NESS DISTRICT SALMON FISHERY BOARD Annual Report Including Accounts to Year Ending 15 May

Transcription

1 NESS DISTRICT SALMON FISHERY BOARD 2018 Annual Report Including Accounts to Year Ending 15 May

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3 Contents Contents... 1 Acronyms and Abbreviations... 1 Foreword... 1 About Us... 2 Our Team... 3 The Ness System... 4 What We Do... 6 Key 2018 Operational Statistics... 7 Latest Catch Statistics... 8 Latest Fish Counter Data Fisheries Monitoring Fisheries Management Conservation Regulations Fisheries Enforcement Fisheries Development Compliance with Good Governance Obligations Key Priorities for the Forthcoming Year Financial Summary i

4 Acronyms and Abbreviations ASCT AST BKD CL CMS DSFB DYW ERM FMP FMS GRTS HPAW HSMI IAC IFM INNPS IPNV MH MS MSS MSW NBFT NEPS PAW PD RLI SAC SANDS SEPA SFCC SG SGPV SISI SNH SNPs SSE SSSI THC TSA UHI Atlantic Salmon Conservation Trust Atlantic Salmon Trust Bacterial Kidney Disease Conservation Limit Cardiomyopathy Syndrome District Salmon Fishery Board Developing the Young Workforce Enteric Red Mouth Fisheries Management Plan Fisheries Management Scotland Generalised Random Tessellation Stratified Highland Partnership Against Wildlife Crime Heart and Skeletal Muscle Inflammation Inverness Angling Club Institute of Fisheries Management Invasive Non-Native Plant Species Infectious pancreatic necrosis virus Marine Harvest Marine Scotland Marine Scotland Science Multi Sea Winter Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust National Electrofishing Programme for Scotland Partnership Against Wildlife Crime Pancreas Disease Rivers and Lochs Institute Special Area of Conservation Scottish Angling National Development Strategy Scottish Environment Protection Agency Scottish Fisheries Co-ordination Centre Scottish Government Salmon Gill Poxvirus Scottish Invasive Species Initiative Scottish Natural Heritage Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Scottish and Southern Energy Site of Special Scientific Interest The Highland Council Trypticase Soy Agar University of the Highlands and Islands ii

5 Foreword CHAIRMAN The 2018 season has been a difficult one for salmon rivers throughout Scotland. Low water and high river temperatures have blighted most of our rivers and we have been fortunate that at least in the River Ness itself, fed by the largest volume of water in Scotland, fish have still found the desire to enter our system. As a result, anglers from all over Scotland, and beyond, have also found their way to the Ness. We are fortunate to have a river that, even in the worst of times, can still provide good sport. If the weather experts are right, the exceptional weather experienced this year may not be so exceptional in years to come. Another burden for our salmon to face, so it is with some satisfaction that the work our team are doing to protect and develop our system is yielding benefits. For this coming year our system has been given a Grade 1 conservation classification, but this must not make us complacent. The challenges for our salmon remain, we must continue to protect them. Once again, our thanks go to Chris Conroy and his Team. We are lucky to have them. Michael Martin OBE Chairman RIVER DIRECTOR This was a challenging year for fishery interests on the Ness system. A cold and dry spring period, compounded by a major Hydro outage at Garry Dam, was followed by an exceptionally warm and dry summer. The provisional total of 866 rod caught salmon was below the five-year average (974 fish) and six per cent down on the previous year. That said, the Ness district performed better than many other Scottish river systems, in part due to relatively good grilse catches (432 fish) and the constant supply of cooler water from Loch Ness. Multi sea winter salmon (MSW) catches were however a concern, with the 434 reported fish being the lowest on record. Anglers should be commended for achieving a 92 per cent release rate (100 per cent to the end on June), but is important that we continue to practice restraint going forward. Our electrofishing survey results suggest that the Ness system is producing improving numbers of juvenile salmon and the highest Grade 1 conservation status has been proposed by the Scottish Government for the 2019 season. This suggests that there are currently enough spawners to maintain the basic sustainability of the stock, however the number of returning adults (and subsequently catches) remain in decline due to poor marine survival. As you will hopefully see from this report, we have been working hard with limited resources to identify and address the key pressures affecting our salmon populations. This has involved working with partners and applying the latest scientific techniques to monitor stocks and to maximise the escapement of wild salmon smolts from the Ness system. Chris Conroy River Director 1 of 66

6 About Us The Ness District Salmon Fishery Board (Ness DSFB) is a statutory body responsible for the protection and enhancement of salmon and sea trout fisheries in the Ness district. It was constituted under the 1862 and 1868 salmon fisheries legislation, subsequently amended in the Salmon Act 1986 and the Salmon Conservation (Scotland) Act 2001 and more recently amalgamated under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act Map showing the extent of the Ness District and the main rivers and lochs therein Salmon fishing rights in Scotland are private heritable titles that are registered separately from land and can be bought and sold like any other property. The district boards finance their work by levying a rate on the salmon fishery owners in the district. The 2003 Act states that a district board shall have the power to impose an assessment, to be known as the fishery assessment, on each salmon fishery in their district. The fishery assessment is assessed at such uniform rate as is determined for all fisheries in the district by the board and shall be levied according to the valuation of a fishery as entered onto the valuation roll. Elected representatives of those salmon fishery owners provide the core of the membership of the board. Since 1986, the boards are required also to include representatives of salmon anglers and salmon netsmen in the district. A further revision to the constitution of the boards was made in 1999 to allow for even wider representation on the boards by other parties who may have an interest in salmon stocks or fisheries. A district salmon fishery board may do such acts, execute such works and incur such expenses as may appear expedient for: The protection or improvement of the fisheries within their district; The increase of salmon (and sea trout); or The stocking of the waters of the district with salmon (and sea trout). 2 of 66

7 Our Team BOARD MEMBERS Board members are elected triennially with the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003 specifying who may stand for election, how many may be elected and how many may represent the lower and upper proprietors. The latest elections took place in September Board members are all volunteers and are non-remunerated for their time and effort. The elected board members subsequently elect one of the members to be their chairman. The current board members are as follows: Representatives of Upper Proprietors Representatives of Lower Proprietors Co-optees of salmon Anglers and Tenant Netsmen Michael Martin OBE, Chairman (Mandate Dochfour, River Ness) David Sutherland (Proprietor Ness Castle, River Ness) Ryan Rutherford (Mandate Ness-side, River Ness) Angus McGruer (Proprietor, River Oich) Steven Gray (Mandate, River Moriston) Dr. Robert Morgan (Mandate, River Garry) Cllr Janet Campbell (Mandate Highland Council, River Ness) Alexander Patience (Netsmen) Graham Mackenzie (Ness District Anglers) Eric Craig (Inverness Angling Club) Neil Cameron (Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust) Although not a legal requirement, the Ness DSFB invites further representation onto the board in a non-voting capacity. Non-voting Attendees Dr. Alastair Stephen (Scottish and Southern Energy) Kenneth Knott (Forestry Commission Scotland) Ben Leyshon (Scottish Natural Heritage) Dr. Melanie Smith (UHI Inverness College) Andrew Steel (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) BOARD STAFF The board employs a number of full and part time staff responsible for the day to day management and delivery of its core duties and responsibilities: River Director/Clerk to the Board Head Water Bailiff Part-time Secretary to the Board Chris Conroy John MacColl April Conroy Voluntary Water Bailiffs Graham Mackenzie Gordon Armstrong Ryan Rutherford Fishery Trust Biologists Dr. Diego del Villar Chris Daphne 3 of 66

8 The Ness System The Ness catchment is the largest in the North Highlands and drains 2,103 square kilometres of land. The upper reaches extend almost to the west coast, close to Loch Hourn and Loch Nevis. The land drains east and north through the Great Glen before entering the sea in the Moray Firth at Inverness. For management purposes the district can be sub-divided into seven key management units. Ness System Fishery Management Units Each of these management units is described in further detail below: Ness Coastal - Inverness Firth and smaller coastal burns, particularly important for sea trout but also salmon; River Ness The temperature of the main River Ness is kept artificially high by Loch Ness, so it has no temperature barrier. This unit also incorporates the key tributaries of the main river, including the Holm Burn and Allt na Skiach Burn; Loch Ness and Small Tributaries The famous loch extends to 37km with smaller tributaries, the mouths of which are important spawning areas for salmon, trout and Arctic charr; Rivers Enrick and Coiltie Flowing into Urquhart Bay and supporting one of only a few alluvial woods remaining in the United Kingdom, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Also thought to be important spawning areas for summer and autumn salmon and grilse; River Moriston Designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for freshwater pearl mussel and Atlantic salmon. It supports an important spring salmon fishery and is heavily impacted by large scale hydro-electric schemes; 4 of 66

9 Rivers Garry and Oich The River Oich runs parallel to the Caledonian Canal, with extensive modifications being made to its course during the construction of the canal. The two rivers are separated by Loch Oich. Both the Garry and Oich support important spring salmon fisheries and are heavily impacted by large scale hydro-electric schemes; and Rivers Tarff, Foyers and Farigaig All support salmon populations to a greater or lesser degree and form important juvenile and nursery areas. They are, however, less important in terms of angling. The Tarff and Foyers are impacted by hydro-electric schemes. Loch End at Loch Ness in November 2018 In addition to the above, the Caledonian Canal intersects the Ness system at various points. The canal runs some 60 miles (97 km) from north-east to south-west. Only one third of the entire length is man-made, the rest being formed by Loch Dochfour, Loch Ness, Loch Oich and Loch Lochy (in the neighbouring catchment). 5 of 66

10 What We Do FISHERIES MONITORING The Ness DSFB works in close partnership with the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust (NBFT) and others to gain a detailed and up to date understanding of the status of salmon and sea trout populations within the district. This allows us to make an informed assessment of the potential impacts of development proposals, assess applications for scientific and other exemptions to the 2003 Act and to inform our fisheries management activities. Fisheries Science & Monitoring Gaining a detailed and up to date understanding of the status of fish stocks and habitats FISHERIES MANAGEMENT The production of juvenile salmon and sea trout in a river system is limited by the availability of good quality spawning and nursery habitat. The principle aim of our fisheries management activities is to maximise the natural production of salmon and sea trout in the Ness system through the protection and enhancement of spawning success and juvenile survival. We work with a wide range of partners to achieve these aims and objectives. Fisheries Management Carrying out informed practical actions to address problems identified by the science & monitoring FISHERIES ENFORCEMENT The Ness DSFB employs a team of highly experienced and Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM) Certified water bailiffs responsible for the enforcement of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act Our water bailiffs carry out regular patrols of the catchment throughout the year. They work closely with Police Scotland and officers from other law enforcement agencies. Primary Objective Maximising natural production through the protection and enhancement of spawning success and juvenile survival FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT Fishing effort on the Ness system has been in decline for a number of years. The fewer the rods fishing the lower the annual catch. This has a knock on effect of further discouraging anglers from fishing, i.e. a vicious circle. It is vitally important that measures are taken to break the circle and encourage more rods on the river, both in the short and longer term. Fisheries Enforcement Preventing the illegal exploitation of fish 6 of 66

