230830 LOAF Paper Caper dates

This document contains a proposal to extend the period during which dogs must be kept on leads in sensitive capercaillie areas within the Cairngorms National Park. Currently, dogs must be on leads from 1 April to 15 August to protect the endangered capercaillie during their breeding season. Due to recent observations showing that young capercaillie chicks are still vulnerable until late August or early September, there is a suggestion to extend the "dogs on leads" period to 31 August. The Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum (LOAF) is being asked to support this extension, which aims to improve chick survival rates. Previous discussions with the LOAF have taken place, and a decision is sought on whether to implement the extended dates for the use of "dogs on leads" signage across the Park.