery. This makes a cumulative total
of £67,000 for 2009/2010.
Staff submitted three-year proposals in March 2008 for savings in running
costs during 2008-2011 to be redirected towards front line work. This will be
made up of the savings secured in 08/09 on building running costs and
reduced administration costs, supplemented by savings on vehicle purchase
and external IT contracts in 2009/2010.
The figures above show the redirecting on these savings to activities in all
areas of front line work including additional research and monitoring, and Best
Practice activities.
6.
Consideration
In considering the activities and budget within the draft Annual Business Plan,
Members need to be aware of the following variables:
7.

The Minister has yet to decide how she wishes to take forward DCS’
advice on the review of deer legislation, and consequently the amount of
staff time that this may require;

The time commitment and timetable for all staff to prepare for the
proposed merger of SNH and DCS is not yet clear. At this stage, it seems
likely that all staff will need to be involved during the year in job
evaluation, training and familiarisation in SNH procedures and IT
applications, as well as briefings and discussions; and

Doubts on the timing of spend for some activities in 2008-2009 may have
implications for the budget in 2009-2010.
Next Steps
Following approval by the Board, staff will submit the Annual Business Plan to
the Scottish Government for their consideration.
2
Paper: 292/6
Annual Business Plan 2009-2010
Annex 1
Draft (20/2/09)
Annual Business Plan for 2009-2010
Income
Allocation from Scottish Government
(£ ,000)
1,834
1,794 current
capital
40
Action Headings in Wild Deer
Strategy
No.
Contributing to a High Quality
Environment
1 Achieve the favourable condition of
Scotland's most important nature
conservation sites
Activities, Targets and Milestones
2009-2010 budget 2008-2009
budget
@ 01 12 08
(for
comparison)
3 Contribute to climate change
mitigation and adaptation
MT
responsible
1.1 Participate in Programme Board overseeing Government target for the condition of features on designated sites;
Report quarterly to the Board on progress to meet targets
NH
1.2 Agree Joint Working Priorities for 09/10 work programme by April 08. Review resource requirements on all sites in
09/10 work programme by June 2009. Ensure lead responsibility for sites are agreed at a local level and project plans
are in place by Sept 09. Chair 4 meetings of the Joint Working Programme Management Team by March 09.
RK
1.3 Habitat Impact Assessments - Carry out annual habitat monitoring on 5 S7 sites by August 09. Ensure baseline
surveys are revisited at Monadhliaths, Strathglass and Ballochbuie by September 09
1.4 Deer census - Summer Census carried out on 3 Joint Working sites by August 2009 (Beinn Dearg, Beinn a Ghlo and
Caenlochan). Ensure Winter count programme is carried out by March 2010.
1.5 Promote the Joint Working Process - ensure relevant site specific Joint working information on DCS website is
reviewed and updated at least quarterly.
1.6 Complete research on Natura case law (RP 68c)
1.7 Maintain field readiness - annual audit of field equipment and operational procedures, and ensure that staff undergo
field training (including cull training, mountain awareness and disease recognition).
1.8 Purchase of capital items to support field readiness
2 Conserve and enhance biodiversity in
the wider countryside
Notes
2.1 1) Assess the effectiveness of estimating the productivity of deer in urban settings and approximate densities of deer
in and around urban areas by Q4: 2) Develop understanding of the need for strategic planning with 2 (Q2) then a
further 3 (Q3) Local Authorities to deal with the impacts of wild deer in and around communities: 3) Produce a critical
review of the impact of facilitated roe management on 2 peri urban sites and identify any additional training needs
(Q4): 4) Produce guidance on planning to manage deer in and around towns. (Q3)
2.2 Non Native Species - promote changes to the Destructive Imported Animals Act 1932 and agree timescale for
consultation with SG by May 2009; promote extension of 1999 Sika Order under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
(to cover Scarba, the Garvellachs and Lunga); Manage contract for re-testing of refugia populations.
2.3 Monitor and investigate any reports of muntjac in the wild on an on-going basis
2.4 Explore changes to legislation to licence the movement of wild deer into and within Scotland
2.5 Keep under review input to local LBAP plans quarterly. Ensure DCS review and input into the upland and woodland
ecosystems groups within the new structures for the delivery of biodiversity action in Scotland
2.6 SRDP - Attend RPACs as required. Provide prompt response and advice to all consultations on SRDP applications
with a deer element, particularly in relation to woodlands. Ensure review of SRDP includes relevant and appropriate
prescriptions for funding of deer management activities, including funding of complex grazing plans.
3.1 Understanding the role of deer management: Prepare and circulate explanatory material aimed at deer managers
arising from seminar concentrating on the two themes of moorland and woodland by Oct 09
3.2 Continue to contribute to national work on the links between deer and climate change with particular focus on peatland
and heather moorland.
3.3 Monitor progress quarterly on DCS' carbon output; consider and implement new measures to ensure that DCS
reduces its carbon output towards the Corporate Plan target
1
90
90
RK
180
160
RK
2
RK
10
100
KM
RK
5
50
RK
20
3
1
AM
24
3
RK
RK
RK
RK
RK
5
KM
10
KM
RE
Paper: 292/6
Annual Business Plan 2009-2010
Annex 1
Contributing to Sustainable
Economic Development
4 Enhance the economic benefits
derived from wild deer
4.1 Increase the economic value and consumption of venison: 1) Produce recommendations on how Government policies
could better work for venison by Q4. 2) Prepare a critical analysis of current supply and whether collaboration at the
local level can increase return on investment using two pilots within the DCS Case Studies by Q4. 3) Implement pilot
events to promote venison in schools in two areas, seeking to develop effective partnerships that enable stand alone
initiatives by Q3. 4) Develop an Action plan to extend venison promotional events to all Local Authorities in Scotland
by Q2. 5) Facilitate the inclusion of venison on the menus of two public bodies by Q3. 6) promote the findings of the
research into the carbon life cycle assessment of wild venison by Q2.
4.2 Deer watching: in partnership with Wild Scotland hold a seminar by Q2; Produce deer management interpretation
material targeted at tour customers by Q3
4.3 Undertake research to better understand the national economic value of the deer sector
5 Minimise costs to land-use objectives
and rural development
10
17
AM
5
4
KM
KM
10
5.1 Maintain the Fit & Competent Register. Ensure controller details are accurate and evidence provided is current,
relevant and authentic in line with DCS authorisation procedures
5.2 Process 95% of requests for authorisations within 10 days
5.3 Contribute to the National Access Forum to reduce the negative impact of public access on the cost of deer
management. Provide advice to the Stalking subgroup.
5.4 Investigate sites where damage to crops is reported, assess the evidence, and take appropriate and proportionate
action to resolve
RK
RK
RK
RK
Contributing to Social Wellbeing
6 Increase opportunities and quality of
experience for observing and enjoying
wild deer
6.1 Develop with SNH promotion of Scotland's wild deer through 'Eco schools' and community chests, and scope further
opportunities within the private sector.
2
7 Safeguard health and safety
7.1 Implement and monitor mitigation on existing RTA priority sites
