There’s a new face helping people discover and enjoy the incredible landscapes, wildlife and heritage of North West Sutherland.
High Life Highland is delighted to welcome Jack Capener as our new Countryside Ranger for North West Sutherland, joining a team of Rangers working across the North Highlands to connect people with nature and care for some of Scotland’s most special places.
“Rangers act as bridges between people and the natural world, interpreting the landscape and taking care of the environment, so it’s a real pleasure to be stepping into this role.”
Countryside Ranger
Originally from Edinburgh, Jack brings a wealth of enthusiasm and a diverse range of experience to the role, including time spent as a trainee Ranger with the Cairngorms National Park Authority. Alongside a passion for wildlife and conservation, he has a keen interest in Gaelic language and culture, something he hopes to incorporate into his work across the area.
A bridge between people and nature
For Jack, becoming a Ranger is about much more than looking after the environment. It’s about helping people experience and understand the natural world around them.
“It’s wonderful to join the team as North West Sutherland’s Countryside Ranger,” says Jack. “Rangers act as bridges between people and the natural world, interpreting the landscape and taking care of the environment, so it’s a real pleasure to be stepping into this role.”
With its dramatic mountains, expansive coastlines, rich wildlife and deep cultural roots, North West Sutherland offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
“This north-western corner of Scotland is such a unique and varied place and I’ll be working to share its magic with visitors and locals alike, making people aware of the incredible flora, fauna and cultural heritage we have on our doorstep. From the machair to the mountains, there’s really nowhere like Dùthaich MhicAoidh.”
Bringing Gaelic and nature together
One of the aspects of the role that particularly excites Jack is the opportunity to explore the connections between language, culture and the natural environment.
As a Gaelic learner, he is keen to highlight the role the language plays in understanding and interpreting the landscape, while encouraging people to engage more deeply with the natural world around them.
“As a Gaelic learner, I’m particularly interested in bringing the Gaelic language and culture to the fore in my work, as well as encouraging people to explore nature mindfully and ask questions about the world we live in.”
Supporting communities and inspiring future generations
Jack joins six other High Life Highland Countryside Rangers delivering a year-round programme of activities across the North Highlands. From guided walks and public events to school visits, environmental education sessions and biodiversity projects, the Ranger Service plays an important role in helping people of all ages connect with nature.
Whether it’s introducing children to local wildlife, helping communities care for their natural surroundings or sharing the stories behind the landscapes we love, Rangers help create meaningful connections between people and place.
Looking ahead
Imogen Furlong, Head of Countryside Services at High Life Highland, is delighted to welcome Jack to the team.
“We are delighted to welcome Jack to the Countryside Ranger team. Following Donald Mitchell’s retirement, Jack’s appointment ensures we can continue to provide valuable year-round support for communities across North West Sutherland. I am confident he will become a highly valued member of the team in this remarkable part of the Highlands.”
As summer gets underway, Jack will be developing a programme of guided walks, events and activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Keep an eye on High Life Highland’s social media channels and the Nature Unveiled blog for wildlife updates, seasonal stories and opportunities to get involved.
High Life Highland Countryside Ranger Service
Want to know more about the work of our Rangers?
