BY CALUM CAMPBELL
The recent wildfires in Moray have left a trail of destruction, with stories circulating and facts still emerging. What’s clear is that lessons must be learned—and acted upon—to better handle such disasters in the future.
While many are more qualified to speak on this, here are my thoughts.
How the Fires Started
The Coastguard, during an exercise near Carrbridge, fired a flare that ignited a fire in the dry conditions. Estate gamekeepers contained it initially, but high winds reignited the blaze, which then spread across the B9007 road, through Muckrach. The Coastguard has reportedly admitted liability.
Another fire on the Dava was allegedly started by picnickers. Police Scotland are investigating both incidents.
One thing is certain: these fires were not caused by estate heather burning.
Who Should Fight Wildfires?
The Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) excels at house fires—but for wildfires, gamekeepers, estate staff, and farmers are the true experts. They have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to tackle these blazes effectively.
This isn’t a criticism of the SFRS—they do incredible work—but they lack the training and tools for wildfires. They operate from roads, limited by hose reach, though they do assist by filling Argo water tanks for gamekeepers. When lives or property are at risk, they step up—and we’re deeply grateful.
Gamekeepers, however, work miles from roads, using specialised equipment. During the 2019 Moray wildfire, firefighters stopped at night due to safety protocols—gamekeepers worked through the darkness when winds dropped, making containment easier. Yet, MSP Richard Lochhead thanked only the SFRS, ignoring their efforts.
The Helicopter Problem
Last weekend, no helicopter was available to help—despite being crucial for wildfire control. During heather-burning season, estates must confirm insurance to request one. But in summer, when fires threaten forests or homes, the Chief Fire Officer should have authority to call one without delay.
Reportedly, no certified pilot was available to fly with water carriers. If the Coastguard is liable, who pays for damages? One estate lost a £50,000 stock fence—costs that will hit insurance premiums or taxpayers. A helicopter on standby could have been cheaper.
Flawed Policies and Rewilding Risks
The Scottish Government’s new heather-burning regulations—requiring licenses and banning burns on deep peat—will increase wildfire risks. Unburnt heather accumulates as fuel, a danger ignored to appease “rewilding” advocates.
Muckrach Estate, a rewilding project, had no gamekeepers or shepherds left—just one staff member with no firefighting equipment. At a spring meeting with Scottish Forestry and CNPA, I warned that their fire mitigation plan (swiping heather 6m inside fences) was ineffective. The tree-planting mounds would also worsen fires, smouldering for days and damaging peat.
Despite receiving government grants, Muckrach had no Argo or water bowser for emergencies. I swore I wouldn’t help if a wildfire struck—but guilt set in when it happened.
Joining the Fight
On Monday, I answered the SGA’s call for help, meeting two Argo operators in Grantown. With my certification, I drove one, working alongside Colin McLean (CNPA, ex-gamekeeper). Ironically, we were sent to Muckrach.
The scene was dire—teams with leaf blowers and beaters made no progress. Colin and I took turns driving and operating the pump until the Argo broke down mid-fire. Smoke thickened, flames closed in, and we barely escaped, navigating a locked gate and treacherous terrain.
Rain eventually doused the flames—but not before devastation.
The Human and Ecological Cost
Rewilders mocked the efforts online, revealing their ignorance. Wildfires don’t spare trees (see Canada, Alaska) or rewetted land. They destroy wildlife—merlin chicks, hares, sheep—and terrify communities. My granddaughter begged me not to return as smoke choked Grantown, where residents feared evacuation.
Gamekeepers, farmers, and locals worked tirelessly—some for three days without proper rest or food. Their dedication was humbling. Rewilders? Nowhere to be seen.
Community Spirit
Grantown’s response was incredible—food, water, and offers of help poured in. The community’s unity was inspiring.
Final Thoughts
Would I do it again? Absolutely. But we need change:
- Better wildfire resources (helicopters, trained personnel).
- Recognition of gamekeepers’ role in firefighting.
- Policy reform—current rewilding measures increase fire risks.
Thank you to everyone who helped.
Moray’s resilience is extraordinary—but let’s ensure we’re better prepared next time.