Scotland’s juniper is in a critical state. Over the last two years a deadly fungal disease (Phytophthora austrocedrae) is having a potentially devastating effect on the ancient gin-giving bush, and it continues to face a number of other significant threats.
In 2013 Murdo Fraser was named as Juniper Species Champion as part of a Scottish Environment Link initiative. As part of his role he has lodged a Parliamentary motion urging ordinary Scots to participate in National Juniper Day.
On the 15th of March (National Juniper Day) Plantlife Scotland is looking for volunteers to help them record the health of juniper throughout Scotland over the coming months. The first 20 to do so will receive a free bottle of gin courtesy of No.3 London Dry Gin.
Juniper has been lost from a quarter of areas where it was previously found across the UK and Plantlife are deeply concerned about its future.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Juniper is an ancient Scottish species and as someone who enjoys the odd gin and tonic it was natural choice to become its Champion.
“As part of my role I have visited a testing site within Perthshire and held discussions with Plantlife on the best course to protect and encourage the growth of Juniper within Scotland.
“As a vital component of the biodiversity of Scotland’s native woodlands it is important that we continue with our current efforts to ensure its survival.
“I would encourage everyone within Mid-Scotland and Fife to get involved with National Juniper Day and if you are one of the lucky 20 survey respondents you might get a bottle of gin for your efforts.”
Deborah Long from Plantlife Scotland said:
“Juniper with its blueish green needles and green or black berries is easy to identify. On National juniper day we are asking people to help us until September to complete a survey form every time they see juniper in Scotland. If you are planning to go out walking then this is the ideal opportunity for you to take part.
“We are especially interested in any orange or brown bushes, which could indicate infection by Phytophthora austrocedrae – although other causes, such as frost or grazing animals, could be to blame. If such symptoms are seen people should document this on their survey form but ensure they either keep out of the area altogether or, if that is not possible, keep well away from such bushes. We would also ask people to avoid wet areas and clean mud thoroughly from their boots, equipment and animals when they leave.”