11 Key 2018 Operational Statistics FISHERIES MONITORING FISHERIES MANAGEMENT FISHERIES ENFORCEMENT FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT Juvenile Salmonid Surveys The NBFT and Ness DSFB completed a total of 38 electro-fishing surveys across the Ness district in This included 25 National Electrofishing Programme sites, 10 Genetic Introgression Study sites and three River Ness Mainstem sites. Other Spawning observations and drone surveys; and The Ness DSFB and NBFT participated in Marine Scotland Science s Moray Firth Adult Salmon Tracking Project. Improving Access and/or Escapement Identifying and Mitigating Problems Monitoring, control and management of Predators Managing the exploitation of returning adults The SSE Garry Screens Project commenced; and A number of spawning burns were cleared of debris in the spring and autumn periods to facilitate the escapement of smolts and upstream migration of adult fish. Two pre-planned fish rescues carried out at the Inverness Retail Park ; and The Ness DSFB assisted with a major week-long salmon smolt rescue at Aigas and Kilmorack Dams on the neighbouring River Beauly. Continued participation in the Moray Firth Seal and Saw Bill Management groups; and Successful seal and bird licence applications made in 2017/2018 and 2018/19. The Ness DSFB engaged with the Scottish Government with regards to the 2018 conservation regulations. From 1 t July mandatory catch and release remained in place on the Moriston - but the rest of the Ness district was uplifted to Grade 2 status, allowing a limited number of salmon to be retained. Provisional catch returns indicate an overall release rate of 92 per cent for the 2018 season (100 per cent for the spring period. Consultations The Ness DSFB commented on four transport proposals, one aquaculture proposals, one marine windfarm proposals, one micro hydro schemes, two large scale hydro consultations, one flood scheme, three water treatment works proposals, one electricity grid related proposal, two marine licence proposals, one navigation proposal, three national strategies and three conservation regulation proposals; and The board also consented applications for three fish removals and two fish introductions in consultation with Marine Scotland. Coastal Patrols Over 32 coastal foot patrols completed throughout the year, with 12 people spoken to fishing for sea trout without permission. Inshore Patrols Individuals found fishing without permission or using illegal methods: 48 individuals on the River Ness up to Loch Dochfour; Six individuals fishing from the shores of Loch Ness; Eight individuals from boats on Loch Ness and Loch Dochfour; Three people fishing illegally on the River Enrick; 18 individuals on the River Moriston; Eight individuals on the River Oich and 16 on the River Garry; and To date, five people fishing outside the fishing seasons. Illegal Instruments None Court Cases Five individuals charged for incidents on the River Beauly; and One individual was given 80 hours community service for a non-salmon related wildlife offence detected by Ness water bailiffs in 2017, with two further cases dropped. Promoting Angling on the River Ness The board has a webpage ( Facebook page with 11,215 followers, Twitter account with 2,050 followers and Instagram account with 1,343 followers. These are used to promote the Ness system as a whole. Electrofishing demonstration for the Inverness Angling Club Ladies Day ; The NBFT delivered classroom visits, field trips and/or career talks at five local schools (Inches Primary, Farr Primary, Charlston Academy, Culloden Academy and Millburn Academy). 7 of 66

12 Latest Catch Statistics Catch returns are the main indicator of adult run size available for the Ness system. Catch statistics are collected annually by Marine Scotland Science (MSS). DSFBs are also able to collect data directly from proprietors twice per year. The size of the run can be used as a measure of its status by comparing the annual run against a long-term average. The data used throughout this section are Crown copyright, used with the permission of MSS, who are not responsible for interpretation of these data by third parties FISHING CONDITIONS The 2018 salmon fishing season was challenging for all fishery interests on the Ness system and across Scotland as a whole. The spring period was particularly dry and cold, with fish tending to stay in Loch Ness rather than move into the Rivers Moriston, Oich and Garry. This situation was compounded by a major SSE Hydro outage at Garry Dam. This meant that the River Garry was running at just above compensation flow, with very little water making its way to the River Oich. These conditions did however seem to suit the River Ness, where Dochfour Fishings reported one of its best spring catches in many years. As the season progressed, conditions got warmer and drier, leading to exceptionally lower river levels and extremely high-water temperatures. As water temperature increases, its capacity to hold oxygen decreases. SEPA took readings in July 2018 and recorded water temperatures of around 18 o C with a dissolve oxygen saturation of just 11 per cent (normal range from 95 to 100 percent). The warmer the water and the greater the supply of decomposable organic matter, the faster oxygen concentrations are reduced. Historically low water levels on the River Ness at Dochfour Weir, Laggan and the Holm Burn Under these conditions the returning adult salmon are likely to be stressed and lethargic, less likely to rise for a fly and take longer to recovery after capture. Temperatures exceeding about 16 C may be associated with reduced migration in estuaries and rivers, with very little migration above about 20 to 23 C 1. This seems to 1 Solomon, D.J & Lightfoot, G.W (2008) The thermal biology of brown trout and Atlantic salmon. Environment Agency Science Report. 8 of 66

13 No. Rod Caught Fish No. Rod Caught Fish (Salmon & Grilse) Annual Report have been the case on the River Ness this year, with evidence of fish moving in and out of the lower reaches of the river with the tide. LATEST NESS DISTRICT SALMON ROD CATCHES A provisional total of 866 salmon were reported in 2018, a decrease of six per cent on the 925-fish reported in the previous year and below both the five and ten-year averages (974 fish and 966 fish respectively). The decline specifically relates to a reduction in catches of multi sea winter (MSW) salmon, in part due to very poor fishing conditions in the spring period, but more concerningly a lack of summer and autumn fish. Grilse (one sea winter salmon) catches on the other hand saw an increase on the previous year. Total Ness district rod catches of salmon (salmon and grilse combined) (1952 to 2018) Year Salmon and Grilse 5 Year Average The 432 grilse reported in 2018 represents a 14 per cent increase on the previous year (373 fish in 2017), with catches above both the five and ten-year averages (400 fish and 409 fish respectively). The current five-year average remains significantly higher than at any period during the 1950 s, 1960 s, 1970 s, 1980 s and most of the 1990 s. It was only during the period from 2005 to 2013 when the five-year grilse catches were significantly higher than the current situation. This may have been the exception rather than the norm. Ness district grilse (one sea winter salmon) rod catches over the last 67 years (1952 to 2018) Year One-Sea-Winter Grilse 5 Year Average 9 of 66

14 No. Rod Caught Fish No. Rod Caught Fish Annual Report The 434 MSW salmon reported in 2018 represents a 21 per cent decrease on the previous year (552 fish in 2017), with catches below both the five and ten-year averages (575 fish and 556 fish respectively). We have seen a long-term decline in MSW salmon catches since a peak of 3,079 fish in 1964, with the 2018 catches being the lowest on record. This is a particularly concerning trend which we consider in further detail below. Ness district multi sea winter (MSW) salmon rod catches over the last 67 years (1952 to 2018) Year Multi-Sea-Winter Salmon 5 Year Average Splitting the MSW catches into their spring (January to May) and summer to autumn (June to October) components provides further detail regarding their current status. Spring, summer and autumn caught fish tend to belong to populations in the upper, middle and lower parts of a catchment respectively. The 184 spring salmon reported in 2018 represents a 21 per cent decrease on the previous year (242 fish in 2017), with catches below both the five and ten-year averages (255 fish and 216 fish respectively). This decrease seems to largely relate to the particularly poor fishing conditions in the upper system during the 2018 spring period, although fish counts at Garry and Dundreggan Dams were also down on the previous year. Over half (65 per cent) of the spring fish reported in 2018 were captured on either the River Ness or Loch Ness, rather than the Moriston, Oich or Garry as is usually the case. It is disappointing to see a decline in spring catches over the last two years, particularly given the significant improvements over the previous seven years. Ness district spring rod catches (January to May) over the last 67 years (1952 to 2018) Year Total 'Spring' Catch (January to end May) 5 Year Average 10 of 66

15 Number of Fish (Nairn, Ness, Beauly, and Conon) Number of Fish (Spey, Findhorn and Deveron) No. Rod Caught Fish Annual Report The 250 summer and autumn MSW salmon reported in 2018 represent a 19 per cent decrease on the previous year (310 fish in 2017), with catches below both the five and ten-year averages (319 fish and 340 fish respectively). The Ness district has experienced a long-term decline in summer/autumn MSW salmon catches and it was hoped that the situation had stabilised (with early signs of improvement in 2015 and 2016). Unfortunately, catches have continued to decline, with those for 2018 being the second lowest on record (only beaten by the 158 fish reported in 1955). The Ness DSFB is particularly concerned about the long-term decline of summer and autumn MSW salmon and its potential impact on the fishery. Ness district summer and autumn MSW salmon catches over the last 67 years (1952 to 2018) Year Summer and Autumn MSW Salmon 5 Year Average REGIONAL SALMON CATCHES Salmon rod catches on the Ness district compare favourably to neighbouring rivers in the Moray Firth. Fiveyear average catches on the Ness went into a steady decline after 2008, whereas those on neighbouring rivers remained relatively stable. Around 2012 they too went into a steep decline, where the catches in the Ness started to improve. As of 2016 (the most recent information available), the Ness was one of only two of these river systems showing a positive trend (together with the Deveron). Comparison of the five-year moving averages of annual rod catch in various salmon districts in the Moray Firth (1996 to 2016) Year 5 per. Mov. Avg. (Ness DIstrict) 5 per. Mov. Avg. (Beauly District) 5 per. Mov. Avg. (Conon District) 5 per. Mov. Avg. (Nairn District) 5 per. Mov. Avg. (Spey District) 5 per. Mov. Avg. (Findhorn District) 5 per. Mov. Avg. (Deveron District) 11 of 66