7.2 Carry out strategic analysis of the 'Deer Collisions UK' database in Scotland and identify areas for further
investigation. Monitor progress of the DCUK contract and liaise with partners including the Deer Initiative, Transport
Scotland and local authorities as appropriate.
7.3 1) Implement road awareness campaign for spring dispersal followed up by reminder for the autumn clock change
combined with targeted promotional material in 1 hot spot area by Q3. 2) Review effectiveness of campaign by Q4.
4
12
4
18
RK
RK
2
2
AM
5
1
RK
RK
RK
7.4 Implement DCS procedures on receiving expressions of concern in relation to public safety
7.5 Keep under review approaches to RTA in other parts of UK and abroad
7.6 Contribute to national efforts to reduce the spread of disease which may affect wild deer and domestic stock and
ensure information flow on disease surveillance to practitioners.
7.7 Undertake research to investigate lead residues in wild venison, and the effectiveness of non lead ammunition in
safeguarding the welfare of wild deer
AM
KM
5
Cross cutting
8 Develop effective frameworks for
sustainable deer management
8.1 Ensure DCS representation is provided for all Deer Management Group meetings as invited and that DCS provides
DMG with an update on key issues.
8.2 Set up a 4th case study to consider current approaches to sustainable deer management at a local level by May 2009.
Provide a quantitive analysis of the economic costs/benefits of Deer Management decisions within the case studies by
August 09. Supported by the Steering Group, and linked to the outcome of legislative review, develop a code of
practice to inform local, collaborative deer management based on the analysis of the case studies information by
March 2010 .
8.3 Develop a web-based cull-planning management tool
2
RK
25
3
9
RK
KM
Paper: 292/6
Annual Business Plan 2009-2010
Annex 1
9 Safeguard the welfare of wild deer
10 Use sound science to underpin
management decisions
9.1 1) Depending on the outcome of the Legislative review, refine proposals with the deer sector to ensure that everyone
who shoots deer can demonstrate fitness and competence at the appropriate level. 2) Develop recommendations with
input from stakeholders for a responsibility of care providing guiding principles to safeguard welfare in the context of
sustainable deer management by Q4
9.2 Contribute to research into deer health and welfare methodologies RP 64
10.1 1) Develop and test a RFID data collection system: 2) Carry out options appraisal involving stakeholder input and
make recommendations on implementing a Unified data system subject to the outcome of the legislative review.
10.2 Co-ordinate deer-related research across the public sector - hold 1 co-ordination meetings per year
10.3 Collect, collate and analysis cull and venison returns, and post on web by August 09
10.4 Summarise outputs from research projects in an easily digested and engaging form, and publish through web on an
on-going basis
10.5 Complete research to develop a methodology for measuring national and regional deer populations by end of Q1;
implement the method by end of Q4
10.6 Undertake research to better understand public attitudes to deer and deer control, particularly in relation to red deer
11 Raise awareness and understanding
of wild deer and their management
11.1 Best Practice Partnership: 1) Administer partnership including review of 74 guides and update/develop 6 guides and
NOS/BPG cross mapping exercise by Q4. 2) Run 1 BPDE by Q3. 3) Run 2 in depth workshops by Q4. 4) Develop 2
BPG workshops targeted at DMG/estates on habitat assessment/cull planning by Q2.
11.2 Facilitate industry skills uplift: 1) Through LANTRA guide keep under review the relevant NOS. 2) Provide technical
guidance to new and existing training and assessment activities in particular the development of modern
apprenticeship schemes.
11.3 Promote the work of DCS to practitioners in the deer sector at the RHS, Scone and Moy
11.4 Use a wide range of channels to communicate the work of DCS to key audiences; issue at least one press release per
month; review contents of website weekly
11.5 Develop and implement proposals to transfer DCS' web material onto SNH website as part of the merger preparations
11.6 Hold regular meetings with agency and NGO stakeholders to facilitate and co-ordinate implementation, including
DMRT
11.7 Hold an annual conference with open hill practitioners by July
11.8 Support the 9th European Roe Deer Congress (Edinburgh)
12 Implement and monitor the impact of
the Strategy for Wild Deer
13 Review the deer legislation
2
3
15
2
AM
12
KM
5
AM
1
KM
AM
AM
10
KM
KM
10
30
26
AM
AM
15
17
19
17
AM
AM
AM
4
4
AM
5
3
5
AM
AM
12.1 Lead the Implementation of the Strategy 1) hold regular meetings with partners on progress 2) develop
implementation database by June. 3) integrate 2010/11 planning with agency annual planning processes by March
5
10
KM
12.2 Monitor implementation of the Strategy: seek independent scrutiny of emerging indicators to test their effectiveness in
showing progress towards the vision in the Strategy
5
13.1 Take forward the review of deer legislation, responding to the feedback from the Minister for Environment
3
KM
KM
Paper: 292/6
Annual Business Plan 2009-2010
Annex 1
14 Board Functions
15 Administration
14.1 Provide efficient and effective support to the Board and Committees; produce high quality papers and provide support
for Board and Committee meetings
14.2 Make public Board meetings as accessible as possible
75
74 Board salaries
RE
21
12
20 meeting
11 Board T&S
RE
15.1 Review possibilities for co-location in Stirling by May 09
15.2 Manage DCS' resources effectively, efficiently and economically; report progress against budget on a quarterly basis;
Spend within 2% of budget by March 2010
15.3 Reduce annual running costs to deliver 2% efficiency in addition to 2% efficiency in 08-09
134
62
141 accommodation
59 IT
20
capital for
equipment
15.4 Respond to 95% of FOI enquiries within 20 days; review procedures by Aug
15.5 Produce Annual Report for 08-09 by Aug 09
16 Staff Costs
16.1 Provide staff with high quality training and developmental opportunities relevant to their work and their professional
aspirations; agree staff training plan by end of May 09 and review implementation by end Nov 09
5
794
21
67
34
16.2 Ensure that DCS provides a safe working environment; report any accidents and near misses to the Board on a
quarterly basis and implement within 4 weeks any resultant steps to reduce risk.
16.3 Manage DCS staff to maintain a top quality team with high morale and clear understanding of DCS' business;
complete staff appraisal for 08-09 by end of April 09 and in-year reviews by end Oct 09
16.4 Review staff resources to deliver Annual Plan on a quarterly basis
16.5 Facilitate internal staff communication through at least quarterly meetings and web-based intranet
16 Efficient Government
Notes
5
4
AM
AM
RE
17 overtime
68 T&S
25 training
28 recruitment
NH
NH
AM
NH
NH
1,834
NH = Nick Halfhide, RE = Raymond Edwards, RK = Robbie Kernahan, AM = Alastair MacGugan, KM = Katy McNeil
768 salaries
RE
RE
17.1 Contribute to Phase 2 of the SEARs initiative;
17.2 Work with SG and SNH to put in place preparatory plans for the proposed merger with SNH in 2010 (subject to
Parliamentary agreement);
Total
5
AM/RE
RE
Paper: 292/7
Caenlochan Voluntary Control Agreement
Prepared by: Robbie Kernahan, Director of Deer Management
1.
Purpose
To update members on progress with the Caenlochan Voluntary Control
Agreement.
2.
Action
Note the current position of progress towards targets within the Voluntary Control
Agreement and the description of the next steps.
3.
Background
At the DCS Board meeting on 3rd June 2008, members considered progress with
the Caenlochan Section 7 Control Agreement (Paper 289/6) and recommended
that:
4.

