FIFE AND KINROSS FWAG

RIVER EDEN CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT PROJECT UPDATE

Following the launch of the River Eden Project approximately 18 months ago FWAG (Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group) have been extremely busy keeping up with farmer demand. A successful presentation the following November in Freuchie led to keen interest and enthusiasm amongst the farming community. This led to an extremely successful year with the project, which aims to improve water quality and wildlife throughout the catchment. Achievements in the last year include:

A total of 24 farms visited, each receiving a FWAG Landwise Report and Water Management Guide highlighting good practice management.

4km of watercourses protected. A further 700m of riverbank have been earmarked for fencing in order to exclude livestock.
8 Alternative watering facilities located.

5 Nutrient Budgets completed.
2 Otter Holts constructed with a further one identified for this summer.
340 Native Trees Planted. These have extended an existing woodland area to create a riparian woodland. A further 0.95ha of trees has been earmarked to help bank stabilisation (approx 200-300 trees).

The fantastic news is that otter footprints have been spotted outside one of the holts. If nothing else these mammals are certainly taking an interest, and hopefully they will decide to take residence this winter. Watch this space!

The project has been so successful that additional funding is currently being sought to allow FWAG to continue offering grant aid and advice for a further three years. In the short term, Scottish Water have offered their support for the project and have thus become the fourth sponsor along with St Andrews University, Scottish Natural Heritage and Fife Council.

Shirley Macgowan, Farm Conservation Adviser, Fife and Kinross FWAG, Elmwood House, Carslogie Road, Cupar, Fife KY15 4JB, Tel/Fax: 01334 656546