Dee river partnership seeks public feedback

“We want to hear people’s thoughts on our achievements so far – what we’ve done well, but also what we need to do better, or more of - to help us prioritise our actions for the next decade. What are your priorities for the lochs, burns and rivers of Deeside – this is your opportunity to shape their future”

The partnership tasked with looking after the River Dee catchment has published a summary of its achievements over the last 15 years and is seeking public comment on priorities for future projects. Established in 2003 with the support of the James Hutton Institute, the Dee Catchment Partnership is one of Scotland’s foremost catchment partnerships, representing 16 organisations that share the common aim of restoring habitat and water quality in the Dee catchment.

Manager for the Catchment Partnership and Freshwater Ecologist at the James Hutton Institute, Dr Susan Cooksley, explains: “For 15 years we’ve been working from a Catchment Management Plan at local, regional, national and international scales. The catchment partnership has invested thousands of hours of staff time and over £10 million in restoration projects in that time, so has a strong track record in catchment planning, project delivery and raising awareness. 

“It’s now time to create a new delivery plan for the Partnership to direct our projects for the next 5 years. We want to hear people’s thoughts on our achievements so far – what we’ve done well, but also what we need to do better, or more of - to help us prioritise our actions for the next decade. What are your priorities for the lochs, burns and rivers of Deeside – this is your opportunity to shape their future.”

Comprising seven short sections focusing on a range of topics including Water Quality, Habitats, and Recreation, the consultative summary launches on Monday 5^thJuly, with the opportunity to easily submit feedback on each section, until Friday 6^thAugust.

“The Dee catchment is internationally important for the unique landscapes and species it supports,’ continues Susan. “How we manage the land and water within it has a direct impact on the linked emergencies of climate and nature, both of which must be tackled as part of a successful green recovery for Deeside. We welcome input from anyone with an interest in the river – we all have a role in helping to conserve this special part of the world, and this is a chance to have your say, and be a part of shaping the decisions that will direct our future projects.” 

Partners within the group are Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeen Harbour Board, Cairngorms National Park Authority, Dee District Salmon Fishery Board, James Hutton Institute, NatureScot, NFU Scotland, River Dee Trust, Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Scottish Forestry, Scottish Government, Scottish Land and Estates, Scotland’s Rural College and Scottish Water.