Last night, I had the privilege of attending the presentation of the long-awaited DNA study findings on hatchery salmon in the Carron River, Wester Ross. This study, led by scientist Bob Kindness, with crucial DNA analysis by Dr. Victoria Prichard of UHI Inverness, provides compelling evidence of the effectiveness of carefully managed hatchery programs.
Bob’s presentation, combined with that of Dr Victoria Prichard, a environmental biologist specialising in DNA at UHI at Inverness, led to a fascinating, but personally, melancholic presentation as I knew these efforts should have been initiated 30 years ago. Interestingly, the results align exactly with what the late Peter Grey advocated on the Tyne. The presentations were insightful, though personally, tinged with a sense of regret. The results confirm what many of us have long advocated, echoing the pioneering work of the late Peter Grey from the Tyne. It's disheartening to consider that Peter's findings, now unequivocally supported by scientific data, could have been realised decades ago.
Thankfully, the dedication of individuals like Bob Kindness and Dr. Prichard, who prioritise practical experiment alongside rigorous scientific methodology, has yielded invaluable data for fisheries management. Their work provides a robust foundation for future informed decision-making.
It's concerning that representatives from Marine Scotland [Marine Directorate] and the broader scientific community were not present last night as more than most, they should know that more collaborative approach, drawing on the insights of those with "proven expertise", is essential for the future of salmon conservation and angling. The success of similar programs in Iceland demonstrates the potential for positive outcomes when informed by sound science and practical experience. And as Bob says, this need not be expensive.
While the Carron River study provides encouraging results, we must acknowledge that replicating this success across all Scottish rivers presents significant challenges. Throughout my career, I've observed that effective stocking programs are driven by much more than just scientific knowledge; proper ones require exceptional dedication, a profound understanding of the specific river ecosystem and an unerring will for the project to succeed. Individuals like Bob Kindness, Peter Grey, and Throstur Eladison, whose work I've documented extensively, have this level of commitment in abundance. They approach their projects with a passion which always reminds me of how we all talk about our Children and Grandchildren. This is why it works!
Simply assigning hatchery management and scientific support to individuals lacking this level of dedication, has and always will, lead to less favorable results. My 30 years of observation have consistently demonstrated this. Although not a substitute for scientific rigor, passion is a required component for success.
Given his demonstrated expertise and unwavering commitment, Bob Kindness is uniquely qualified to advise the Scottish government on salmon stocking policies. This recommendation is made with the explicit understanding that the primary objective is to enhance salmon populations.
Strategic stocking practices, tailored to the specific challenges of each river, are essential for addressing issues like gravel movement, increased predation, and the potential impacts of aquaculture. The aquaculture industry's support for the Carron River study is a positive example of constructive dialogue between stakeholders. We have witnessed globally the detrimental consequences of communication breakdowns and biased or politically motivated actions.
It is important to understand that each river system needs to be evaluated independently and that the correct stocking practice is a tool that needs to be used in conjunction with other tools.
Dr. Prichard's presentation raised important considerations regarding the potential impacts of stocking on wild populations. However, the study also concluded that, with proper husbandry, stocked fish thrive, challenging previous assumptions. The key question is: what are our conservation goals?
Option 1: A robust salmon population, sustained through a combination of wild and carefully managed hatchery programs, tailored to the specific biology of each river.
Option 2: Restoring salmon populations in rivers where native fish have been lost, through strategic stocking.
Option 3: A "hands-off" approach, prioritising natural recovery, tree planting, beaver introductions, which we know will result in slower salmon recovery and possibly sthe cessation of angling.
The report provide conclusive evidence that hatchery juveniles consistently survive the rigours of the ocean and in some years make up 50% of he catch on the Carron river. importantly it also provides important insights into ecologically sound methods for mitigating population decline and, in some cases, restoring the DNA integrity of the wild population.
While some may have dismissed the potential of hatchery programs, this study demonstrates their viability and cost-effectiveness. It is crucial that future conservation efforts are guided by evidence-based approaches and a spirit of collaboration.
How do I see this developing -
Looking forward, it is imperative that the Scottish government and relevant agencies prioritise the insights gained from this research. The expertise of individuals such as Bob Kindness should be central to informing policy and legislation. The wonderful work on DNA carried out by Dr Prichard and her team needs to continue and properly helped through funding. If anyone has some ideas for this I'd be very interested in hearing. The teams work has been paramount to the success of this and I know will bring much more to the table.
Ultimately, the goal must be the sustainable recovery of salmon populations in our rivers.
For those wishing to read. Here are the relevant links
Excellent article, Ian, this is the only way forward but Marine Scotland and the Scottish Government are not interested; they are in thrall to the multinational fish farms, as are their tame scientists who will produce the results wanted by those paying their grants.
The King is an angler with an appreciation of the countryside and those who make it work, he may be the only person of stature able to push this past the politicians.
Drop him a line, Ian, sign him up to your blog, anything is worth trying at this stage.
Richard.
A long with my Son we both had the pleasure of spending time on the Carron .On what hoped for was a days fishing , but with horrendous weather and heavy rushing water we spent a time with Bob in the comfort of his Pick up. A brilliant discussion on where he was at with the Carron and for the future of the Atlantic Salmon in Scotland .From his rearing and taging of smolts , this was a man I could see was totally into the protection and saving of the Salmon in our rivers and the way forward . We both listened to a fantastic indepth stats on the Salmon, I have put over my time listening to Bob…
Ian, what a great article ! It’s so sad that our late friend Peter wasn’t wearing the correct school tie when publishing his findings on the use of intelligently run hatcheries! All those years back . Lets push for this scientifically backed study to be seriously considered across the U.K. Graham 👍
God this is the future for salmon fisheries.
Why o why does the Scottish government not see this.