Campaigners for a Galloway National Park are calling on Scots to “seize the moment” for St Andrew’s Day.
The Galloway National Park Association is encouraging people to take part in a consultation over whether the region should become Scotland’s third national park.
The group claims national park status would bring a range of benefits, including boosting efforts to tackle the climate crisis.
However, opponents of the proposal have a string of concerns, including over-tourism and rising house prices and want to see improving infrastructure take priority.
Galloway National Park Association chairman, Rob Lucas, said: “The outcome of Cop29 was mixed but the urgent need to act on climate change is only growing.
“Scotland may only be a small country but it can take a stand, set an example to the world and make a difference.
“We have been campaigning for a National Park in Galloway, South and East Ayrshire since 2017 because it’s a straightforward and effective way to help in the battle against the climate crisis.
“As Scotland’s National Day approaches we urge people who live in the area, or have strong connections, to seize the moment, take part in the consultation and give their backing to a new national park.
“It’s great for Galloway, great for Scotland and great for the future of our planet.”
The consultation, which is being run by NatureScot, can be found by clicking here.
It will run until February 14, 2025.