Chemical spill wipes out salmon and birds on River Spey tributary
Chemical spill wipes out salmon and birds on River Spey tributary
A chemical spill devastates a two-kilometre stretch of the Knockando burn, killing salmon, eels and birds as investigators probe the pollution.
A chemical spill has devastated a two-kilometre stretch of the Knockando burn, which feeds into the River Spey, wiping out fish populations and wildlife along its banks. The incident has left fly fishers and local residents stunned as the burn’s ecosystem appears to have been severely damaged. Officials say the spill has caused significant ecological harm, with seabirds and other wildlife affected as the poisoned water flows toward the main river.
Fly fishers report the salmon population in the burn has been wiped out in the affected section, an impact that could take years to recover and affect local angling opportunities. The abrupt disruption to the habitat also raises concerns about the long-term health of the river system and its surrounding environment.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is investigating the potential pollution and has begun sampling water and assessing the extent of contamination. While authorities work to identify the source and prevent further damage, residents and wildlife groups are calling for clear accountability and a robust cleanup plan to restore the burn and protect the wider River Spey area.
Local communities are urging swift action to prevent future spills and to support any restoration efforts, highlighting the importance of safeguarding Scotland’s precious freshwater ecosystems for both wildlife and people who rely on them for recreation and livelihoods.