16 Total Recorded Ness Salmon Total Recorded National Salmon 2018 Annual Report 2017 NATIONAL (SCOTTISH) SALMON CATCH In terms of the national picture in Scotland, the total reported rod catches (retained and released) of wild salmon and grilse for 2017 was 49,444. This is a decrease over the return for 2016 (55,109), 80 per cent of the previous 5-year average and the fourth lowest on record (with 2018 expected to be the lowest on record). Comparison of the total annual Ness District rod catch (blue) with the National total (red) (1989 to 2017) Year Ness District Rod Catch National (Scottish) Rod Catch The proportion of the rod catch accounted for by catch and release is among the highest recorded. In 2017, 98 per cent of rod caught spring salmon (multi sea-winter fish taken before 1 May) were released, as were 90 per cent of the annual rod catch. A proportion of fish released from the rod fishery may be re-caught and hence inflate the catch statistics by appearing in the reported data more than once. Trends in rod catch varied among individual stock components. Reported catch of spring salmon has generally declined since records began and, although there is some indication that catch has stabilised in recent years, it remains at a historically low level. Overall catch of salmon and grilse in later months, on the other hand, generally increased up to 2010, after which it fell sharply over the next 4 years before recovering slightly in 2015 and 2016 only to fall again in LATEST NESS DISTRICT SALMON NET CATCHES Many of the original salmon netting stations in the Ness district were bought out by the Atlantic Salmon Conservation Trust (ASCT) in the 1980 s. These and a number of others are no longer operational, resulting in a significant reduction in the total numbers of net caught salmon reported in the district. The fixed engine or bag net fishery closed in Those remaining are net and cobble fisheries, which use a sweep net paid out from a boat and worked from the shore. The key remaining operational sweep netting stations in the Ness district are located at Rosemarkie, Longman and Alturlie Point. The Rosemarkie station ceased operating between 2007 and 2011 following a conservation agreement with the Ness DSFB. Fishing commenced once again in 2012 when 545 fish were reported. A conservation agreement reached by the Ness and Beauly DSFBs with the Rosemarkie and Longman net and cobble operators in 2013 meant that these stations remained closed for the entire season. As a result, the 12 of 66

17 No. Rod Caught Fish No. net caught fish Annual Report total Ness district net fishery catch reduced from 545 fish in 2012 to zero in This was the first time in at least 61 years that no fish were recorded by the net fishery. An extension to the voluntary agreement each year between 2014 and 2018 has meant that salmon have had free passage through these stations for six years in a row. Total Ness district net salmon catches (salmon and grilse combined) over the last 67 years (1952 to 2018) Year Net and Coble Fixed Engine Reported national catch and effort for the fixed engine and net and coble fisheries in 2017 were among the lowest recorded by either fishery since records began in For net and coble fisheries, both catch and effort were the lowest in the time series while for fixed engines, effort was also the lowest since records began, while catch was the second lowest. A total of 2,113 wild salmon and grilse was reported caught and retained in the net and coble fishery from a reported effort of 40 crew months. LATEST NESS DISTRICT SEA TROUT ROD CATCHES The Moray Firth once supported a prolific rod and line fishery for sea trout, with the total annual reported Ness district catch peaking at 3,540 fish in Total Ness district sea trout catches (adult and finnock combined) over the last 67 years (1952 to 2018) Year Sea Trout Series2 13 of 66

18 Reported catches have steadily decreased since that point, although it seems that there may have been significant under reporting of sea trout catches in the Ness district for some time. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the numbers of fish captured in the freshwater and coast areas of the Ness system during the 2017 season was significantly greater than the reported 123 fish. Similarly, the 21 fish reported in 2018 does not seem to give a true reflection of catches. This is particularly disappointing from a local fisheries management perspective, particularly as rod catches are the only current indicator of the status of sea trout populations in the Ness system. We would urge proprietors and anglers alike to record and report all sea trout. A fresh run sea trout migrating upstream through the River Ness in July 2018 CATCH SUMMARY The 2018 salmon fishing season was challenging in terms of exceptionally poor fishing conditions and an underlying decline in the number of returning adults (in particular the summer and autumn MSW component). Despite this, the Ness district as a whole seems to have faired somewhat better than many other river systems across Scotland. The current decline in salmon catches is not limited to the Ness district, with similar trends seen in rivers across Scotland. Furthermore, the results of our electro-fishing surveys indicate that the Ness system is producing relatively good numbers of juvenile salmon. The fact is that they are simply not returning from their ocean journey in the expected numbers, which points to a problem with marine survival. When considering the factors or pressures which may be affecting marine survival, it is important to consider that salmon occupy freshwater, estuarine and marine environments during their lifecycle. Factors influencing salmon mortality in these habitats do not operate independently and so changes in one could result in increased mortality in another. For example, higher river temperatures associated with climate change are thought to increase growth rates in juvenile salmon. This could result in younger smolts, an earlier migration to sea, with the fish less well adapted for surviving life in the marine environment. With management options in the ocean limited, the Ness DSFB aims to maximise the number of healthy wild salmon smolts going to sea from our rivers. The following sections of this report illustrate how we are working to identify and address those factors which may be limiting spawning success and juvenile survival in the Ness system, together with the practical management actions being taken to maximise smolt escapement. 14 of 66

19 Number of Fish Annual Report Latest Fish Counter Data Fish counter information is available from two sites within the Ness catchment, both of which are operated by Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE). One is located on the River Moriston (Dundreggan Dam) and the other on the River Garry (Invergarry Dam). Areas upstream of the two fish counters represent only a proportion of the total area within the Ness catchment accessible to migratory fish; therefore, these data should only be used for indicative purposes. A salmon passing through the counting flume in a Borland fish lift Salmon counts through Dundreggan Dam went into a steep decline from the mid-1970 s to the mid-1990 s. They steadily increased again over the next 34 years, with the five-year average salmon count peaking at a respectable 377 fish in 2015 (actual count of 404 fish). Catches have declined again since this point, with 262 fish passing through the counter in 2018 (the lowest count for nine years) and a five-year average of 327 fish. Number of Salmon Ascending Dundreggan Dam 1969 to Annual Counts 5 Year Average 15 of 66

20 Number of Fish Annual Report The salmon counts at Garry Dam have declined significantly over the last fifty years and are showing little sign of recovery. Historical annual counts of 600 to 800 salmon have reduced to a five-year average of just 70 fish. The total 2018 count (27 fish) was well below the five-year average, with the most recent electro-fishing surveys indicating that juvenile salmon densities in the Upper Garry system remain critically low. Number of Salmon Ascending Invergarry Dam 1956 to Annual Counts 5 Year Average Given the significant long-term decline in abundance of salmon, the Ness DSFB has come together with SSE and other partner organisations to deliver the Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project. This aims to restore a self-sustaining wild salmon population to the Upper River Garry as described in further detail in the Fisheries Management section of this report. A large adult salmon passing through the counting flume in Dundreggan Dam 16 of 66

21 Fisheries Monitoring The Ness DSFB, NBFT and others work together to gain a detailed and up to date understanding of the status of salmon and sea trout populations within the district. This information is essential in permitting an evidence based approach to fisheries management. NATIONAL ELECTROFISHING PROGRAMME FOR SCOTLAND (NEPS) NEPS was designed by scientists from Marine Scotland Science (MSS) and funded by the Scottish Government, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). The sampling is delivered locally by District Salmon Fishery Boards and fisheries trusts with the support of the Scottish Fisheries Coordination Centre (SFCC) and Fisheries Management Scotland (FMS). The overall aim of this partnership project is to develop a juvenile assessment method that can be used to determine the status of salmon populations each year. This will complement the Scottish Government s existing annual assessment of returning adult numbers used to inform the management of the killing of Atlantic salmon. The objectives of NEPS are to: Obtain a strategic, unbiased quantitative estimate of the number of salmon in Scotland s rivers; Work with the SFCC to develop a set of standard operating procedures to ensure consistent data collection and data entry standards; and Develop methods to scale electrofishing observations to catchment and regional scales. Marine Scotland describe NEPS as having been designed using a stratified, unequal probability, generalised random tessellation stratified (GRTS) sample. They have designed the programme to ensure that the sampling is approximately equally distributed over the area of interest, while maintaining randomness at smaller scales. National electrofishing Programme for Scotland (NEPS) sites in the Ness catchment 17 of 66

22 There are thirty samples in each region split across a three-panel design region (including 10 three run sites and 20 one run sites). MSS describe the panel design as optimising the sample for both spatial coverage across years and trend detection. Only rivers that can be sampled by wading and electrofishing are included in the design. Large rivers (e.g. the River Ness), very small rivers and lochs are excluded as are rivers above impassable barriers. Staff from the NBFT and Ness DSFB working in partnership to deliver 30 Ness NEPS sites Data from the first year of NEPS will be analysed by MSS and used to refine the network design process and develop a juvenile assessment tool for Atlantic salmon. Tissue samples taken from a sub-sample salmon parr captured at the three-run sites will allow for genetic structuring, with water samples taken at each site helping to characterise water chemistry and identify any diffuse pollution issues. The programme has given us the opportunity to survey new areas and produced some interesting preliminary results. For example, we were tasked with surveying three new sites above Cean-na-croc Heck on the River Morison. The heck (which is a fish trap) was constructed as part of a hydro scheme which became fully operational in 1962, cutting off access to headwater spawning. In 2006 a fish pass was constructed in the Heck, permitting access for salmon for the first time in 44 years. A recovery in the salmon populations above Ceanna-croc Heck was recorded in 2016, however the results of the NEPS surveys has indicated that salmon are present in higher densities and are much more widely distributed than previously known. 18 of 66

23 Density (Fish Per 100 m2) Density (Fish Per 100 m2) Density (Fish Per 100 m2) Density (Fish Per 100 m2) Density (Fish Per 100 m2) Density (Fish Per 100 m2) 2018 Annual Report RIVER NESS MAINSTEM ELECTROFISHING SURVEYS The NBFT and Ness DSFB teams worked in partnership to complete mainstem electrofishing surveys at three index monitoring sites on the River Ness during the 2018 season. Location of the River Ness mainstem electrofishing sites The results were extremely encouraging, with all sites producing salmon fry and parr densities well above the excellent classification (indicated by the green line in the figure below). Furthermore, the NBFT have analysed trends in juvenile salmonid (salmon and trout) densities in the River Ness mainstem using various statistical models. All indicate a trend for increasing densities of both salmon fry (SF) and salmon parr (SP). Results of the 2018 River Ness mainstem surveys (left), together with analysis of long-term trends (right) River Ness Holm Mills Fry Densities River Ness Holm Mills Parr Densities Year Year River Ness Black Stream Fry Densities River Ness Black Stream Parr Densities Year Year River Ness Dochfour Fry Densities River Ness Dochfour Parr Densities Year Year 19 of 66