DCS should continue to work with the estates in the Caenlochan control area
to set cull targets for 2008-2009 to achieve the population density of between
9 and 19 deer /km2.

DCS should collect more detailed information on the nature and extent of
current grazing impacts across the whole of the Caenlochan SAC; and

In 2009, the DCS Board should review whether the Voluntary Control
agreement has failed and decide whether to put in place a control scheme
under Section 8 to deliver the targets set out in the Section 7 voluntary
control agreement.
Progress
The last Section 7 meeting to discuss progress of the deer cull was held in early
December. Since then, DCS has been providing the communication link between
the estates which has allowed for more joined up working in delivering the target
for the deer cull.
As of Friday 20th February, 14 deer remained to be shot to deliver the required
cull target for 2008/2009 and hence the cull target has a high probability of being
met by the end of February. If this cull target is met then the target density of 19
deer per km² should be met this summer. Table 1 below provides a summary of
annual cull progress against the cull targets.
1
Paper: 292/7
Year of
Agreement
Season
1
2
3
4
5
6
2003/2004
2004/2005
2005/2006
2006/2007
2007/2008
2008/2009
Summer
Population
Density
45
No Summer count
42
31
25
23.5
Cull Target
Cull
achieved
Difference
2050
2230
4300
3792
2046
1739
1986
2295
4164
2944
1626
1725
-64
65
-136
-848
-420
-14
Table 1. Population density and cull of deer in each of the years of the Agreement.
The report on assessment of herbivore impacts across the wider Caenlochan
SAC has been received from the contractor and distributed to the estates for
comment. The report has highlighted that the features of interest have been
subject to high grazing and trampling pressures for some time and has also
highlighted the current role of other herbivores, particularly sheep and hares.
5.
Next Steps

DCS will continue to work with the estates in the Caenlochan control area to set
cull targets in 2009-2010 to maintain the population density of 19 deer /km2.

