Dumfries and galloway river levels begin to recover as dry spell ends

THE ANNAN, NITH, DEE AND CREE CATCHMENT AREAS HAVE BEEN DOWNGRADED FROM 'MODERATE SCARCITY' TO 'ALERT' LEVEL. 13:01, 30 May 2025 Rivers levels in Dumfries and Galloway

are beginning to recover after rain finally arrived in the region. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has downgraded the Annan, Nith, Dee and Cree catchment areas from “moderate

scarcity” to “alert” level after the warm, dry spell came to an end. However, the recovery may only be temporary and, even with recent rain, groundwater remains low in many places. READ

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SEPA’s head of environmental performance, Kenny Boag, said: “We’ve had rain in some areas but not widespread recovery. There has been some relief in parts of the west, for many river

catchments the long-term deficit remains. "It’s a complex picture, and while we welcome signs of recovery in some areas, most of the east coast continues to experience water stress.

“Many catchments remain under significant pressure and the water environment is still in a vulnerable state. More rain is forecast over the next few days, but we need sustained rainfall in

the right places over weeks, not just days, to make a real difference. Article continues below “SEPA continue to work closely with abstractors and sectors using water from our environment in

the areas facing sustained water scarcity. Clear, early communication is being provided so no one is caught off guard. "We know how important water is to the Scottish economy,

particularly sectors like farming, food and drink, and energy - but we also know that without a healthy water environment those sectors cannot thrive. “Balancing economic and environmental

needs is at the heart of our role as a regulator. If restrictions are put in place, they will be proportionate and in place for a short time as possible. "But we will act where

necessary to protect the water environment because it underpins Scotland’s economy, communities and way of life.” Click here for more news and sport from Dumfries and Galloway. SEPA is

continuing to ask farmers, producers and manufacturers to continue using water efficiently and manage this shared resource responsibly. Article continues below Advice is available on SEPA’s

website, as well as from SEPA staff contacting abstractors with licences in areas at risk.