A COUNCIL has issued a plea to dog walkers amid a growing number of dog fouling incidents on a popular walk.
The Loch Alsh woodland trail has seen an increasing number of owners apparently forgetting to pick up after their pets, as Highland Council, Lochalsh Community Council and Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) urged dog owners to take any mess away with them.
Locals and staff said it is disappointing to see the amount of mess being left on, or right next to, the path at the well-visited Ard Hill circular trail near Balmacara.
Several ideas are being looked at to support the safe and sanitary disposal of dog poo at the site, including the creation of an area to compost any waste.
FLS visitor services ranger Sandra Lindsay said: “Ard Hill is a perfect place for locals to walk or visitors heading to Skye to stop and stretch two and four legs on the way.
“But unfortunately, the actions of a small but seemingly growing number of dog owners are spoiling the experience for others. It also presents a real hazard for the staff who maintain the path.
“A recent walk by FLS and council staff revealed around 20 incidences of dog fouling left behind on just a small stretch of the trail.
“This takes away from allowing people to take in the fresh sea air and sweeping coastal views while keeping a look out for otters, seals and dolphins in the tranquil waters of Loch Alsh below or buzzards and eagles flying above.
“For the minority of dog owners who don’t already, we are asking please respect other woodland users, be prepared so you can clean up after your animal, keep dogs in sight and under control.”
Meanwhile, Siobhan Barker from Lochalsh Community Council said: “It’s so important that owners have the means to always pick up after their dogs and take the mess away with them too.
“Our woodlands are key parts of the local community, and we want to ensure that they are environmentally safe and inviting places for people to visit and for council and FLS staff to go about their work.”
