Local Nature Reserves (LNR)

Key Findings

The LNR designation is applied to areas of important local natural heritage (NatureScot, 2024). They may be designated for research, preservation or educational purposes (Scottish Natural Heritage, 2000).

LNRs will always be small areas, located within the local authority that designates them. The responsibility of their management is generally taken up by the local countryside ranger service (NatureScot, 2024). An example of one of Aberdeenshire’s LNRs is the Arnhall Moss LNR in Westhill (Aberdeenshire Council, n.d.)

Figure 1: NMPi - LNR in North East Scotland

Notes

Linked Information Sheets

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

Ramsar Sites

Special Protected Areas (SPAs)

Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)

National Nature Reserves (NNR)

Local Nature Conservation Sites (LNCS)

Key sources of Information

Aberdeenshire Council (n.d.) Local nature reserve

NatureScot (2024) Local Nature Reserves

Scottish Natural Heritage (2000) Local Nature Reserves in Scotland – A Guide to their Selection and Declaration

Reviewed on/by

20/08/2024 by Cathryn Lovie

22/08/2024 by Ian Hay

10/03/2025 by Charlotte Tomlinson

Status

Live - Next update 20/08/2026

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Contact us

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E-mail: ian.hay@stateofthecoast.scot