24 UNDERWATER CAMERA OBSERVATIONS The Ness DSFB has pioneered the use of underwater camera technology within the fishery board and trust network. Our footage has featured in wildlife documentaries on national television and used as an educational tool to raise awareness of the salmon and to encourage more visiting anglers to the Ness system. It also has a number of practical fisheries management applications as illustrated below. Salmon Spawning Surveys Anecdotal evidence has suggested that there are two distinct Atlantic salmon spawning periods within the Ness district. Atlantic salmon spawning activity in the main River Ness (which discharges from Loch Ness) is believed to be significantly later than that in tributaries which flow into Loch Ness. The difference in spawning time is thought to relate to the effects of thermal capacity (water volume) from Loch Ness. Qualitative spawning observations were carried out at key index monitoring sites in the upper, middle and lower Ness district during the 2016/17 and 2017/18 salmon spawning periods. These aimed to examine whether the statutory close time and voluntary extension to the close time provide adequate protection to spawning fish across the Ness district. These observations were carried out using Gopro 1080HD underwater cameras mounted on purpose-built rigs, allowing the behaviour of the fish to be monitored on a regular basis. Female Atlantic salmon on a redd (or nest) in the River Enrick in November 2017 Salmon spawning activity in the upper Ness system (above Loch Ness) was observed as early as the 29 th October and continued through to the 22 nd November. In comparison, salmon spawning activity in the River Ness (below Loch Ness) was found to start as early as the 11 th December and continue through to the 28 th January. Furthermore, the spawning period in the lower system (49 days) was significantly more protracted that that in the upper system (25 days). A period of 18 days was observed between the end of spawning in the upper Ness system and start of spawning in the River Ness in the lower system. This suggests that the Ness system may have two distinct spawning periods. An MSS temperature logger was deployed in the River Ness in With an absence of temperature data for the upper Ness tributaries, MSS were kind enough to provide data for similar sites on the River Dee and the 20 of 66

25 06-Oct 08-Oct 10-Oct 12-Oct 14-Oct 16-Oct 18-Oct 20-Oct 22-Oct 24-Oct 26-Oct 28-Oct 30-Oct 01-Nov 03-Nov 05-Nov 07-Nov 09-Nov 11-Nov 13-Nov 15-Nov 17-Nov 19-Nov 21-Nov 23-Nov 25-Nov 27-Nov 29-Nov 01-Dec 03-Dec 05-Dec 07-Dec 09-Dec 11-Dec 13-Dec 15-Dec 17-Dec 19-Dec 21-Dec 23-Dec 25-Dec 27-Dec 29-Dec 31-Dec 02-Jan 04-Jan 06-Jan 08-Jan 10-Jan 12-Jan 14-Jan 16-Jan 18-Jan 20-Jan 22-Jan 24-Jan 26-Jan 28-Jan 30-Jan 01-Feb 03-Feb 05-Feb 07-Feb 09-Feb 11-Feb 13-Feb Temperature (oc) 2018 Annual Report River Spey as a point of comparison. It is assumed that these will have similar temperature profiles to rivers in the upper Ness system. Daily water temperature recorded at Ness Castle on the River Ness (blue) compared to the 2014 to 2018 averages for sites of a similar nature on the River Dee (orange) and River Spey (grey) (MSS Data) Ness (2017/18) Dee (2014 to 2018 average) Spey (2014 to 2018 average) Observed spawning activity upper Ness Spawning (above Loch Ness) Observed spawning activity lower Ness (below Loch Ness) The River Ness was found to have a different temperature profile to those on the River Dee and River Spey. The difference between the mean daily water temperature (2014 to 2018) for the Dee and that for the Ness was as high as 7.8 o C (for the 21 st November). The difference between the Spey and the Ness was found to be as high as 5.7 o C (for the 6 th December). In summary, evidence of spawning activity was observed in the River Ness for up to 14 days after the end of the statutory close time (up to the 28 th January). Although this falls within the voluntary extension to the close time (end of January), it is likely that pockets of sporadic spawning will occur into early February. This suggests that the current Ness district statutory close period (16 th October to 14 th January) and voluntary extension (up to the 31 st January) may not provide adequate protect spawning fish in the River Ness. Salmon spawning in the River Ness in January of 66

26 Salmon Migrations Strategically place cameras have allowed us to observed salmon smolts in the River Ness as late as mid-june as they migrate downstream towards the sea. Moving in small schools (up to 50 or more individuals) they exhibit increased downstream orientation. In the early stages of the migration the smolts drift passively under the cover of darkness, making them difficult to observe. As period of readiness in which they must enter the sea begins to close, the fish can be observed moving more actively during daylight hours. A typical salmon smolt captured in a fish trap on the River Garry The 2018 season was particularly warm and dry, leading to exceptionally low river levels and extremely highwater temperatures. Under these conditions returning adult salmon are stressed, lethargic and less likely to rise for a fly. With anglers reporting a lack of fish, our cameras were particularly useful in demonstrating that fresh run salmon and grilse continued to arrive in numbers. A fresh adult salmon passes a camera in the River Ness in July of 66

27 DRONE SURVEYS The use of a drone has allowed us to begin making year-to-year comparison of salmon spawning activity at key 'index' monitoring sites in the Ness system. The images below were taken at one of our index monitoring sites on the River Ness in February 2017 (top) and February 2018 (bottom). Areas of clean gravel resulting from the creation of 'redds' (or nests) in the river bed are marked with a red dot. Comparative salmon redd (or nest) counts at an index site on the River Ness (MadMacWolf Media) The overall distribution and number of redds between years at this site seems to be very similar. It should be noted that that larger redds may contain the nests of several females. Furthermore, a single female may deposit her eggs in a number of different nests. As such, the count is very much an approximation and the number of redds does not necessarily equate to the number of females. 23 of 66

28 MORAY FIRTH ADULT SALMON TRACKING PROJECT This was a partnership project between the Ness DSFB, Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust, Marine Scotland, University of Aberdeen and local salmon netting interests. Specific objectives were: A) To determine whether timing of movements through the tidal narrows is related to time of day or tide; B) To assess minimum survival rates of adult salmon passing through these areas; and C) To determine which rivers these fish return to. A gateway of acoustic receivers was positioned across the Firth at Chanonry Point and across the Souters in the Cromarty Firth. Moorings in each gateway array were also fitted with C-POD echolocation detectors and broad-band acoustic recorders to detect dolphin occurrence, foraging buzzes and other dolphin vocalisations. This will provide information on the interactions between salmon and dolphins. Single acoustic receivers were also positioned in the lower part of the Rivers Beauly, Ness, Nairn, Findhorn, Lossie and Spey. Ness DSFB and NBFT staff deploying receivers in the Ness and Beauly (left) with the netsmen catching adult salmon at Chanonry Point (right) Fish were captured by local net and coble salmon netsmen at Chanonry Point (with the kind permission of the Atlantic Salmon Conservation Trust) and subsequently acoustically tagged by Home Office Licenced biologists from the Scottish Government. This aimed to allow an assessment of the number of fish that survive to leave the Inverness Firth through the Chanonry narrows and the Souters. Thanks to the significant efforts of the netsmen, the target number of 109 grilse were successfully tagged and release between the 9 th and 25 th July Six more multi-sea-winter salmon up to 20 pounds in weight were released (these were deemed to be too large for the study) together with 30 sea trout up to six pounds in weight. The network of receivers is still to be downloaded and reported upon by Marine Scotland Science who were leading the project. We can however report a number of re-captures and sightings of tagged fish. The first was photographed by wildlife photographer David Jefferson as it was swallowed by a dolphin at Chanonry Point close to the netting site. A tagged fish was subsequently captured by an angler on the River Beauly, with two 24 of 66

29 tagged fish captured on the River Ness, one found in a moribund state the River Alness and a possible capture reported on the River Conon. We look forward to seeing the final results of the study when published by MSS. Images of some of the tagged fish observed or re-captured to date (Dolphin Photograph by David Jefferson) THE MISSING SALMON PROJECT Since the 1970s the number of salmon in the North Atlantic has dropped from 8 to 10 million to around 3 million. This is impacting on the communities of people and wildlife that depend on these fish to survive. At the moment we do not know where the bulk of this mortality is occurring, how many are dying at sea or if they are even failing to make it that far. The Atlantic Salmon Trust (AST), with the consensus and support of 40 local and national organisations, is developing a likely suspects framework for salmon. To date this has shown that one of the major gaps in our knowledge is how salmon move down rivers and their movement through our coastal waters. Whilst it is known that a large proportion of the fish die during this period (up to 70 per cent has been suggested) the reasons are not known. The aim of this project is to fill in the gaps in that knowledge so that we can work towards addressing the downward trend in salmon numbers. The AST s Missing Salmon Project aims to raise 1 million by the end of 2018 to fund what will be the largest acoustic tracking project for salmon in Europe. The project was launched at the Ness DSFB rotary screw trap on the River Garry in April 2018 and attracted significant media attention. 25 of 66

30 Dr Matt Newton from the AST and Nicola McAlley from STV News at the launch of the Missing Salmon Project at the Ness DSFB River Garry smolt trap The project aims to tag approximately 650 young salmon in 2019 as they migrate downstream from the headwaters of six rivers around the Moray Firth (including up to 100 fish from the River Garry). These tags send out a unique acoustic ping and allow for the progress of the fish to be tracked as they move downstream through the freshwater environment and out to sea. Once in the Moray Firth the fish will continue to be tracked as they move past up to three listening arrays, allowing for their movements and survival to be known for up to the first 100 km of their ocean journey. Rivers flowing into Moray Firth and outline positions of listening arrays (Atlantic Salmon Trust) This is a three-year project, with the first fish being tagged in spring The fish will then tracked until late July or until they have left the Moray Firth. The information will then be collated and published in the autumn of The aim is to disseminate the information to fishery managers as quickly as possible. On a local level, we hope that the findings of the project will help us to better understand the relative survival of smolts at various stages of their migration to sea (in the freshwater, estuarine and marine environments). This will in turn help us to identify the key reasons for mortality, prioritise the impact factors and develop plans to address any particular issues in the Ness district. The AST is on target to raise the 1.02 million required by autumn 2018 to facilitate the purchase of the equipment in time for deployment in spring If you would like to make a donation to the project then please visit 26 of 66

31 Fisheries Management The Ness DSFB and NBFT jointly published an updated Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) in This sets out priority actions identified as being required for the management of fish populations within the Ness district. It provides a framework for the protection and enhancement of such populations and to ensure that their exploitation is undertaken in a sustainable manner. The lifespan of this FMP is six years, commencing in August 2014 and ending in August 2019, during which time it has been regularly reviewed. A summary of the key management actions delivered this year is provided below. UPPER GARRY SALMON RESTORATION PROJECT Scottish & Southern Energy (SSE), Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust (NBFT), The Ness District Salmon Fishery Board (Ness DSFB), Marine Harvest (MH), Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and UHI Inverness College Rivers and Lochs Institute (RLI) have come together to collaborate on the delivery of a project to restore a self-sustaining wild salmon population to the Upper River Garry. The River Kingie in the Upper Garry system The abundance of salmon in the Upper River Garry has declined over the last 50 years and is showing little sign of recovery. Historical stocking undertaken as mitigation for loss of habitat following historical hydroelectric development, together with subsequent easing of fish passage, has proven to be unsuccessful. It is believed that the indigenous population may have been affected by none-native strains of salmon that may not be fully adapted to their environment. Initial baseline genetic monitoring has indicated that a remnant of the original native stock of salmon is still present. 27 of 66

