Supporting nature’s recovery: SSEN Transmission volunteers at Bamff Wildland

A blog by Kate Conlan, Sustainability Engagement Lead, at SSEN Transmission 

At SSEN Transmission, we’re proud to play our part in supporting the communities and environments where we live and work. Our volunteering days give colleagues the opportunity to get involved with projects that make a positive difference - whether that’s lending a hand in community hubs, helping local groups, or supporting environmental initiatives across the north of Scotland. 

Last week, members of our Sustainability Team took their volunteering day outdoors to Bamff Wildland - a rewilding project located near our Alyth substation in Perthshire. The team spent the day supporting Bamff’s mission to restore and protect native habitats and biodiversity in the area.

Image: The Sustainability Team at Bamff Wildland

Giving nature room to thrive 

In the morning, the group got stuck into removing a 17-year-old deer fence that had once been vital to protecting young native trees. With the trees now well-established and thriving, the fence was no longer needed. Its removal marks an important milestone in the area’s recovery - allowing deer and other wildlife to move freely once again through the regenerating woodland. 

Every part of the fence was carefully dismantled, with the salvageable materials set aside to be reused in other locations across the estate - helping to ensure that nothing reusable went to waste.

Tackling invasive species 

After a well-earned lunch break, the volunteers turned their attention to tackling invasive rhododendron, a non-native species that can outcompete and smother native plants if left unchecked. By removing these fast-spreading shrubs, the team helped give native flora a better chance to flourish, supporting a richer and more balanced ecosystem for the future.

It was a brilliant day out for the team and a rewarding opportunity to see the impact of their efforts firsthand. Bamff Wildland is undertaking incredible work to restore biodiversity and allow natural processes to take the lead once more.  

The day also served as a powerful reminder of how collaboration and practical support can make a tangible difference - both to the environment and to those working tirelessly to protect it.

Helping people and nature 

SSEN Transmission’s volunteering programme plays an important role in supporting both communities and the environment across its network area. Whether it’s assisting local organisations in delivering essential services or contributing to projects that enhance Scotland’s natural heritage, each volunteering day offers colleagues the chance to live the company’s values and make a positive, lasting impact. 

The team extended their thanks to everyone at Bamff Wildland for their warm welcome and guidance throughout the day. It was a privilege to support such inspiring work and to play a small part in helping nature to thrive once again.

Get started with volunteering   

If you’re a community group or charity in our network area in the north of Scotland, we would love to hear from you. It only takes a couple of minutes to find out more about our volunteering opportunities and register your interest: https://www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/volunteering  

Please note, as our team works on a voluntary basis, it may take us some time to coordinate our people and match them with opportunities. We kindly ask for your patience as we work to keep up with volunteering demand.