by Stuart Brabbs | Jul 30, 2014 | General
SEPA called me today to let me know that their ecologists had taken samples from both the Girvan and Stinchar following the mortalities that we have reported this week. Water samples were taken and results are yet to be available from them however invertebrate samples...
by Stuart Brabbs | Jul 29, 2014 | Invasives
Whilst following the Coyle upstream, we eventually arrived at the Kerse Burn where we discovered a relatively new infestation of Himalayan balsam, The plant densities found indicate that this outbreak is relatively new, possibly in it’s second or third year....
by Stuart Brabbs | Jul 28, 2014 | Conservation, fishing, General
I arranged to meet the Fish Health Inspector at the Girvan today and then go on to the Stinchar. As he was coming from Aberdeen, we attempted to catch 5 dying fish for him to sample to determine whether or not these fish mortalities were as a result of natural stress...
by Stuart Brabbs | Jul 26, 2014 | Conservation, fishing, General
We are facing a catastrophe on two Ayrshire rivers at the moment and there’s nothing we can do about it. The Stinchar and the Girvan are both affected by extremely high water temperatures of around 23ºC, and fish are dying in the lower reaches. The Kirkhill beat...
by Stuart Brabbs | Jul 24, 2014 | Conservation, General
Although there hasn’t been much to report recently, that doesn’t mean things have ground to a halt. Yesterday the contractors poured a huge mortar slab which was setting up nicely today. The base to the fish pass extension was poured last week and today,...
by Stuart Brabbs | Jul 24, 2014 | Electrofishing, General
Following our visit yesterday where we discovered a slurry pollution situation at a farm in the Barlewan catchment, I am pleased to report that the landowners have taken our concerns on board and cleaned up the affected area. I am grateful to them for their prompt...