DCS, in partnership with the Section 7 steering group, will consider amending or
renewing the existing Section 7 agreement to ensure that there is no deterioration
of designated features affected by grazing across the whole of the Caenlochan
SAC.

As part of any new agreement, DCS will monitor the condition of the wider SAC
habitats in three years time to assess how deer densities are impacting on the
condition of designated features.
2
Paper 292/8
Draft Minutes of Meeting of Deer Management Committee
held on 3rd February 2009
Attending:
Earl of Dalhousie (Convener)
Prof J Milne
Dr C Shedden
Dr P Mayhew
Dr A Barbour
Sir Michael Strang Steel
Mr N Halfhide (Chief Executive)
Mr A MacGugan (Director of Stakeholder Relations)
Mr R Kernahan (Director of Deer Management)
Ms K McNeil (Director of Policy, Projects & Research)
Mr R Edwards (Head of Administration)
Dr L Seivwright (Best Practice Officer)
Mr I Hope (Deer Officer)
Mr D Fraser (Deer Officer)
Mr J Hammond (Deer Officer)
Mr S Coghill (Deer Officer)
Mr G Taylor (Deer Officer)
Mr J Scott (Deer Officer)
Mrs J Findlay (Policy Officer)
Mr R Rose (Collaborative Project Officer)
Ms V Mowat (Press & Media Officer)
Mr P Roberts (Research and Data Manager)
Observers
Mr R Burton (SNH)
Mr Patrick Hunter Blair (SNH) – Items 10 – 12 only
1.
APOLOGIES
1.1
There were apologies from Mr N Rowantree and Mr J Irvine. The Convenor
also welcomed Mr J Scott and Ms V Mowat to their first meeting of the
Committee.
1.2
Members agreed that a map detailing geographical areas of responsibility
of both Members and Deer Officers should be prepared and circulated to
Members.
.
2.
Action: Robbie Kernahan
DRAFT MINUTES OF DEER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
MEETING HELD ON 22ND OCTOBER 2008
Paper: DMC 1/2009
2.1
Members agreed that the 6th bullet point of paragraph 8.2 be amended to
read:
‘Despite the good work of the Scottish Quality Wild Venison Assurance
scheme, there remains some quality issues with the product, particularly at
certain times of the year and through possible contamination from lead
ammunition.’
2.2
Subject to the inclusion of the above amendment, Members approved the
draft Minutes.
Action: Raymond Edwards
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3.
MATTERS ARISING FROM DEER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Paper: DMC 2/2009
MEETING HELD ON 22ND OCTOBER 2008
3.1
4.
Members noted the contents of the paper.
ENGAGING WITH LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Paper: DMC 3/2009
4.1
Jamie Hammond introduced the paper, seeking Members approval of a
project plan for engaging with local authorities and facilitating roe deer
management on two case study areas in an urban setting.
4.2
During discussion, staff confirmed that DCS had sufficient resources to
deliver the project plan.
4.3
Following discussion, Members approved the proposals outlined in the
paper subject to re-drafting of the project brief and the inclusion of land
managers and recreational stalkers in the list of key players.
Action: Jamie Hammond
5.
INCREASING WILD VENISON CONSUMPTION
Paper: DMC 4/2009
5.1
Linzi Seivwright presented the paper providing Members with an
updatedproject brief for increasing venison consumption for their approval.
5.2
Following discussion, Members approved the project brief subject to the
inclusion of the following amendments:
5.3

the title of the project should be amended to reflect that the project
aimed to increase the economic value of wild venison rather than
consumption alone;

the project plan needs to link with the Government’s food policy;

the ‘Background’ section needed to be amended to include a further
bullet point on increasing demand; and

greater consistency
‘Objectives’ sections.
is
needed
between
the
‘Background’
and
Staff briefed Members on recent research in the USA which suggested that
eating venison could be harmful to children and pregnant women due to
lead residues. Members noted that the current advice from the Food
Standard Agency was that venison is safe to eat.
Action: Linzi Seivwright
6.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Paper: DMC 5/2009
6.1
Jamie Hammond introduced the paper seeking Members agreement to a
project plan for safeguarding public safety in relation to deer-related vehicle
collisions.
6.2
Following discussion, Members approved the project brief subject to the
inclusion of the following amendments:

