Aberdeen University student Andrew Ewing calls for help of Wester Ross farmers in sea eagle bid
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FARMERS and crofters in Wester Ross are being asked to help a research student with a subject of which some may have intimate knowledge.
Student Andrew J Ewing has set his sights on a career in conflict resolution with a specific interest in the countryside.
The 22-year-old, who is studying for a degree in French and geography, is carrying out research into the presence of sea eagles in the area – an issue which has proved contentious in years gone by.
The final-year Aberdeen University student is currently in the process of gathering data for his dissertation. He said: “As part of my data-gathering process I would like to invite farmers/crofters to partake in a one-on-one online interview with me. During the interview, I will pose questions to you regarding your opinions on the presence of sea eagles in Scotland.
“We will go over questions relating to conflict, management, issues, and benefits of their presence.”
Speaking about his own plans, he said: “After graduation I hope to travel (Covid-permitting) before getting a job in conflict resolution, particularly surrounding the rewilding debate.”
His mother was born in Inverness and his grandmother grew up on Rum where his great-grandfather was a gamekeeper. One of his grandfathers, meanwhile, farmed in Caithness.
In a Wester Ross online forum he wrote: “I’ve already posted this, and I’m still in desperate need of more viewpoints – if you or someone you know might be interested, feel free to get in contact.”
Any farmers or crofters interested in taking part are invited to get back to him on his student email which is u04ae18@abdn.ac.uk