The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has issued a “ significant scarcity ” alert for the Ythan and North Fife catchments, marking the highest level of water scarcity in these areas. River levels have reached a “critical” point, leading Sepa to impose restrictions on the amount of water that can be taken from the environment.
This alert follows what has been the driest spring since 1964, coupled with a summer filled with long stretches of hot and dry weather. Sepa has written to all affected licence holders, informing them of the new restrictions now in place.
While these restrictions are temporary, Sepa has stressed their importance in protecting the environment, wildlife, and communities that rely on healthy rivers. The restrictions will be lifted as soon as conditions im