Low river levels persist in some areas despite recent rain, Sepa warns

Recent rainfall has not been sufficient to alleviate water scarcity in some parts Scotland, environmentalists have warned.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) said on Thursday that low river levels persist, particularly in the east.

With more rain forecast in the coming days, the agency said it will have to be well above average to reverse the effects of the dry spell.

Eight river catchments remain at the moderate scarcity level – the Spey, Deveron, Ythan, Don, Dee, Esk, Firth of Tay and Tyne.

The Findhorn, Firth of Forth and Almond catchments remain at alert level.

Sepa said in the far north, south-east and south-west, there has been some improvement, citing the Wick, Helmsdale and Tweed catchments, though they still show “early warning” signs of scarcity.

Many of the areas in moderate scarcity have had less than 70% of their average rainfall since the start of the year.

Sepa said the time record of some of river flow stations spans almost 100 years.

Kenny Boag, head of environmental performance for Sepa, said: “We’ve had rain in some areas but not widespread recovery. Although there has been relief in the west, most of the east coast continues to experience water stress.

“Many catchments remain under significant pressure and the water environment is still in a vulnerable state.

“More rain is forecast over the next few days, but we need sustained rainfall in the right places over weeks, not just days, to make a real difference.

“We welcome the proactive steps taken by many abstractors, especially in areas of alert and moderate scarcity who have already been planning ahead and taking steps to use water efficiently.

“We urge them to continue to do that as we won’t wait until the situation reaches crisis point to act, and we don’t expect water users to either.

“We will continue to work closely with abstractors and sectors using water from our environment in the areas facing sustained water scarcity. Clear, early communication is being provided so no-one is caught off guard.

“We know how important water is to the Scottish economy, particularly sectors like farming, food and drink, and energy – and we also know that without a healthy water environment those sectors cannot thrive.”

Sepa continues to urge everyone from farmers and producers to industry and manufacturers to use water efficiently and manage the resource responsibly.

Advice is available on Sepa’s website, as well as from agency staff contacting abstractors with licences in areas at risk.