Greater emphasis needs to be given to improving data collection where
this is currently insufficient; and
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
Reference to the existing role of Deer Officers in investigating
expressions of concern should be included.
Action: Jamie Hammond
7.
8
BEST PRACTICE PROJECT PROGRESS
Paper: DMC 6/2009
7.1
Linzi Seivwright introduced the paper providing Members with an update on
progress for the Best Practice Project and seeking their approval for DCS’
involvement in the activities proposed by the Steering Group for 2009/2010.
7.2
Members noted project progress to date, in particular progress with the
Best Practice Partnership, the plans to hold two pilot workshops in March
2009 and the plans for workshops and a demonstration event in 2009/2010.
Activities in 2009/2010 would amount to £64,000 with DCS contributing
£45,000.
7.3
Following discussion, Members approved DCS’ involvement in the
activities proposed in the paper by the Steering Group for 2009/2010
subject to consideration of resources by the Resources and Audit
Committee.
DILG PROGRAMME AND SITE UPDATE
Paper: DMC 7/2009
8.1
Robbie Kernahan introduced the paper providing Members with an update
on progress within the DILG programme and towards achieving DCS’
corporate targets.
8.2
Members considered progress on the 6 sites where DCS were the lead
agency for delivering the targets as follows:
Breadalbane
8.3
Dr Barbour declared an interest. Members discussed the need for further
consideration among agency staff about the type of grazing plan to propose
to land managers in the area. Staff are likely to be in a position to negotiate
agreements with land managers from the summer of 2009 onwards.
Upper Deeside
8.4
Dr P Mayhew and the Earl of Dalhousie declared an interest.
8.5
Staff updated Members on action by the Estates to develop woodland
management plans and that a pellet survey of capercaille in Ballochbuie
was planned for the spring. FCS and SNH have assumed joint lead for this
site.
8.6
Members discussed whether the agencies and estates involved were taking
enough action to stop the decline in capercaille numbers in Upper Deeside,
and whether it was possible to put in place measures to protect the SAC
woodland interests at the same time at protection the SPA capercaille
interests. Some Members suggested focusing attention on capercaille in
the short term, returning to the condition of the woodland features
thereafter.
8.7
Members agreed that the agencies should push hard to implement
solutions favourable to the capercaillie interests in 2009.
Action: Donald Fraser
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Alladale
8.8
Staff advised Members that this area would now be addressed alongside
Beinn Dearg, Rhidorroch Woods, and Ben Wyvis within the North Ross
Deer Management Plan. Further progress was subject to all the owners
adopting a collaborative approach.
Ben Nevis
8.9
Staff advised Members that lengthy negotiations may be involved to
progress management of the site due to the complexity of the issues
involved.
Fannich Hills
8.10
Staff reported that, as a result of the habitat impact assessment in the
summer of 2008, it was now likely that the features on this site would be
classed as in favourable condition by 2010.
Caenlochan
8.11
Staff provided Members with an oral update on the most up to date cull
figures. Members noted that target densities were likely to be achieved this
year.
Drumrunie / Inverpolly SAC & SSSI
8.12
Following discussion, Members agreed to seek the amendment of the
current Section 7 agreement on Drumrunie to include Polly Estates and
Eisg-Brachaidh Estate.
Action: Sinclair Coghill
9.
CASE STUDIES ON LOCAL SUSTAINABLE DEER MANAGEMENT
PROGRESS UPDATE FOR OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2008 Paper: DMC /2009
9.1
Ronnie Rose introduced the paper informing Members on the progress of
the Case Studies Project on Local Sustainable Deer Management.
9.2
Members noted the contents of the paper including the Private Sector
Summary Reports for Groupings three (East Sutherland) and six (West
Sutherland).
9.3
Following discussion, Members agreed that staff should undertake the
following:

an analysis of the existing data to draw out key messages;

a review of the data from the Borders group to allow the extra questions
to be answered;

the wider questioning of deer managers outside the 4 groupings to
increase the same size, possible using a web-based survey; and

make the data available more widely to researchers.
Action: Ronnie Rose
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9.4
Staff advised Members that the Steering Group would be carrying out a
review of the direction and objectives of the project when next they met,
taking into account progress to date and DCS’ advice to the Minister for
Environment on changes to the deer legislation.
Action: Robbie Kernahan
10.
STALKING SIGNS
10.1
James Scott introduced the paper informing Members about the work of the
Stalking Sub-Group of the National Access Forum. Mr Shedden noted that
the draft text for signs had recently been modified to clarify the term
‘economic benefit’.
10.2
During the discussion Members made the following points:
10.3
11.
12.
Paper: DMC /2009

Hill walking, particularly at weekends, continues to have a significant
impact on stalking activities;

It is not always easy to forecast where stalking will take place as it
depends where the deer are;

Whilst the signs will not address all the occasions on which hill walkers
disturb stalks, they should reduce the frequency; and

The process of producing the text for the signs has helped to increase
understanding between the different parties.
Members noted the contents of the paper.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
11.1
Members were advised that the DCS Research Sub Committee was
considering proposals for a project to consider the impacts of disturbance
by hill walkers on stalking.
11.2
There was no other business.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
12.1
The next meeting of the Committee will be held on 12th May 2009 in the
Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry.
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Paper 292/9
Draft Minutes of Meeting of Strategy Committee
held on 4th February 2009
Attending:
Mr S Pepper (Convenor)
Prof J Milne
Dr A Barbour
Prof J Pemberton – Items 1 to 7 only
Mr A Hamilton
Mr N Halfhide (Chief Executive)
Mr R Kernahan (Director of Deer Management)
Ms K McNeil (Director of Policy, Projects and Research)
Mr R Edwards (Head of Admin)
Dr L Seivwright (Best Practice Officer)
Mrs J Findlay (Policy Officer)
Mr P Roberts (Research & Data Manager)
Observers
Mr Patrick Hunter Blair (SNH) – Items 1 to 7 only
1.
APOLOGIES
1.1
2.
MINUTES OF LAST MEETING HELD ON 23RD OCTOBER 2008 Paper: S1/2009
2.1
3.
The draft Minutes were approved.
MATTERS ARISING FROM MEETING HELD ON 23RD OCTOBER 2008
Paper: S2/2009
3.1
4.
There were apologies from Dr Sue Walker and Mr A MacGugan.
Members noted the contents of the paper on Matters Arising.
WILD DEER STRATEGY: FIRST IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
AND MONITORING FRAMEWORK
Paper: S 3/2009
4.1
Katy McNeil introduced the paper seeking Members’ agreement on the
approach to finalising the implementation plan and monitoring framework for
‘Scotland’s Wild Deer – A National Approach’.
4.2
Members approved the structure of the document subject to the following
amendments:


change the order of the key themes within the document;
Identify the lead partner for each action;