32 In 2012 the RLI was commissioned by the Ness DSFB to carry out a scoping study for the development of a salmon stock restoration programme for the upper River Garry. Their recommendations included the implementation of carefully targeted, designed and linked enhancement initiatives, encompassing habitat improvement and stock rehabilitation through supportive breeding and supplementary stocking. The supportive breeding and supplementary stocking element of the project involves capture of a proportion of the River Garry salmon smolts as they migrate downstream towards the sea between April and May. These fish are then grown on to maturity in captivity, with their eggs stocked to areas accessible to salmon upstream of Garry Dam for a time limited period in an attempt to kick-start the population. Trapping and Tagging The most common and easiest approach to supportive breeding is to capture adult salmon brood stock just prior to spawning. Their eggs and milt are then fertilised and reared in a hatchery environment where survival rates are much higher than in the wild. This results in the ability to seed the system with a greater number of eggs and fry than would be produced naturally. With the number of adult salmon ascending through the counter in Garry Dam down to a five-year average of just 70 fish, it would be questionable to use these fish as brood stock, particularly given that they are managing to recruit naturally. This project instead opts to catch and retain a proportion of descending salmon smolts from the existing wild population by means of a rotary screw trap as they make their journey to the sea in spring. Trapping salmon smolts in the Lower River Garry The advantages of this approach are significant. The marine survival of smolts going to sea is poor (less than five per cent) so the vast majority of the naturally produced smolts leaving the upper Garry will never return as adults. By taking a small proportion and growing these on to maturity, will have minimal influence on the number of returning adult salmon. The time taken for the smolts to reach maturity in freshwater also allows time for the determination and use of the correct genetic stock of salmon. 28 of 66

33 Each fish is be anesthetised on removal from the trap and a Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) surgically implanted into its abdomen. This allows each individual fish to be identified at a later date. The fork length and weight of each fish is also recorded, with tissue and scale samples taken. The fish are then transported to a temporary freshwater holding facility at Marine Harvest s Loch Garry Fish Farm. Processing Garry smolts after capture in the Rotary Screw Trap Once we have captured the annual target number of smolts, they are transferred Drimsallie Hatchery in Lochaber. Here the fish are weaned off their natural diet and on to a specialised pellet feed, before being grown on to maturity in outdoor freshwater tanks. The facility is acting as a live gene bank for the Garry. Adult Garry brood fish stock grown to maturity in freshwater after being captured as wild smolts 29 of 66

34 Genetic Profiling One of the major elements of the project is ensuring that only locally sourced native brood stock is used to restore the salmon population. A previous genetic survey of salmon populations in the Ness system identified the Garry sub-catchment population as having significant Norwegian genes present. The Norwegian markers are relatively easily identified, with tissues samples from all the smolts being screened to ensure that none of these fish are used in the restoration programme. Tissue samples from the Garry being analysed at the UHI Rivers and Lochs institute Genomics Laboratory The tissue samples are sent to the state-of-the-art Genomics laboratory at the UHI Inverness College Rivers and Lochs Institute where they are genetically profiled. Farm-wild SNPs (60 markers) are used to determine if any of the fish are of Norwegian origin (i.e. farm escapes or releases) as well as the probability that individuals have Norwegian ancestry. Furthermore, microsatellite screening (17 markers) considers individual genetic relatedness among individuals and population genetic structuring is used to assess whether individuals sampled are from one or multiple distinct breeding populations. The genetic analysis has identified four main groups or clusters of fish in both the 2016 and 2017 Garry smolt samples. These represent genetically distinct sub-populations of salmon. Clusters 1 and 4 (predominately green and red in the plot below) are very similar in nature and for the purposes of the 2016 hatchery crosses were treated as a single Cluster 1_4. Males and females from this cluster were only crossed individuals from this same cluster. The same was true for Clusters 2 and 3 which are distinct from each other. A genetic structure plot where the bars represent individual fish with the colours representing the proportion of that fish s genetic profile associated with each cluster Cluster 4 Cluster 3 Cluster 2 Cluster 1 30 of 66

35 Sorting and Stripping the Brood Fish The sorting process requires the fish to be lightly aestheticised to reduce the stress associated with handling. Each individual is then scanned with a PIT decoder, allowing its unique reference number to be established. This is crossed referenced with a spreadsheet containing the details of each fish, including the Cluster to which it belongs. The fish are also sexed and a note made as to whether they are mature (i.e. ready for stripping). This allows us to determine the numbers of useable fish in each group. Sorting the 2016 upper Garry broodstock at Drimsallie Hatchery on the 4 th December 2017 A total of 41 female and 38 male fish from the 2016 brood stock were found to be suitable for stripping. Genetic profiling allowed us to identify full siblings (i.e. brothers and sisters), enabling us to avoid the negative effects of inbreeding. A further 19 fish were found to be immature, two fish without an assigned group, two fish for which the PIT numbers could not be found and four intermediate fish which could not be used given the probability of them being of Norwegian origin. Mature female (top) and male (bottom) brood fish from the upper River Garry. 31 of 66

36 The 6 th December 2017 marked a major milestone in Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project, with the production of the very first fertilised eggs. A total of 23,300 eggs were produced from the 2016 broodfish. This was less than the estimated 50,000 eggs due to the fact that the average size of hen fish was smaller than expected. Stripping the male (top left) and female (top right) fish before fertilising the eggs (bottom right). Growth rates are much slower in the freshwater environment, meaning that on their first spawning the brood fish are much smaller and produce fewer eggs than if they had migrated to the marine environment. The fish have therefore been re-conditioned in the hatchery and will be stripped for a second time in winter 2018 when they have reached a larger size. 32 of 66

37 Heath Check A sample of the brood fish underwent a health check by a qualified fish vet from Marine Harvest prior to the eggs being planted out. This involved an internal and external examination of a subsample of the fish to look for parasites and signs of disease. The aim of the check was to prevent the introduction anything harmful into the wild during the stocking operation and it included the following key elements: General health check including external and internal examination; Tissue samples for histopathology; Kidney swabs for bacteriology; and Gills, hearts and kidneys for PCR analyses: samples to be tested for IPNV, piscirickettsia, BKD, HSMI, CMS, SGPV, PD and ERM. These diseases are present in farmed and wild Atlantic salmon, the first five are vertically transmitted (i.e. can be transferred from the parent fish to the eggs). Five random fish were sampled from the population. There were no external lesions, fin quality was good and they showed signs of slight emaciation, which would be expected after spawning. All sampled fish were examined internally, with findings considered to be within what would be considered normal in recently spawned fish. Marine Harvest Fish Vet carrying out a health check on a subsample of the Garry brood fish Multiple tissues were sampled fish for histopathological analysis. Results showed no significant findings. Kidney swabs were taken from all examined fish and plated onto TSA and cytophaga agar. Plates were incubated at 15 C for seven days, with no growth observed. Gills, hearts and kidneys from all examined fish were sampled in RNAlater for PCR analysis. The fish tested negative for all of the key disease agents. In summary, the examined fish were considered to be in good health, therefore the health status of their progeny was considered to be satisfactory. 33 of 66

38 Stocking (or planting ) Eggs The first eggs from the project were planted out in the upper reaches of the Garry system as eyed ova in April At this stage the eggs were relatively robust and easily transported. They were expected to hatch in the spring and subsequently swim-up in the wild. In this way they would begin live in their natural environment feeding on a natural diet, avoiding the potential negative effects of domestication associated with the hatchery environment. Board and Trust staff introducing eyed ova into the upper River Garry system Artificial salmon redds (or nests) were created by digging a hole in the bed of the river. Approximately 1,000 eggs were then carefully poured into each nest by way of a pipe. Stocking focused on areas of suitable habitat as identified by NBFT biologists. In this first year of stocking we introduced a total of 23,300 eggs across the River Kingie and Allt Choire a' Bhalachain. We hope to increase this to around 150,000 at the peak of the project, with stocking being carried out for a time limited period. Monitoring We recently completed an electrofishing survey on the Allt Choire Bhalachain, where a total of 5,000 'eyed ova' had been planted out. The results were really encouraging, with minimum salmon fry densities of 24.2 per 100 square metres. To put this this in perspective, the highest fry density previously recorded on this burn was 1.7 per 100 square metres, with juvenile salmon completely absent in three of four previous year s surveys. Furthermore, this was actually the highest salmon fry density recorded at any site in the upper Garry system. 34 of 66

39 Results of post stocking monitoring on the Allt Choire Bhalachain in the upper Garry catchment Next Steps The Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project brood fish are doing extremely well. At the last count we were holding 427 wild Garry broodfish at the Drimsallie Hatchery live gene bank. The numbers and current survival rates for each year class are presented below: Salmon (2016 broodfish) 92 surviving individuals of the original 237 fish, equating to a 39 per cent survival rate (note that these fish were stripped for the first-time last year, producing 23,500 eggs with five individuals sacrificed for a health check); Grilse (2017 broodfish) 153 surviving individuals of the original 291 fish, equating to a 53 per cent survival rate (note that these fish will stripped for the first time this year); and 35 of 66

40 Post smolts (2018 broodfish) 182 surviving individuals of the original 272 fish, equating to a 67 per cent survival rate. The 2017 fish will be stripped for the first time this winter, with the 2016 fish being stripped for the second and final time. Based on current number of survivors, we expect a total of approximately 212 fish to be ready for stripping this year (compared to only 27 fish passing naturally through the counter at Garry Dam) and would expect to produce between 100,000 and 150,000 eggs. This is significantly more than the 23,500 eggs planted out last year and could pose some logistical issues given the remote nature of the receiving waters. GARRY SCREENS PROJECT The Ness DSFB has been working with SSE to investigate the potential removal of smolt intake screens at the intake at Garry Dam. It is believed that smolt escapement through Garry Dam under the present situation may be sub-optimal, with fish having to swim against the current across the intake screens to find the fish pass. An alternative option may be to remove the screens and allow the smolts to pass directly through the turbines. In June 2018 APEM Ltd (contractors on behalf of SSE) completed live fish trials under Home Office licence. This involved removing the tailrace screens and replacing them with purpose-built catch nets. Fish were passed through intake tunnel and turbines, before being captured in the nets at the tailrace. This has provided information regarding transit times through the tunnel, any damage sustained and estimated survival rates. Catch nets on the tailrace screens at the Garry Power Station Tailrace The final report is yet to be published, however we are expecting a survival rate of approximately 80 per cent through the turbines. The team from APEM Ltd also carried out a quick trial to look at survival through the tailrace screens (rather than the turbines). As expected, survival was found to be low. This means that a new tailrace screen arrangement would need to be put in place before the removal of the intake screens. 36 of 66

