In 2016 and 2017, Ayrshire Rivers Trust stocked trout sourced from the Lugar into the Dippol Burn near Auchinleck. The original trout were lost around 40 years ago through a pollution incident and with 50′ falls downstream, the burn couldn’t repopulate naturally.
Helen at the end of a tape measure as site data are recorded.
ART did this under license from MSS and translocated a number of parr and adult trout to kick start the recovery process. All trout were sourced locally from the Lugar and were natural stock. ‘Auchinleck Decides’ supported this project as did Auchinleck Angling Association. We are pleased to report that their assessments this year (today) found juvenile trout and adults surviving and doing well. The burn is a rich environment with plenty of excellent habitat and good feeding. Through time, the population should develop and increase and so long as pollution is kept in check, they will thrive.
The trout captured today have been scale samples and fin clipped to allow identification if recaptured during future surveys
An adult trout that was introduced and spawned last year. It is obviously doing rather well and was in great condition. Damage associated with spawning behaviour can be seen on the anal fin
We have more assessments planned for next week along with a section of green bank engineering to stop erosion taking place but after that, the recovery will be allowed to continue naturally without further intervention. Periodic assessment will continue and we will keep these pages updated of progress from time to time.
Today’s results were good news that is encouraging to all the staff.
The only fish ART found in pre 2016 surveys included pollution tolerant species including sticklebacks, minnows and stone loach
A great piece of work. I know you are probably snowed under but have you ever had a look at the Glazert Burn outside Kilmaurs. It used to hold a fantastic stock of trout and I also have seen salmon up beyond Bloak bridge, The last time I was out there the water looks dead. I know there has been effluent from farms going into it for years. I have seen and reported fish kills due to this over the years, Please try and do something for this great wee burn.
We had a look near Haysmuir this year on the Glazert but found very few trout only. It is in very poor condition and we need SEPA to take firm action against those that cause the enrichment otherwise I’m afraid it wil never be restored to a health burn. Thanks for your interest and we do have this on our radar.