Emphasise that this is an implementation plan across public agencies
and deer stakeholder organisations;

Explain that actions for public agencies will be included in their individual
Annual Plans; and

Move the summary of the Strategy to the back and explain how the
‘themes’ relate to the ‘objectives’.
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4.3
Members agreed that the final draft of the Implementation Plan would be
circulated to Members of the Committee for comment during March.
Action: Katy McNeil
5.
REVIEW OF LEGISLATION
5.1
Nick Halfhide provided an oral update on the review of legislation, noting
that following the submission of the advice on 12th January, he and the
Chairman had met the Minister for Environment on 28th January. He was
generally content with the proposals and had asked for some further
background briefing on a range of topics including the scale of the deer
welfare concerns and the need to demonstrate skills and knowledge. He
has made it clear that the Scottish Government will consult widely on the
proposals in the late spring, seeking technical input as necessary from
DCS.
5.2
Members discussed how to proceed and agreed the following:

The additional background briefing should set out DCS’ detailed thinking
on the different routes by which stalkers could demonstrate skills and
knowledge, dispelling the myth that this would mean a compulsory test
for all;

This briefing should help the Minister and officials better understand the
advice rather than offer new advice;

DCS should offer to help draft the consultation paper; and

Members needed to be kept informed of further developments.
Action: Katy McNeil
6.
TRENDS IN LAND TENURE, LAND MANAGEMENT AND
SPORTING VALUATIONS
6.1
Andrew Hamilton introduced a paper, circulated earlier in the week by email, which contained his thoughts on trends of land tenure, land
management and sporting valuations. He noted in particular how the
pattern of land ownership and management objectives had changed over
the last 30 years; and how this had made the management of wild deer
more complex. He explained how the sporting potential on an estate
influenced its valuation, explored the impact of other factors on the sale
price of sporting estates, and examined the factors affecting the value of
different game species over the last thirty years.
6.2
Members discussed the ideas and information in the presentation, noting
that there is no link between the valuation of a sporting estate and its
profitability. It was suggested that the number of keepers on grouse estates
had probably increased in recent years.
6.3
Members agreed that these discussion topics were useful and invited Prof
Pemberton to prepare a topic for discussion at the next Committee meeting.
Action: Prof Pemberton
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7.
CASE STUDIES ON LOCAL SUSTAINABLE DEER MANAGEMENT
Paper: S 4/2009
7.1
Robbie Kernahan introduced the paper informing Members of progress on
the Case Studies Project on Local Sustainable Deer Management.
7.2
Members discussed the paper and made the following comments:
7.3

The project should progress to developing trials in the case study areas
to test different approaches to supporting more active local collaborative
deer management;

The outputs of the project would contribute towards the development of
a Code of Practice for local deer management and further changes to
the SRDP;

The project needed to look at different approaches to dealing with the
issue of non-engagement by some land managers;

The objectives of the project needed to be reviewed in light of progress
so far and DCS’ advice to the Minister for Environment on changes to
the deer legislation; and

