River Tweed scarcity warning upgraded as water levels near record low
Last updated 56 minutes ago
It's one of the most famous salmon-fishing rivers in the world.
But water levels on the Tweed are among the lowest on record, following weeks of dry weather across the Scottish Borders.
Latest figures released by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency reveal July flows at the Coldstream gauging station reached the second lowest seen at the site since records began in 1971.
As a result, the river's catchment area has now moved from Alert to Moderate Scarcity level, which means some restrictions on licensed water extractions could be imposed.
The latest warning comes amid growing concern about the impact low river levels and rising temperatures can have on fish and wildlife.
Jamie Stewart, Chief Executive of the River Tweed Commission and the Tweed Foundation, told Greatest Hits Radio: "Over the last few years we've seen a noticeable pattern of weather with drier later springs and summers with prolonged periods of low rainfall.
"This year has been no exception with a lack of any meaningful rain from June and these conditions have a significant impact on the river and the animals and the wildlife that depend on it."
The Tweed is one of four additional catchments to move into Moderate Scarcity this week, alongside the Tyne, Firth of Forth and Firth of Tay.
Moderate Scarcity is a step above Alert on SEPA's water scarcity scale and reflects increasing pressure on rivers and the environment.
Mr Stewart warned that fish including Atlantic salmon and trout are particularly vulnerable during periods of low flow.
"When river levels fall and water temperatures rise, fish such as Atlantic salmon and trout come under increasing stress," he said.
"Warmer water contains less dissolved oxygen and fish naturally seek refuge in the deepest pools where the water is cooler, or in the fast-flowing areas where the oxygen levels are higher.
"During these periods they conserve energy and are less able to cope with the additional stress from disturbance."
The River Tweed Commission is asking visitors to take care around the river during the current warm spell, to avoid disturbing the fish where possible.
"Small changes in how we use it during periods of hot dry weather can make a real difference," he said.
"I've already advised anglers to fish responsibly, to follow the guidance for angling in warm water and to minimise handling of fish. And, if the conditions continue to deteriorate and water temperatures reach 20 degrees, to consider whether they should be fishing at all."
Describing the importance of the river, he added: "The River Tweed is one of Scotland's most important rivers for wildlife and small changes in how we use it during periods of hot dry weather can make a real difference.
"By respecting the river and the species that depend on it we can all help to ensure it remains healthy for our future generations."
What happens now?
SEPA is advising businesses and other organisations that take water directly from the environment to:
• monitor how much water they are using;
• use water as efficiently as possible;
• keep equipment in good working order to reduce leaks and losses;
• understand the water scarcity level in their catchment;
• have contingency plans in place should conditions worsen.
Eilidh Johnston, SEPA Senior Leader in Compliance, said: “While conditions are not as severe as they were at this point last year, the coming weeks and months are a critical time for water demand.
“Those who take water directly from rivers, lochs and groundwater should already be taking steps to use less, plan ahead and make sure they are prepared if conditions continue to deteriorate.”
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