Allt nan Carnan
Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Upland birch woodland | Unfavourable Declining | — | 2007-02-12 |
Geology & landscape
Geological Feature: Gorge / Ravine · Rock Type: Gneiss
Landscape processes: Fluvial
Description
ALLT NAN CARNAN Allt nan Carnan SSSI is a deeply incised gorge approximately 3.5 kms in length which is located to the north west of the village of Lochcarron on the north shore of Loch Carron. The site is one of Wester Ross’s more acidic examples of a gorge woodland and is the one most influenced by the proximity of the sea. The site contains a range of native tree species characteristic of nutrient poor soils, here developed from Lewisian gneiss. Birch and hazel are dominant with rowan, aspen, holly and willows. Oak and ash occur only occasionally. The ground flora is characteristic of damp shady conditions with little or no grazing pressure. Dwarf, shrubby heather is abundant along with grasses and fern ledges. Only where seepages occur are tall herb ledge communities present. Very locally, more nutrient rich bands of rock provide conditions for more varied flora.