The summary reports from the groupings need to distinguish between
what is desirable and what is achievable.
Members agreed that staff would carry out a review of how DCS could
facilitate better local collaborative deer management, including through this
project, for consideration by the Committee at their next meeting on 13th
May 2009.
Action: Robbie Kernahan
8.
9.
DCS/SNH MERGER
8.1
Nick Halfhide had provided an oral progress report on the merger the
previous evening to all Board Members.
8.2
Robbie Kernahan outlined the content of the current consultation among
DCS and SNH staff, and external stakeholders, on the future structure of the
merged organisation.
8.3
Members were advised that the DCS Board would be discussing the
outcome of this consultation on 2nd March in order to provide advice to the
Chairman prior to the next Merger Programme Board on 13th March.
SCOTTISH ENVIRONMENTAL AND RURAL SERVICES
PROGRAMME PHASE 2
Paper: S5/2009
9.1
Nick Halfhide introduced the paper updating Members on the progress of
Phase 2 of the Scottish Environmental and Rural Services Programme
(SEARS).
9.2
Members noted that the Strategic Reference Group, comprising the
Chairman of the SEARS organisations, and chaired by the Minister for the
Environment, was due to meet in March to review progress, consider what
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could be announced at the Royal Highland Show in June, and discuss the
interface between SEARS and SRDP.
9.3
10.
11.
RESEARCH SUB-COMMITTEE UPDATE
10.1
Paul Roberts provided the meeting with an oral report of the discussions
which had taken place at the meeting of the Research Sub-Committee on
3rd February 2009.
10.2
He noted the progress of existing research and outlined possible future
research projects including further information on the economic value of
deer to the Scottish economy, and a clearer understanding of public
attitudes to deer and deer control.
10.3
He informed Members that staff were planning seminar in March to explore
the interactions between deer and climate change.
STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OF PARTNERSHIPS
– STRATEGIC THEMES AND NOTES OF MEETINGS
11.1
12.
Members noted the contents of the report.
Paper: S 6/2009
Nick Halfhide introduced the paper, providing Members with an update on
strategic themes arising from meetings and other contacts with partners and
stakeholders for the period October to December 2008. It included draft
notes of the meetings with:
a)
British Deer Society on 1st November 2008;
b)
BASC Scotland on 11th November 2008;
c)
ADMG on 12th November 2008;
d)
Scottish Gamekeepers Association on 14th November 2008; and
e)
Deer Management Round Table on 19th November 2008.
11.2
Members noted that the main topic of discussion was the proposed DCS
Board recommendations for legislative change. Discussion also took place
on the use of non lead ammunition for killing deer in Scotland which was
likely to have a higher profile during 2009 on the back of a conference held
in America. DCS were likely to have an interest in assessing deer welfare
implications of any alternatives produced.
11.3
The Chairman reported that he and Robbie Kernahan had met with the
Chairs and Secretaries of Deer Management Groups in mid January to
outline the advice that DCS had provided to the Minister for Environment on
changes to the deer legislation.
11.4
Members noted the contents of the paper.
RESPONSES TO EXTERNAL CONSULTATIONS
12.1
Paper: S 7/2009
Members noted the contents of Paper: S 7/2009.
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13.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
13.1
14.
There was no other business.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
14.1
The next meeting will be held on 13th May 2009 in the Atholl Palace Hotel,
Pitlochry.
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Draft Minutes of Meeting of Resources and Audit Committee
held on 23rd October 2008
Attending:
Mr A Hamilton (Convenor)
Prof J Milne
Mr S Pepper
Dr P Mayhew
Mr N Halfhide (Chief Executive)
Mr R Kernahan (Director of Deer Management)
Ms K McNeil (Director of Policy, Projects & Research)
Mr R Edwards (Head of Administration)
Mrs J Findlay (Policy Officer)
1
APOLOGIES
1.1
2
There were apologies from Dr Sue Walker and Mr A MacGugan.
MINUTES OF LAST MEETING HELD ON 22ND OCTOBER 2008
Paper: R 1/2009
2.1
The draft Minutes were approved.
3
MATTERS ARISING FROM MEETING HELD ON 22ND OCTOBER 2008
Paper: R 2/2009
3.1
4
Members noted the contents of the paper.
CORPORATE PLAN TARGETS – Q3 2008/2009
Paper: R 3/2009
4.1
Nick Halfhide introduced the paper providing the Committee with an
assessment of progress in Quarter 3 against the targets in the Corporate
Plan for submission to the Scottish Government.
4.2
Members noted that significant progress had been made in Quarter 3
through the review of deer legislation, bringing more features on designated
sites into the joint working process, and in planning activities for the
promotion of wild venison. The Minister for Environment had launched the
Wild Deer Strategy in November 2008.
4.3
Nick Halfhide explained that the main area of concern remained DCS’
ability to reach the target of 95% of features on designated sites affected by
wild deer being in favourable or unfavourable recovering condition by 2010.
Members noted that DCS and its partners had made good progress over
recent months and estimated that approximately 92% of features would
reach this target by 2010. Staff were continuing to examine ways to
address the remaining features as quickly as possible.
4.4
He further explained that the other area of concern was the target to
reduce DCS’ carbon footprint by 10% by 2011 and this would be discussed
by the Committee under a separate item later in the meeting.
4.5
Members discussed progress in Quarter 3 and agreed that the assessment
of the progress against the targets in the Corporate Plan in Annex 1 be
submitted to the Scottish Government with the following amendments:
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
the headings on the report should be amended to make it clear that the
traffic light predictions related to the 3 year targets as judged at the end
of each quarter; and

an addition comment should be included for target H that staff
considered DCS to be on course to reach its carbon reduction target for
2008-2009.
Action: Nick Halfhide
5
QUARTER 3 REVIEW OF ANNUAL BUSINESS PLAN
AND BUDGET
Paper: R 4/2009
5.1
Nick Halfhide presented the paper providing Members with a review of
DCS’ performance in Quarter 3 of the Annual Business Plan.
5.2
Two areas of concern were highlighted. These were:
5.3
a)
1.1
The Programme Board to oversee the Government’s target
for the condition of features on designated sites had not been set up
but SNH plans to do so in Quarter 4; and
b)
5.3
neither the Research sub-committee nor FCS supported
further research at this stage to better quantify the costs of land
managers of deer damage to crops.
Following discussion, Members agreed the review of progress for Quarter 3
subject to amending Annual Plan target 16.2 from amber to green.
Action: Nick Halfhide
Budget
6
5.4
Members noted the report of spend against budget for the first three
quarters. This showed that spend of £1,113,223 in the first three quarters
was 92% of the £1,215,257 budgeted. The underspend was as a mixture
of delays in invoices and activities rescheduled to later in the financial year.
The predicted underspend for the year was £28,099, within the 2% target.
5.5
Members also noted that income to 31st December 2008 amounted to
£12,124.
DCS ANNUAL BUSINESS PLAN FOR 2009 - 2010
Paper: R /2009
6.1
Nick Halfhide presented the paper providing a draft Annual Business Plan
for 2009 – 2010. This proposed continuing to put significant resources into
the condition of features on designated sites whilst also making provision
for more detailed activities for the corporate targets on wild venison,
engaging with local authorities in relation to deer around towns, and road
safety.
6.2
He noted that the draft would require further alteration to take account of
discussions on individual projects at the recent Deer Management
Committee, Strategy Committee, and Research Sub-committee.
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6.3 Members discussed and agreed the draft Plan subject to the following
amendments:
6.4

