Nominations open for new salmon conservation award
Rod catches on Scottish rivers in 2023 were the lowest to date.
A new conservation award for wild salmon has been launched in Scotland, as the species faces unprecedented challenges around the globe.
The Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) Fishing Group has launched the SGA Wild Salmon Conservation Award after Atlantic salmon were classified as endangered in the UK last winter (News, 10 January). The trophy will be presented for the first time at Moy Country Fair on 2 August. But there is no time to waste, as the entries close on Friday (26 July).
Last year’s rod catches on Scottish rivers were the lowest on record, so individuals taking action to restore habitats, flows or spawning grounds for salmon could be prime candidates for recognition. Similarly, those who tackle invasive species, manage and monitor predation levels, help to boost insect life or even those helping to evolve stocking best practice will all be considered for the award.
Bill Drew, of the SGA Fishing Group, said the species requires actionon many levels.
“There are great organisations looking at issues impacting salmon at sea. This award, however, is for those taking local actions, doing the small joined-up things on our own rivers, that can make a real difference.”
Your nominations can be emailed to info@scottishgamekeepers.co.uk by 26 July