41 PREDATOR MANAGEMENT Fish are removed from the Ness system by a suite of predators. For migratory fish species such as the salmon, predation can occur in both the freshwater and marine environments. Predation pressures may well be exacerbated by the presence of artificial structures such as dams, weirs and canals which create pinch points. Of particular concern is the affect of predation on migratory fish during stages of their life cycle after which density dependent compensation for losses has been exhausted e.g. smolts and returning adults. Piscivorous birds have received a lot of attention over the last couple of years. Significant numbers of goosanders, mergansers and cormorants frequent the Ness District. These birds predate on a wide range of fish species, with juvenile salmon and trout forming a major component of their diet. The relatively wide, shallow and clear waters of the River Ness below Loch Ness make ideal feeding grounds for these birds. A flock of goosanders diving for fish in the River Ness Results of stomach content analysis of birds shot on the Ness in 1995 revealed that the two goosanders examined contained a total of 15 juvenile salmon and nine trout (in addition to eel and stickleback). Carss and Marquiss (1998) 2 calculated intake rates for fish-eating birds on the neighbouring River Beauly. This suggested intake rates of 25 to 36 juvenile salmon per goosander per day, of which 19 were in excess of 89mm (likely to be salmon smolts given that the birds were shot in March and April). If these figures are applied to the Ness system, the presence of only 50 goosanders could equate to the removal of 1,268 juvenile salmon per day. Numbers of bird marked salmon smolts are routinely recorded during smolt trapping exercises carried out as part of the Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project. Only one per cent of the total catch in 2018 were found to be bird marked, down from four per cent in 2017, three per cent in 2016 and two percent in both 2014 and It should be noted that bird marked fish are those that had been attacked by birds, but subsequently managed to escape. It is highly likely that the proportion of fish actually killed and eaten by birds would be significantly higher than this. 2 Carss, D.N. & Marquiss, M. (1998). The numbers of salmon and brown trout consumed by fish-eating birds. pp in: Fish-eating Birds and Salmonids in Scotland (Eds. Marquiss, M., Carss, D.N., Armstrong, J.D. & Gardiner, R.). Report on fish-eating birds research ( ) to the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department, Edinburgh. 37 of 66

42 A bird damaged salmon smolt recorded on the River Garry in Spring 2018 Non-lethal methods have been used to great effect on the Ness system in terms of goosanders, however this has relied upon the ability to carry out limited shooting under licence from Scottish Natural Heritage to reinforce the effect on the birds. Scaring has proven to be much less effective in terms of cormorants, the numbers of which seem to be increasing on our rivers and lochs, particularly during the winter period. Cormorants have been observed hunting amongst groups of actively spawning salmon and trout. When considering the impact of bird predation on the overall survival of smolts in freshwater, it is important to note that pressures on smolts and post-smolt migration are both wide and varied. Freshwater influences include environmental factors (i.e. climate change), anthropogenic impacts (i.e. chemical pollution, barriers) together with the presence of range of other predators such as large brown trout, the impact of which are often overlooked and not fully understood. A large brown trout regurgitates two juvenile salmon after being caught by an angler on the River Ness 38 of 66

43 CONTROL OF INVASIVE NON-NATIVE SPECIES The Scottish Invasive Species Initiative (SISI) is a four-year partnership project which aims to work with local organisations and volunteers to control invasive non-native species along riversides in Northern Scotland, for the benefit of our native wildlife and communities. SISI is led by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, SNH and by in-kind support from project partners and volunteers. Invasive non-native species (INNS) are having a significant negative impact on our freshwater and riparian (riverside) environments, being responsible for the decline of native species and causing effects like bank erosion. SISI aims to halt and control the spread of invasive species, undertake habitat restoration and encourage the return of our native wildlife. The NBFT is a partner in the project and working to recruiting and train volunteers to enable control of invasive species at a local level. The project is funded for four years (until Oct 2021) after which time the aspiration is that local community control of INNS will continue, making this a sustainable long-term solution to invasive species control. Chris Daphne from the NBFT presenting at a Rivers and Invasive Species Information Evening at Cannich Village Hall in October 2018 The NBFT are recruiting volunteers and local groups who are passionate about our rivers and wildlife and want to get involved in conserving our freshwater environment and keeping it clear of Invasive INNS for the benefit of our native wildlife. No experience is necessary, in fact quite the opposite. The NBFT can support volunteers by providing training and qualifications such as outdoor first aid and pesticide application (spraying) and equipment to use to tackle invasive species. They also want to help volunteers grow and can support them through your John Muir Award, provide training in volunteer management skills, and support students in dissertations and projects. INNS Plant Control In the spring of 2018, the NBFT worked with local volunteers to treat Giant Hogweed along a four-kilometre length of river bank on the Little Mill Burn at Munlochy. A number of large stands in an area of approximately 500m 2 around the garage at Munlochy and at Knockbain Church were also treated. 39 of 66

44 Giant Hogweed on the Little Mill Burn before (left) and after (right) treatment In June 2018 the NBFT hosted a group from APEX Inverness. This is a not for profit organisation working with people of all ages and backgrounds who are the most disadvantaged and disengaged from society, and who are at risk of reoffending. They do so in a way which promotes desistance and enables them to re-engage and work towards a positive future. The group were given an electrofishing demonstration on the Holm Mills Lade, followed by a walkover survey to identify the various Invasive Species. The group removed six Skunk Cabbage Plants from the Lade. The NBFT hosted APEX again in August The volunteers were shown how to carry out habitat surveys, invertebrate surveys and electrofishing. They then assisted in the removal of Himalayan Balsam from approximately 500 metres of river bank. The APEX group pulling Himalayan Balsam on the banks of the Avoch Burn The Ness DSFB and NBFT worked together to treat a stand of Giant Hogweed on the banks of the River Ness in June 2018 following a report from a concerned member of the public. Approximately 30 individual plants were treated on the right bank (looking downstream) from the new West Link layby to the Bridge. 40 of 66

45 Treating Giant Hogweed on the banks of the River Ness Mink Control The American mink (Mustela vison) is a well-known invasive non-native species. It spread throughout the country following escapes from fur farms in the latter half of the 20 th century. Mink have had a devastating impact on our native wildlife. Ground nesting birds and water voles are particularly vulnerable to mink predation. Analysis of droppings (scats) indicate that fish also form a significant proportion of the mink s diet. Setting a trap on a mink monitoring raft on a small burn in the Ness district The aim of SISI is to control mink across the project area. This is done by using mink monitoring rafts to establish if mink are present in an area, then once detected mink are trapped and humanely despatched. A number of rafts have already been deployed across the Ness district and are being actively monitored. Mink control is progressing slowly, mainly due to a lack of volunteers. We have received a large number of sightings this year, especially around the River Ness and Caledonian Canal in Inverness. These areas will require special attention in the future. 41 of 66

46 Conservation Regulations In 2016 the Scottish Government introduced a package of measures to manage the conservation of salmon on an annual basis according to its conservation status. The conservation status of each stock is defined by the probability of the stock meeting its conservation limit (CL) over a five-year period. Rather than a simple pass or fail, stocks have been allocated to one of three grades, each with its own recommended management actions. This included the introduction of mandatory catch and release in areas where stocks were below their conservation limit ( Category 3 ). Scottish Government conservation status grades with associated management actions Category Probability meeting CL of Effectively CL met in: Advice 1 At least 80% 4 out of 5 years Exploitation is sustainable therefore no additional management action is currently required. This recognises the effectiveness of existing non-statutory local management interventions % 3 out of 5 years Management action is necessary to reduce exploitation; mandatory catch and release will not be required in the first instance, but this will be reviewed annually. 3 Less than 60% 2 out of 5 years Exploitation is unsustainable therefore management actions required to reduce exploitation for 1 year i.e. mandatory catch and release (all methods) CONSERVATION REGULATIONS The 2018 gradings for the Ness district remained the same as those in 2017, with Grade 3 status until the 30 th June to protect spring salmon and early running grilse destined for the Moriston (with a 0.5 per cent probability of meeting its egg requirement ). From 1 st July, it remained mandatory that all fish caught in the Moriston conservation area must be released. The River Ness, Loch Ness and the rest of the Ness district were uplifted to Grade 2 status (with a per cent probability of meeting its egg requirement ), allowing a limited number of fish to be caught and retained (this was accompanied by a 2018 Salmon Conservation Policy ). The Ness DSFB and NBFT responded that the Scottish Government s (SGs) proposed conservation assessment for the River Moriston SAC (0.5 per cent probability of meeting its egg requirement) did not reflect the situation on the ground. In our opinion, it was highly unlikely that the River Moriston could ever support an egg requirement of >5,000,000 eggs. The availability of suitable spawning habitat in the system is extremely patchy and concentrated in key areas, mainly above Dundreggan Dam. We also referred the Scottish Government to their quoted exploitation rates for the Ness (non-sac) which the SG has estimated as being between 12 and 15 per cent. We felt that this was a significant over estimation which did not reflect the true situation on the ground. The Ness DSFB and Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust have previously estimated exploitation rates at between 4 and 6 per cent across the system. 42 of 66

