The primary suspicion was that the ageing, immense Hydro scheme that had long been in operation was in some way obstructing Salmon from entering and navigating the river. Scottish Power who had recently aquired the dam system were requested to look in to this, resulting in an improved fish ladder and an ongoing study of the impact of the Hydro Scheme throughout the river system.

The other main influenceable cause of damage to the existing run of Salmon and indeed the extinction of Salmonids from some areas was clearly due to acidification from both atmospheric pollution and the extensive blanket of coniferous forestry that dominates large areas of the catchment.

The Forestry Commision although unable to remedy the situation in the short term (trials with limeing proved ineffectual and costly) have recently started working with the new forestry strategy which makes much better provision for fishery interests. Levels of acid rain are lowering making the long term prospects bright for the more acidified waters in the catchment. The Dee Fishery Board hopes to work closely with the Forestry Commision on all issues pertaining to the health and vitality of the water courses of the Dee catchment.

The Fishery Board are working closely with Scottish Power and the West Galloway Fisheries Trust to ensure fish have every chance to ascend the Hydroscheme dams and reproduce in the most suitable environments. Together they helped research and sponsor the initial restocking of feeder burns through the hard work of the local angling association hatchery. The results were positive and the Board is pressing ahead with examining the best methods to go forward in this endeavor.

The extensive survey work of the West Galloway Fisheries Trust whom the Board and Scottish Power have brought in to examine the river system and its fish populations has identified both healthy areas and problem aspects. With this reference tool the Fishery Board is able to identify where efforts are best spent. The upper Ken and Deuch offer a huge area suitable for Salmon to spawn and thrive. At present, due to access restrictions that can be overcome (dams without fish ladders or smolt passes), this area holds no Salmon. Research is underway to ascertain the best way to return fish to these headwaters.

Meanwhile river improvements are underway on the many small feeder burns where habitat improvements make these important tributaries more accessable and suitable for Salmonids. These improvements also clear the way for stocking out any hatchery reared Ova or Fry in the near future.

As a tool to maximise survival of adult Salmon and promote conservation amongst anglers the Fishery Board have been promoting the‘Catch and Release’ of Salmon especially the early ‘Spring’ fish that are most rare and desirably large. Catch and release gives the best of both worlds. Anglers still get their sport and the fishery retains it’s precious adult fish with the potential for breeding intact. As a knock on effect the angler becomes more aware of the serious concerns there are for the Salmon populations. The Board has also brought into place a restriction on Shrimp and Prawn as a bait. This is again to reduce the impact of angling and bring awareness to the angler that these fish require protection.

With the present level of interest and effort, improvements in the numbers of Salmon both entering and surviving within the catchment are achievable. It may be a slow hard climb or an instant revelation that solves the problems we are beset with. Of one thing we can be sure, the dedication of the individuals who strive to protect and improve this watercourse will reward every water user. Environments fit for and full of Salmonids are fit for all the waterlife we love to watch or catch...