Blairgowrie, Rattray & District
Angling Association
Notice to Members
The following message has been
received from Jerry Saunders, Tay Rivers Trust.
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"Salmon smolts have reached
Blairgowrie, along with adult fish making their way upstream to
spawning grounds. Recent conditions with cold, clean water in
the Ericht have facilitated salmon migration without issue thus
far.
Adult salmon are responding to
the recent high atmospheric pressure by moving swiftly through
the catchment area. However, with continued high pressure and no
significant rainfall anticipated, water levels are starting to
decline, which could introduce challenges for salmon migration
in the coming days and weeks.
-
Red-Light Alerts:
I am monitoring river flow daily, and Red-light alerts will be
issued as necessary. During these periods of risk, I will
consult with the CAR licence operators in an effort to manage
flows prioritising salmon welfare.
-
Risk Mitigation Measures:
The gates to the Lade are in a low position optimising flow over
the weirs, and the spenders remain closed. There is sufficient
space for smolts to access the lade safely, which they may
utilise as a bypass when upper weir flow is low. Impoundments in
the Lade have been removed to enable unobstructed passage, and
the hydro turbine bypass is programmed to automatically flush
twice daily at optimal times.
Although the fish ladder remains unfit for purpose, the
placement of boulders below is intended to facilitate easier
access for fish.
Angling
For those with angling interests
please advise anglers to avoid catching smolts by moving away
from areas where smolts are shoaling during daylight and by
changing angling method.
I sincerely appreciate the
cooperation and understanding shown by CAR licence holders.
Their support has been essential to implementing these measures.
Jerry Saunders, Tay Rivers Trust
"
