The River Doon District Salmon Fishery Board and Police Scotland have combined forces in a new initiative – the River Doon River Watch Scheme – to combat illegal salmon poaching and other wildlife crime.  The River Doon is home not only to the magnificent wild Atlantic Salmon, but also the rare Freshwater Mussel, bird species such as Kingfishers and Dippers, and a reviving Otter population.  Our beautiful river is a treasure to be valued by all who live by and enjoy its wonderful wildlife.

In recent years the anglers on the Doon have made a significant contribution to securing future stocks of wild salmon by releasing over 95% of all reported rod-caught salmon back to the river to continue their journey to the spawning grounds.

However, unfortunately illegal poaching continues to pose a threat to these vulnerable salmon stocks.

The River Doon River Watch Scheme aims to enable not just anglers, but all who care about preserving the Salmon for future generations, a way to report any suspicious activity.

Iain K Clark, Clerk to the River Doon DSFB said:

“As part of its role in managing the protection, enhancement and conservation of Atlantic Salmon, the Board have appointed a River Patrol Coordinator to patrol the River Doon and its tributaries, and a River Watch Coordinator, who will coordinate all reports received through a new confidential 24 hour hotline number and dedicated e-mail address established by the Board.  Any suspicious activity reported will be shared with Police Scotland, who will respond. The Board hopes that all communities in the Doon Valley will support this new initiative.”  

As Wildlife Crime Officer, PC Steven Prendergast, emphasises, combatting wildlife crime is a key priority for Police Scotland.

All of us are potential River Watchers.