Environment

Encouraging slow, sustainable tourism from the heart of a visitor hotspot saw a Loch Ness initiative scoop a prestigious Highland Heroes accolade.

A further phase of development is getting underway at Wick Business Park that will support economic growth and strengthen population retention.

Weather Watch by Keith Banks

Making Space for Nature by John Orr

James Tait from Mey ploughed his way to a respectable third position in a ploughing championship match in England over the first weekend of March.

A survey on priorities for rural areas could result in a “direct threat” to wellbeing and quality of life, a Caithness campaign group has warned.

The problems posed by the Highlands’ 516-mile NC500 route are undeniably tricky – and almost everyone has very strong opinions about it.

Highland councillors will raise no objection to West of Orkney Windfarm’s offshore plans at a site around 25km from the north Sutherland coast.

On one hand, tourism from the NC500 is vital to the Highland economy, but on the other hand, many communities feel they are at breaking point.

As the North Coast 500 marks its 10th anniversary, our podcast discusses the issues that the popular route have brought, as well as the benefits.

Carol Gunn of Ackergill is buzzing with excitement after winning a gold medal at the Honey Madness Cup in Poland on March 1.

A Caithness-based countryside ranger has outlined issues faced by wildlife from the invasive American mink and steps taken to monitor the creature.

A proposed five-turbine wind farm mooted for a site near Thurso has been refused by planners despite changes made to a previous application.

The prospect of satellite launches from the mothballed north Sutherland spaceport has been rekindled.

Thurso is to get its own version of The Repair Shop, allowing those with a much-loved item that has seen better days to have it fixed free of charge.

Crofters are being warned they could be turfed out if they neglect their duties.

Rural communities and tourism businesses can be exposed to risks of out-of-control wildfires as spring gets under way, emergency workers have warned.

Food and drink businesses in the region can get support with their net zero ambitions thanks to a new support programme.

Thurso beach had a colourful display of flags and temporary art at a special event to bring the community together and address mental health issues.

Highland based food and drink producers have until March 28 to enquire about a new support programme aimed at helping the sector cut carbon emissions.