Active Cairngorms SEA environmental baseline

This document contains an environmental baseline assessment for Cairngorms National Park. Water is a key topic, focusing on its heritage and the importance of maintaining its quality, as well as covering the issues of pollution from point and diffuse sources. It also discusses catchment management plans for the Dee, Esk, and Spey rivers. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) monitors water quality, and waterbody status has changed between 2007 and 2020, with predictions suggesting improvement by 2027 due to remediation. The document goes into detail about the monitoring of water levels, flood risks, and water infrastructure. Soil is another key area that is covered, including soil types, their agricultural classification and use, and the risk of soil erosion. There is a focus on organic matter in soils and government regulations that are in place. The material assets of the area is also discussed, which includes geo-conservation, waste, energy, transport infrastructure and digital infrastructure. It also covers the topic of biodiversity, which includes key habitats and species for conservation and details of protected sites. The document covers the landscape of Cairngorms National Park, touching on the history, mountains, moorland, glens and the key qualities of the area. Historic and cultural heritage is covered as well as information on the people living in the Cairngorms National Park.