Consideration should be given to changing the budget for Best Practice
from £45,000 to £30,000 and higher contributions sought for this project
from partners, including SNH;

Consideration should be given to increasing the budget for collaborative
deer management, and both FCS and SNH encouraged to contribute
resources to testing different approaches;

outstanding costs for the research project on Natura case law should be
included, along with allocations for projects emerging from the research
sub-committee; and

capital expenditure of £40,000 to be included at this stage to cover
items that may occur during the year.
Members agreed that a revised draft plan and budget be prepared and
circulated to Members for comment prior to being presented to the DCS
Board in March 2009 for approval.
Action: Nick Halfhide
7
8
9
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND TARGETS
Paper: R 28/2008
7.1
Jessica Findlay presented the paper reviewing DCS’ performance towards
its target of reducing its carbon footprint by 10% by 2011.
7.2
Members noted that staff were predicting that, based on the information
available, DCS expected to reach its target of achieving an overall
reduction of 3% in its carbon footprint by the end of 2008/09 but that the
2009/10 and 2010/11 targets remained very challenging.
7.3
Members discussed additional measures and agreed recommendations
building on achievement to date to further reduce car mileage by greater
use of public transport, video conferencing, and car sharing.
STAFFING UPDATE
8.1
Nick Halfhide provided the meeting with an oral update on staffing issues.
8.2
Members noted that:

James Scott had taken up post as Deer Officer West;

Ms Vicki Mowat had taken up post as part-time Media Officer; and

Ms Katy McIntosh had taken up post as Procurement Officer to cover
maternity leave.
DCS ACCIDENT AND NEAR MISS REPORT Q3 2008/2009
9.1
Members noted that there were no near miss or accident reports for the
period from 1st October 2008 to 31st December 2008.
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10
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
10.1
11
There was no other business.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
11.1
The next meeting of the Committee will be held on 13th May 2009 in the
Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry.
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External Meetings Attended/
To Be Attended by Chairman and Chief Executive
EXTERNAL MEETINGS ATTENDED
Date
Staff
5-Dec-08
Chairman, Chief
Executive
5-Dec-08
Chairman, Chief
Executive
10-Ded-08
Chairman
11-Dec-08
Chief Executive
12-Dec-08
Chief Executive
15-Dec-08
16-Dec-08
Chief Executive
Chairman
17-Dec-08
7-Jan-09
Chief Executive
Chairman, Chief
Executive
Chief Executive
Chairman
15-Jan-09
16-Jan-09
20-Jan-09
28-Jan-09
10-Feb-09
12-Feb-09
16-Feb-09
Chief Executive
Chairman, Chief
Executive
Chairman, Chief
Executive
Chief Executive
Chief Executive
18-Feb-09
19-Feb-09
Chairman, Chief
Executive
Chief Executive
Chief Executive
Chairman
Chief Executive
23/24-Feb-09
Chief Executive
27-Feb-09
Chief Executive
17-Feb-09
Meeting
Merger Programme Board
Location
Battleby
Environment LINK liaison
Battleby
RSPB Reception
SNH Whitley Council
SEARs Programme Board
Edinburgh
Inverness
Edinburgh (VC
from Inv)
Battleby
Inverness
Organisational Merger Project Board
Monadhliaths Deer Management
Group
SNH HR liaison
Venison Parliamentary Reception
Inverness
Edinburgh
SNH Business Planning
Association of Deer Management
Groups Executive Meeting
Merger Workstreams Update
Minister for Environment
Inverness
Edinburgh
DCS/SNH Liaison Meeting
Inverness
Merger Senior User Group
Organisational Merger Project
Board
HIE/SNH Board Members and
senior managers dinner
SNH Board Meeting
SNH HR liaison
ADMG AGM
SEARS Programme Board
Inverness
Inverness
Scottish Government Leaders
Meeting
Scottish Government and SNH HR
EXTERNAL MEETINGS TO BE ATTENDED
Date
Staff
Meeting
11-Mar-09
Chairman, Chief
Environment LINK liaison
Executive
12-Mar-09
Chairman, Chief
Merger Strategic Integration Project
Executive
Board
13-Mar-09
Chairman, Chief
Merger Programme Board
Executive
17-Mar-09
Chief Executive
NDPB CEO Forum
Inverness
Dunkeld
Inverness
Inverness
Inverness
Kingussie
Edinburgh (VC
from Inv)
Edinburgh
Inverness
Location
Birnam
Inverness
Battleby
Edinburgh
Paper: 292/11
23-Mar-09
Chairman
30-Mar-09
Chairman, Chief
Executive
Chairman, Chief
Executive
Chief Executive
Chief Executive
Chief Executive
Chairman, Chief
Executive
21-Apr-09
23-Apr-09
29/30-Apr-09
7-May-09
20-May-09
Caenlochan Section 7 Steering
Group Meeting
Climate Change Workshop
Spittal of
Glenshee
Birnam
SNH Board meeting
Inverness
Organisational Merger Project Board
SNH Management Forum
SEARs Programme Board
DMRT
Inverness
Stirling
Edinburgh
Bridge of
Allan