47 PROPOSED 2019 CONSERVATION REGULATIONS On the 25 th October 2018 the Scottish Government launched a 28-day consultation on the Conservation of Salmon Assessment for the 2019 fishing season (ending Friday 23 November 2018). This included significant changes to the proposed gradings for Ness system. Marine Scotland has assessed that the River Ness (non-sac) has a per cent probability of meeting its egg requirement over a five-year period, taking it to Grade 1 status (compared to a per cent probability and Grade 2 status in 2018). Furthermore, the River Moriston (SAC) has been assessed as having a per cent probability, also taking it to Grade 1 status (compared to just a 0.5 per cent probability and Grade 3 status in 2018). The Ness DSFB has challenged previous assessments for the River Moriston, however the proposed 2019 assessment is much more in line with our own calculations. The significant difference between the 2018 and 2019 assessments is the result of changes in the methodology used to assess conservation status in two areas (estimating the egg requirements for each river and estimating numbers of returning adults). These areas were updated partially in response to comments received through the public consultation and more widely through those from Fishery Boards and Trusts. NESS DSFB 2019 SALMON CONSERVATION POLICY Marine Scotland advise that for Grade 1 river systems exploitation is sustainable; therefore, no additional management action is required. It is important to note that this recognises the effectiveness of existing nonstatutory local management interventions, e.g. local Salmon Conservation Policies. The Scottish Government s Conservation of Salmon assessment sets an egg requirement for each river system and estimates whether or not this requirement is met. The egg requirement relates to the number of eggs required for every square metre wetted area of salmon habitat. This approach aims to maintain the basic sustainability of a stock, rather than maximising juvenile output. A sustainable Grade 1 salmon population may not therefore necessarily equate to a productive salmon fishery. Given an overall trend for decreasing catches in the Ness district, it is essential that the exploitation of salmon is limited to protect the long-term future of the fishery. Consequently, the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board s Salmon Conservation Policy for the 2019 season will contain the following key elements: Catch and release of all salmon caught before the 1 st July as a spring conservation measure; From 1 st July to the end of the season, all hen fish of any size and all cock fish over 8 pounds (69cm/27 inches) must be released to protect summer and autumn multi-sea-winter salmon; Only one cock fish weighing 8 pounds (69cm/27 inches) or less may be retained per angler per week (even if fishing multiple beats), with a maximum of two per season; All coloured and unseasonal fish must be released, providing protection for spring salmon throughout the season; and Anglers should not fish with worm anywhere in the district before the 1 st of July or after the 31 st August as fish captured using this method are more likely to be deeply hooked (reducing their chances of survival on release). It is hoped that these measures will allow us to protect and enhance the diversity of salmon populations in the Ness district, whilst permitting the sustainable exploitation of a limited number of fish and maximising the economic benefits of the fishery. The full 2019 Salmon Conservation Policy can be found below. 43 of 66

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50 CATCH AND RELEASE BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE It is important that fish are handled correctly. By following the advice below, you will give them the best chance of going on to spawn successfully: Use pinched or barbless hooks to reduce unhooking time. Using our Salmon Length/Weight Estimator tape will help to reduce handling Limit the duration of the fight, especially during warm low water periods. Using a stronger leader enables an angler to reel in the fish more rapidly. If tailing a salmon, never beach or drag it onto the bank or exposed gravel bar. After firmly grasping the fish by the tail, place the other hand under the abdomen to support it. Avoid taking the fish out of the water, holding it upside down by the tail or keeping it in areas where you have disturbed river sediment. When handling salmon, avoid any contact with the eyes or gills. After carefully removing the fly, position the salmon facing upstream and allow it to breathe naturally without moving it back and forth (which hinders the salmon s breathing mechanism). Water must be sucked in through the mouth and expelled through the gills by the pulsating movements of the gill covers. If the fly is too deeply embedded in the throat, it is best to simply cut the leader and leave the hook where it is. Sometimes recovery may take several minutes, notably after a long exhausting struggle. There is no set time to free the revived salmon; its increasing vigorous behaviour will indicate to you the right moment to let it go. If using a net to land salmon, use a knotless small mesh size net to prevent injuries to the eyes. The angler should manoeuvre the salmon towards the net which is held stationary, usually by someone else. This person should not chase after the salmon with the net. Take the salmon out of the net by grasping it by the tail and supporting it under the abdomen. Large salmon can also be supported horizontally over your forearm to prevent excessive pressure on its internal organs. If pictures are desired, keep the head of the salmon under water while making preparations. For posing, salmon can be held out of the water for less than five seconds without endangering its survival. Recent studies have shown that when done correctly, catch and release had little or no effect on the reproductive capacity of the freed salmon. With an average sized hen salmon weighing 10 pounds producing approximately 5,000 eggs, catch and release can make a significant contribution to salmon conservation. 46 of 66

51 Fisheries Enforcement A decline in the numbers of salmon returning to our rivers in recent years has resulted in an increasing focus on fisheries science (to identify problems) and management (to address the problems). At the same time illegal exploitation of salmon and sea trout (or poaching ) is still a significant issue. The proportion of a DSFB s annual budget available for enforcement has decreased, so there is a need to do more with less and to make the best use of available resources. A Ness DSFB water bailiff during a patrol on the River Garry TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT A DSFB may appoint persons to act as water bailiffs who are responsible for enforcing the provisions of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003 (SAFFA). Fisheries enforcement brings water bailiffs into direct contact with offenders and may require them to obtain personal details, seize items as evidence and in a worst-case scenario exercise powers of detention. They regularly work alone in remote areas and are involved in high risk, pre-planned enforcement operations with partner agencies such as Police Scotland. It is important that they are provided with the training and equipment required to allow them to discharge their duties in a safe, effective and professional manor. Before being issued with a Warrant of Appointment, all water bailiffs must pass an Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM) exam covering Scottish fisheries legislation, practical operations and court procedures. Ness DSFB water bailiffs also attend an annual Conflict Resolution and Handcuffing course with training providers Niton Ltd. The techniques covered on the course are in line with those currently taught to UK Police officers. Students are made aware of the range of options available during a hostile situation and on successfully completing the course are fully certified in court credible techniques. 47 of 66

52 Water bailiffs during the 2018 Conflict Resolution and Handcuffing course Over the last five years the Ness DSFB has invested in a range of new technologies to assist our water bailiffs in the safe detection and prosecution of illegal fishing activity. Trail cameras can be deployed at multiple vulnerable locations across the Ness District, providing a cost-effective way of extending the reach of our team. Camcorders and thermal imaging equipment allow the collection of evidence during the day or night. Ness DSFB water bailiffs were the first in Scotland to routinely wear body cameras. These have been proven to provide compelling evidence, and also lead to fewer hostile situations. A range of new technologies to assist our water bailiffs 48 of 66

53 No. of Offences Detected No. of Offences Detected No. of Offences Detected No. of Offences Detected 2018 Annual Report PARTNERSHIP WORKING The Ness DSFB continues to work in close partnership with Police Scotland wildlife crime officers. A number of joint patrols were carried out across the Ness district during the 2018 season. The purpose of these patrols was to deter illegal fishing activity and to engage with members of the angling community. Salmon poaching is one of the six national UK wildlife crime priorities and tackling those involved in it remains a priority for Police Scotland. By preventing the illegal exploitation of fish, we aim to maximise the numbers going on to successfully spawn. The Ness DSFB continues to represent Fisheries Management Scotland (FMS) on the Highland branch of the Partnership against Wildlife Crime (HPAW). Other partner organisations include Police Scotland, The Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Land and Estates, National Farmers Union Scotland and the Scottish Gamekeepers Association. Furthermore, the Ness DSFB has representation on the FMS Enforcement Committee and the Scottish Government Regulatory Enforcement Group. LATEST ENFORCEMENT STATISTICS The number of inland fisheries incidents detected across the freshwater reaches of the Ness District increased by 23 per cent on the previous year (from 82 in 2017 to 107 in 2018). This increase seemed to relate to individuals taking advantage of the prevailing low river levels. The majority involved fishing for salmon or sea trout without written right or permission. The number of out of season fishing incidents (particularly targeting brown trout) was down to a five year low following an increase in targeted deterrent patrols. Number of incidents of illegal fishing in the Ness Salmon District (2013 to 2018) Inland Fisheries Incidents Coastal Fisheries Incidents Year Year Out of Season Fishing Incidents Offences Reported to the Procurator Fiscal Year Year The number of coastal fisheries incidents detected across the marine or estuarine reaches of the Ness District during the season decreased by 48 per cent between 2017 (23 incidents) and 2018 (12 incidents) following an increase in targeted deterrent patrols. The incidents related to individuals fishing for sea trout without legal right or written permission. The number of offences reported by the Ness DSFB to the Procurator Fiscal in 2018 (rather than the individual receiving a verbal or notebook warning) was the lowest for the study period, with all the incidents taking place in the neighbouring Beauly district. 49 of 66

54 Fisheries Development Fishing effort on the Ness system has been in decline for a number of years. This is thought to be due to a combination of factors, not least declining catches making the Ness system seem like a less popular angling destination. The fewer the rods fishing, the lower the annual catch is likely to be. This has the knock on effect of further discouraging anglers from fishing, i.e. it becomes a vicious circle. It is therefore vitally important that measures are taken to break the circle by promoting the Ness system as a premier salmon fishing destination and encouraging more rods of all ages on the river. SCOTTISH ANGLING NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (SANDS) Fisheries Management Scotland (FMS) and Countryside Learning Scotland have come together to provide a national approach to sustaining angling and all its social, economic and environmental benefits. The strategic objectives of SANDS are as follows: Create and sustain a trained volunteer base to support the delivery of the programme locally; Provide support to participating DSFBs and Trusts on setting up, delivery and funding a sustainable, realistic local development structure suitable for their resources, geography, demographics etc; Build a communication structure between FMS, the DSFBs/Trusts and external partners on a regular basis to share good and bad practice and ensure working within the national development plan; and Collaborate with FMS to ensure the strategy is promoted locally and nationally and ongoing funding is secured. Local delivery objectives will include auditing current resources and activities within the catchment, creating an achievable local delivery plan considering the audit results, create and sustain a network of trained volunteers to support the plan and to begin the delivery of the development plan. We attended an excellent regional meeting in September 2018 and subsequently signed up to the project. Scottish Angling National Development Strategy meeting in Bonar Bridge on the 5 th September of 66

55 SSE SUSTAINABILITY FUND In 2013 SSE launched its Sustainable Development Fund; a regional fund operating across local authority areas where SSE has developed a new wind farm since In the first four years it has granted awards of over 3.9m to 104 projects. The fund supports projects which take a longer-term view by delivering transformational social, economic and/or environmental changes in the community and develop sustainable ventures for the future. The fund has three key priority areas: Creating opportunities: Enhancing opportunities for education and employment through activities that develop skills and improve an individual s chance of entering the workplace; Empowering Communities: Empowering communities to become more resilient and protect vulnerable residents; Sustainable places: Stimulating meaningful regeneration to make a lasting difference to the places we live, work and visit. Representatives from the Ness DSFB, Cromarty DSFB, UHI Inverness College and SSE Hydro recently met with representatives from the Sustainability Development Fund to discuss the potential for a Moray Firth Fisheries Development Project bid. This would coverage a number of catchments and link to fisheries management, education and work place apprenticeships. SUPPORT FOR INVERNESS ANGLING CLUB Inverness Angling Club (IAC) were awarded a cheque for 2,500 from the Ness DSFB on the 11 th January 2018 in recognition of the significant contribution they make to the promotion of angling for all in the Inverness area. It is hoped that this second and final year of support (totalling 5,000) will help to ensure the continued provision of affordable and accessible salmon fishing. Graham Mackenzie (President) and other IAC Committee Members receiving the cheque from Chris Conroy on Behalf of the Ness DSFB 51 of 66

