Freshwater

LINK’s Freshwater Group aims to promote good management of activities in our lochs, rivers and wetlands

LINK’s Freshwater Group aims to promote good management of activities in our lochs, rivers and wetlands. The condition of freshwater has major implications for our biodiversity, health, enjoyment of the countryside and economy.

Convener

Craig Macadam, Buglife

Staff liaison

Juliet Caldwell

Latest News

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Scotland urged to act now to restore its rivers and lochs: new report sets agenda for next River Basin Plan

03 Nov 2025

Scottish Environment LINK has today launched a new report, Restoring Scotland’s Waters, calling on the Scottish government to take urgent action to protect and restore Scotland’s rivers, lochs, wetlands and coastal waters ahead of its next River Basin Management Plan due in December 2027.

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The Importance of Freshwater Ecosystems

13 Dec 2022

The new Scottish Biodiversity Strategy offers a significant opportunity to restore Scotland’s ecosystems and reverse species declines. Our natural environment is in crisis, and we urgently need an ambitious new strategy with clear targets. Freshwater ecosystems are essential for biodiversity, providing habitat for a wide array of aquatic species while also helping to reduce the […]

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Set Scotland’s rivers free

12 Jul 2022

Scotland is renowned for its rivers and lochs. Our freshwaters provide a home to iconic species such as Atlantic Salmon and Freshwater Pearl Mussels. They provide drinking water, and are used to generate electricity. They support game fisheries, and are essential for the production of food and drinks, including whisky. Freshwaters are important for our […]

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