The partnership work between wildland and conservation charity John Muir Trust (JMT) and community land owner West Harris Trust (WHT) will continue for a further four years thanks to the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The two organisations have been working in partnership for the past seven years to develop and manage nearly 18,000 acres of land in South Harris.
The agreement will allow the JMT to support WHT in its conservation management and for WHT to support the JMT in developing policy and management practices through sharing experiences gained in community-led conservation management.
Since purchasing the estate from the Scottish Government in 2010, WHT has focused on reversing population decline and developing a financially sustainable business model.
Developments delivered to date include wind and hydro electric projects with a combined capacity of 258kw, Talla na Mara, a community enterprise centre, and through a partnership with the Hebridean Housing Partnership, six affordable homes for rent.
As a result, the permanent population of the area has risen from 119 to 151, a 27% increase.
In addition to ensuring the financial sustainability of the estate, WHT aims to ensure the conservation of its stunning natural environment.
The organisation works with JMT to achieve this, with regular volunteer work parties visiting the estate throughout the summer months.
Previous groups have restored sections of drystone dykes, carried out beach cleans and planted trees.
