A battalion of farmers has been drafted in as part of Perth and Kinross Council’s “battle plans” to tackle the worst of the winter weather.
A network of around 70 farmers will assist with snow clearance on 300km of rural roads, and some farmers have indicated they are willing to help clear additional routes, when required.
The measures to prepare winter weather maintenance services will be outlined to the enterprise and infrastructure committee.
Members are aiming to ensure that the 900km of Perth and Kinross roads designated as “priority” are treated. Priority treatment is also directed at paths in busy areas.
A lower level of service is provided elsewhere, but the council says it will still try to treat the majority.
The report to committee highlights ways that local communities have shown a growing willingness to get involved and help clear snow and ice from local roads and footways. Initiatives such as the Snow Warden scheme where individuals or community councils are given barrows to grit sections of carriageway will be developed.
The total budget for severe weather services for 2013/14 will be £3.317m and winter maintenance staff will be on standby between October 14 and April 14 next year.