Fisheries Management Scotland welcomes the publication of the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and Delivery Plan. The strategy which, features over 100 actions, sets out ambition for Scotland to be Nature Positive by 2030, and to have restored and regenerated biodiversity across the country by 2045.

We are pleased to see the linkages in the strategy to the Wild Salmon Strategy and specific actions to help address the challenges facing wild Atlantic salmon as part of the wider biodiversity crisis.

Statutory Nature Restoration Targets 
The commitment to introduce statutory nature restoration targets through the upcoming Natural Environment Bill is a significant and welcome step. This legislative framework promises to drive meaningful action, and we hope to see river catchments as a foundation for building these targets.

Ecosystem Restoration 
We welcome recognition in the strategy of landscape-scale river restoration as a tool to restore Scotland’s biodiversity. The River Muick Restoration Project, delivered by our members the River Dee Trust and Dee District Salmon Fishery Board is highlighted as a case study in the strategy and we are pleased to see river catchment recovery highlighted as one of the range of key outcomes.

Deer Management 
We welcome the ambitious plan to reduce deer densities and sustainably manage grazing, which will enhance ecosystem health and create space for woodland recovery. Restoring riparian woodlands is critical to improving freshwater habitats, offering shade and refuge for Atlantic salmon, and we hope to see riparian woodland prioritised in this effort.

30 x 30 
The commitment to protect and manage at least 30% of Scotland’s land, freshwater, and seas by 2030 represents an exciting milestone. However, nature recovery must reach every corner of Scotland’s landscapes and waterways, and we welcome Scottish Government’s commitment to protect nature across and beyond protected areas.

Nature Finance 
The plan’s focus on developing a values-led high-integrity natural capital market is another step forward. FMS supports mechanisms that enable responsible private investment in biodiversity while delivering tangible benefits to local communities. FMS looks forward to the forthcoming Biodiversity Investment Plan and continuing to play our part to bolster developments in nature markets.

Alan Wells, Chief Executive of Fisheries Management Scotland, said “Actions in the Delivery Plan align with our priorities to ensure free access to cold, clean water for Atlantic salmon and adopt a catchment-based approach to restoring the habitats they depend on. Achieving these targets will require collective effort, and we look forward to working in partnership with our members, the Scottish Government, agencies, industry, and other stakeholders to turn these commitments into action.”