56 The Ness DSFB and NBFT were invited to give an electrofishing demonstration at the IAC lady s charity fishing event on the River Ness in association with Fishpal and Anne Woodcock in aid of the Highland Hospice. This was an excellent event for a very worthwhile cause. Electrofishing demonstration at the IAC lady s charity fishing event on the River Ness EDUCATION The NBFT are very active in terms of environmental education in local schools. This year they delivered classroom visits to Inshes Primary School (two classes from Primary 3, two classes from Primary 6 and the Nursery class). Topics included the lifecycle of the trout and salmon, invertebrates, endangered species and invasive non-native species. The Ness DSFB and NBFT also gave a joint electrofishing demonstration at Abriachan Community Woodland to pupils from Farr Primary School. The fishery trust has also been busy working with Developing the Young workforce (DYW) with the Inverness chamber of commerce. DYW forms part of the Scottish Government s youth employment strategy, aimed at improving career and learning opportunities for our young people. The strategy recommends the creation of employer led groups to develop a culture of real partnership between employers and education. This has led to the delivery of educational and careers talks at Charleston and Culloden Academies. Invitations have also been received from Millburn Academy and Glen Urquhart High School to deliver educational programmes. The NBFT delivered a presentation to the Millburn Academy fourth years on indicator and invasive species. This was followed by a field trip to the Rosemarkie Burn where pupils were shown various survey techniques including habitat, invertebrate and fish population surveys used to assess the health of the burn. In addition, the NBFT has been asked to assist in projects which will count towards national qualifications in the current Curriculum. 52 of 66

57 Millburn Academy fourth years during a field trip to the Rosemarkie Burn MEDIA PROMOTION The Ness DSFB has continued to promote the Ness district salmon fishery and engage with anglers and the wider public by means of traditional press releases. These have achieved Scottish, UK national and international coverage. For example. the Ness DSFB and NBFT featured in the latest series of STV s Turas a Bhradain (Journey of the Salmon) programme which included an episode on the River Ness An increasing number of posts, photographs and videos have also been uploaded via social media. The Ness DSFB s Facebook Page ( currently has 11,215 follows (up from 9,324 in 2017 and by far the highest of any DSFB). The Ness Board Twitter page ( currently has 2,050 followers (up from 1,084 in 2017) and we have Tweeted a total of 2,684 posts. our Instagram account ( has 1,343 followers (up from 435 in 2017) and have uploaded a total of 973 posts; consisting mainly of photographs of the fish, catches, personalities and landscape of the Ness district. 53 of 66

58 Compliance with Good Governance Obligations Statutory good governance obligations are placed on district salmon fishery boards as defined in law by section 46 of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act They comprise the original obligations placed on boards by the 2003 Act together with those introduced through amendments of the 2003 Act by the Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Act 2013 which came into force on the 16 th September The purpose of the obligations is to enhance openness, transparency and accountability of the management of salmon fisheries by district salmon fishery boards. They bring together existing best practice to ensure that all boards act in a manner consistent with bodies operating in the public sphere. Key activities covered by these obligations include: Annual reports and accounts; Meetings of the board; Complaints procedures; and Register of member s interests. This section of the report demonstrates how we have complied with each of the key obligations since the coming into force of the Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Act 2013 on the 16 th September We will continue to follow the advice and guidance produced by both the Scottish Government and Fisheries Management Scotland over the coming year to ensure continued compliance with our good governance obligations. ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS This annual report including accounts to the year ending 15 th May 2018 will be published on the Publications page of our website ( together with those for previous years. Hard copies will also be available from the clerk of the board on request. MEETINGS 2017 Annual Meeting of Qualified Proprietors The 2017 annual meeting of qualified proprietors took place on the 14 th December This was publicised on the 14 th November 2017 via our website, Facebook page, Twitter feed, written notice to qualified proprietors and by advertisement in Graham s Tackle Shop in Inverness. Notification of the meeting was also ed to the Scottish Ministers on the same date. Seven board members (from a total of eleven) and six non-voting attendees were present (no public observers attended). The minutes of the meeting can be viewed on the Publications page of our website and were sent to Scottish ministers on the 10 th June 2018 (following approval at our March 2018 board meeting). The 2017 annual report and accounts to year ending 15 th May 2017 were approved and subsequently published on our website and submitted to Scottish ministers on the 8 th January Annual Public Meeting An annual public meeting was held on the 18 th January 2018, with the primary purpose of presenting the agreed and finalised annual report and accounts to the wider public. This was publicised on the 15 th December 54 of 66

59 2017 via our website, Facebook page, Twitter feed, written notice to qualified proprietors and by advertisement in Graham s Tackle Shop in Inverness. Notification of the meeting was also ed to Scottish ministers on the same date. The notice publicising the meeting invited interested parties to suggest items for discussion. No requests of matters for consideration at the meeting were received. The public meeting was attended by 27 individuals including local anglers from across the district, representatives from Inverness Angling Club, Glenmoriston Estate, Mackenzie Fly Fishing, Scottish Natural Heritage, Ness Castle Fishery, UHI Inverness College, The Scottish Ghillie, Grahams of Inverness, Ness Castle Fishery and the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust. Attendees at the Ness DSFB 2016 Annual Public Meeting held in Inverness on the 19th January 2017 In the absence of Michael Martin (Chairman of the NDSFB), board member Neil Cameron gave a brief welcome and introduction to the 2017 Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 15 th May He thanked each of the sponsors CBEC Ecoengineering, Ness Castle Lodges and Strutt and Parker, without whom the highquality print productions would not have been possible. Two presentations were then given as follows: A Year in Review (Chris Conroy Director, NDSFB) - Chris gave a presentation providing an overview of the key activities carried out by the Board over the last year, together with those planned for the forthcoming year. Gone Fishing (Marina Gibson Well known angling personality and Atlantic Salmon Trust Ambassador) - Guest speaker Marina Gibson talked about her role as an Atlantic Salmon Trust Ambassador and about her role in promoting women s fishing and her own passion for fishing. 55 of 66

60 A question and answer session followed the presentations. The minutes of the meeting can be viewed on the Publications page of our website ( and were sent to Scottish ministers on the 10 th June 2018 (following approval at our March 2018 board meeting). Ordinary Board Meetings Ordinary board meetings were advertised on the News page of our website ( with the public being invited to attend. These were held on the 15 th March, 14 th June and the 13 th September The minutes of each of these meetings can be viewed on the Publications page of our website Annual Meeting of Qualified Proprietors A further ordinary board meeting will follow the 2018 annual meeting of qualified proprietors, which will take place on the 13 th December This was publicised on the 13 th November 2018 via our website, Facebook page, Twitter feed and written notice to qualified proprietors. Notification was sent to Scottish ministers on the same date. COMPLAINTS The board has set up and maintains a complaints procedure which can be viewed on the Good Governance page of our website ( This procedure was first produced on the 28 th August 2013 and approved at the board meeting on the 19 th September It has since undergone three iterations, with the latest version 1.3 published on the 5 th December During the last 12 months the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board has received no official complaints. MEMBERS INTERESTS The register of members interests can be viewed on the Good Governance page of our website ( We have included a standing item at each board meeting inviting board members to declare new or amend existing interests. All such instances are recorded in the minutes of these meetings, with the latest version 4.5 of the register published on the 22 nd November 2017 and a copy sent to Scottish ministers on the same date. FORTHCOMING MEETINGS The provisional dates of forthcoming board meeting are as follows. Please note that these may be subject to change, with notification of the final dates being posted on our website and circulated to proprietors at least 21 days prior to the meeting. 17 th January annual public meeting 14 th March 2019 board meeting 13 th June 2019 board meeting 12 th September 2019 triennial elections and board meeting 12 th December annual meeting of qualified proprietors and board meeting The Ness DSFB invites the public to attend all of its meetings. However, certain items of business may be held in private. Please note that the legislation only makes provisions for members of the public to propose matters for consideration and speak at the annual public meeting. However, the Ness DSFB may at its own discretion wish to give interested parties the right to do so at other meetings. 56 of 66

61 Key Priorities for the Forthcoming Year In addition to the delivery of its core objectives in relation to fisheries monitoring, management and enforcement, the board proposes to progress the following key objectives over the coming year: Prepare a new Ness District Fisheries Management Plan ( ) in collaboration with the NBFT to facilitate the: o o o Maintenance of or improvement in the density and distribution of juvenile salmon; Stabilisation or enhancement of the number of returning adult salmon and sea trout; and An increase in the socio-economic value of fisheries within the Ness district. Support the promotion and development of salmon fisheries in the Ness district, by: o o o o Engaging in the Scottish Angling National Development Strategy, including auditing current activities and creating an achievable local delivery plan; Working in partnership with SSE Hydro, the Cromarty DSFB and UHI Inverness College to develop a Moray Firth Fisheries Development Project ; Continuing to promote the Ness district via the Ness DSFB website and social media platforms; Exploring the potential for the funding and production of a short film to showcase angling opportunities on the Ness system and the work of the DSFB and Trust. Ensure the delivery of on-going projects, including: o o o The Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project; The Garry Dam Screens Project; and The Missing Salmon Project. Efficiently and effectively manage the board, through: o o o o o Full compliance with all statutes including the new good governance requirements; Compliance with the FMS Code of Governance for DSFBs; Provision of efficient administration; Ensuring sound financial control and exploring opportunities for new funding streams; and Being a good employer. Work in close partnership with and financially support the NBFT to help ensure: o o o The conservation and maintenance of the diversity of salmon and sea trout populations in the Ness system and to conserve their aquatic environment; The collection of accurate, adequate and up-to-date information on the status of fish stocks, their habitats and exploitation to facilitate an evidence-based approach to fisheries management; and Education of the public and any association, company, local authority, administrative, or governmental agency or public body or representative body. 57 of 66

62 Financial Summary CHAIRMAN S FOREWORD The accounts for the year ended 15 May 2018 are included in this section of the report and show a net deficit of 22,473. The Ness DSFB had actually budgeted for a loss of 50,880, but not achieved this due to a continued underspend on the Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project genetic analysis. With expenditure exceeding income in recent years, savings in the order of 40,000 have been applied to the 2018/19 budget. This has put a significant strain on already limited Ness DSFB resources at a time when salmon populations are particularly vulnerable. The reduced team has stepped up and continued to deliver what we believe to be an effective service across the system, however there are no further savings to be made within the budget. Michael Martin Chairman 58 of 66

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